Page 41 of If the Duke Dares
“Probably only to me. It’s just…the idea of a duke making a pronouncement like that… It struck me as terribly amusing. Particularly since it would bother them so much. They want nothing more than to elevate their position.” And replenish their coffers, but she wouldn’t say so. If her family became known for seeking a fortune, it would be even more difficult for her or Pandora to wed.
But if Pandora were already ruined, that wouldn’t matter. Persephone sent up a silent prayer that the scandal was minimal.
Acton angled himself toward her. “What do you think they’ll do once they learn you’re in Bath with your aunt? Is that your mother’s or father’s sister?”
“My father’s sister, and I’m not sure what my parents will do. I suppose they’ll try to convince me to marry you. It may be best for everyone if you sent a letter to them indicating you are not interested in making me your duchess.”
His brows drew together. “If that’s what you want.”
“It is, thank you.” Why did he seem hesitant? “Do you have any other ideas?”
He shook his head. “I don’t, no. I’m sorry it has come to this for you. I’m still unclear as to why they just won’t let you choose a husband.”
“That, ah, hasn’t been an option.”
“What do you mean?”
“I’ve had three Seasons in Bath and no offers of marriage. It’s not as ifIcan propose.”
His eyes rounded. “How can that be?ThreeSeasons and you aren’t married?”
She grimaced. “Ow. That stings a little.”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to say it like that. What I meant was I can’t believe you didn’t have multiple marriage proposals. You’re clever and funny, resourceful too. And you’re certainly beautiful.”
“No one has ever described me that way,” she said quietly, fidgeting with her fingers and then flattening her palms against her lap.
“No one? I can’t imagine why that would be.” He sounded bewildered.
“The bump in my nose is wholly unattractive, and my hair can be…lackluster.”
“Your hair is splendid, and that bump is incredibly enticing.” Now he sounded defensive. Bless him.
“That’s something my sister would say.”
“Your sister is very smart. I think I’ll like her.”
Persephone didn’t think he’d get the chance. It was best for everyone if Pandora didn’t meet one of Bane’s friends.
Acton yawned suddenly. He clapped his hand over his mouth and sent her a sheepish look.
“You must be exhausted,” she said. “I am tired, but I have to think I got more rest than you last night. Why don’t you take a nap?”
“But what if you fall asleep? I don’t want to miss any of your talking.”
“Did I talk last night?” she asked.
“Not that I heard.”
“Well, I doubt I will sleep anyway. The last time I fell asleep in a coach, I found myself in the wrong place,” she said wryly. “Granted, I had climbed into the wrong coach, but I would have noticed my mistake sooner and got out at an earlier stop.”
“I am so sorry about that.” He looked at her with open admiration. “Not just resourceful, but unyielding in your determination.”
Persephone could get used to his compliments. And his care.
He leaned into the corner of the coach and closed his eyes, folding his arms over his chest. She would try not to watch him too closely as he slept, but it would be difficult. He was so very handsome. She realized his facial features were usually quite animated. To view him in repose was to see a different side of him. Her fingers itched to trace the angle of his cheekbone, the line of his jaw, the curve of his lips. Instead, she just stared. Then forced herself to look out the window lest he wake up suddenly and catch her enthralled.
How could she be enthralled with a man such as he? She was simply amazed that a duke had not only shown her interest but seemed to like her and find her…attractive. But then he seemed to find all women alluring. Or so it seemed. Was she really any different to him?
