Page 62 of Seducing Sophia (Scholars of Seduction)

“Adelia, are you all right?” Sophia asked.

Adelia’s smile returned. “Yes, of course,” she said. “Sometimes I have bouts of melancholy over my situation—rather pathetic, I’ll admit—which is why I must busy myself with occupation.” She gestured toward the bouquet. “Shall I sketch the roses? If you’re free this morning, I could paint a portrait of you holding them. It seems a shame that such a fine gift will wither and fade into obscurity.”

“Very well,” Sophia said. “Henry is helping Maria with her pugs for the remainder of the morning. If you wish to render these roses—and me—immortal, using your talents with a paintbrush, I’ll be happy to oblige.”

“Stay there,” Adelia said. “Your position in that chair is perfect. I’ll fetch my paint box.” The light returned to Adelia’s eyes and she leaped to her feet and dashed out of the room, leaving Sophia with her thoughts—and his gift.

What was worse—to risk giving him another chance, or to suffer the pain of abandonment that Adelia had endured?

What had Adelia said?

Trust your instincts.

And Sophia’s instincts told her that Adrian was a good man.

Perhaps it was time to listen to her heart, rather than her head.

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