Page 67 of A Dangerous Lord (Regency Spies & Secrets 3)

“I will,” Jane replied, “but it won’t change the fact that I consider Lord Brinton a friend, and nothing more.”

Her mother shifted to face her. “What are your reservations towards Lord Brinton?”

Jane shook her head. “I do not wish to continue this conversation.”

“Whyever not?” her mother pressed.

Jane placed the book next to her on the settee. “May we please discuss something else?” she asked. “The weather, perhaps?”

Madalene laughed. “I daresay we may have pushed Jane too far.”

Fortunately, Pratt walked into the room and met Jane’s gaze. “Lord Brinton is here to call upon you, milady,” he announced. “May I show him in?”

Jane rose and smoothed out her pale pink gown. “Yes, please show him in.” She turned her attention to the group. “I want you all to behave.”

Before they could respond, Percy walked into the room wearing a blue jacket, a maroon waistcoat, and buff trousers. He had an infectious smile on his face, which caused her to smile in response.

She dropped into a curtsy. “Lord Brinton,” she greeted. “It is a pleasure to see you.”

He stopped a short distance from her and bowed. “Enchanted, Lady Jane.” He then turned to the other ladies and greeted them politely.

“Shall we depart?” Jane asked.

Percy lifted his brow, but thankfully didn’t comment. “The carriage awaits, my lady,” he said, offering his arm.

As they walked out of the drawing room, Jane leaned closer and whispered, “You must think me terribly forward, but I fear that my family might make me go mad.”

He chuckled. “Surely it can’t be that bad.”

“I assure you, it is,” she replied.

Pratt met them at the front door and opened it wide. Percy led her towards a curricle and assisted her as she climbed in.

“Pray tell, what was so terrible that you wanted to flee from your own family?” Percy asked as they exited the gate.

“They were discussing my future,” she responded vaguely.

“I see,” Percy replied. “That can be a rather difficult conversation to have, with anyone.”

“True,” Jane agreed. “My mother can’t seem to understand that I am happy being alone.”

“Are you happy?”

“I am.”

Percy gave her an approving nod. “That’s good. One’s worth should not be dependent on another.”

“Well said, Percy.”

“I enjoy hearing my name on your lips,” he remarked, glancing over at her.

“It is just a name,” she contended.

“Have you had a chance to consider my offer?”

She clasped her hands in her lap. “I have, and I think it would be best if we remained friends.”

“Ah,” he replied. “I see it will be much more difficult than I anticipated to win you over, but it will be worth it in the end.”

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