Page 77 of A Scandalous Proposition
‘Where are we going?’
‘I want to talk to you.’ He looked down at her, nervous now the moment had arrived and unsure about his reception. ‘I have something to tell you.’
She offered him a sunny smile that revealed none of her inner thoughts. ‘This all sounds remarkably mysterious.’
Adam opened the door and ushered her inside ahead of him.
‘It looks different in daylight,’ she said, giggling.
Adam resisted the urge to kiss her. It was an urge that had been growing in strength since the events at Langstone Harbour, where she had displayed such feisty courage. But they had not had any time alone since then. He seated her and took the chair opposite, just in case he couldn’t resist touching her. What he had to say required no such distractions.
‘James and I had a long discussion this morning, and he has offered me a free hand to run the estate.’
Her face brightened. ‘But that’s good, isn’t it?’
‘It is what I’ve always wanted.’
‘But how can you do that and remain with your regiment?’
He stood and paced to the western window, his back towards her, his shoulders rigid with tension. ‘James has also decided against marrying again so it will be up to me to sire the next heir.’
‘Oh. He’s placing a vast amount of responsibility on your shoulders, but if he’s unwell he can’t help that, I suppose.’
‘I have always been aware that it might come to this one day.’
‘How will you manage it? You have to return to your regiment soon.’
‘I shall have to resign my commission and dedicate myself to the Court. I can’t see any alternative to that.’
‘It does seem to be the only way.’ She tilted her head and sent him a considering look. ‘Shall you miss soldiering?’
‘In some respects. But there’s a greater need for me here.’
‘And greater need still for you to find a wife. You ought to launch yourself upon thetonas soon as the season commences, and set about finding someone suitable before all the best candidates are snapped up.’
‘There’s no need for that.’ He was still staring at the view without seeing it, discouraged by her willingness to throw him into the path of other ladies.
‘Really?’
He glanced over his shoulder, positive he’d detected a slight catch in her otherwise bright tone. But her face gave nothing away, so he returned his attention to the view. It was safer that way. ‘No, I’ve already selected the lady I wish to marry.’
‘Am I acquainted with her?’
‘Intimately.’ He turned to look directly at her and smiled in a manner that ought to tell her everything she needed to know.
‘Someone your mother would approve of?’
‘Indubitably.’ He took a long stride towards her.
‘Then I am glad. When may I wish you joy?’
‘As soon as you agree to become my wife.’
‘Me!’ Her expression was incredulous. She really had no idea. Astonishing! ‘But I couldn’t possibly marry you.’
‘Why ever not? I thought you had grown to like me just a little.’
‘I do, I lo—that’s to say, I will always be grateful for what you have done for me. But I can’t repay you by bringing the duchy into disrepute.’
