Page 13 of Debating with the Duke (Second Sons of London 2)

This was madness. She hadn’t thought looks were important at all and therefore hadn’t put it on her list. But all she could think about was Camden’s looks. His broad shoulders. How well his coat fit him. How the tight breeches he wore emphasized his muscular legs.

It was frustrating to now realize that she was only attracted to his looks and nothing else about him. He was judgmental. Taciturn.

Most important, however, was that his interest had turned to Louisa.

Swallowing the bitterness that threatened to escape, she said, “Let him call. See if your opinion of him changes. If an opportunity arises to kiss him, take it.”

“Take it!” Louisa cried in horror. “How can you say that, Adalyn? We have only met him this evening.”

“He would not be Spencer’s longtime friend if something was wrong with him. You know how Tessa has always been a good judge of character. Give him a chance, Louisa. Then if he isn’t for you, he isn’t. There will be plenty of gentlemen for you to look at this Season.”

Looking glum, her cousin said, “I haven’t even spoken to Papa about wanting to find a husband. Something tells me that he will not approve.”

“Iwill set Uncle Edgar right on this matter if I must,” Adalyn said confidently. “He has had you long enough. It is time you lived for yourself.” She reached for Louisa’s hand and squeezed it.

Glancing across at Bridget, Adalyn saw her maid nod in approval.

“Let me say something to him first,” Louisa said. “I will have to let him know the duke is coming to call tomorrow.” She paused. “Would you come over and be there when he arrives, Adalyn? Then I might not be so frightened.”

“You? Frightened? Not in a thousand years, Louisa. Besides, I don’t think it’s a good idea that I am there.”

“Why?”

Because I would want to kiss the duke myself.

“He wants to visit with you. Not me. I found him a bit boring though perfectly nice and I think he believes I am too outspoken.”

“Because you are?” Louisa said, grinning.

“Perhaps.”

The carriage came to a stop and the footman opened the door.

“I will talk to Papa tomorrow morning,” Louisa promised. “I will send for you if reinforcements are required.”

“I will be happy to speak with Uncle Edgar regarding your future but I have no intention of staying and interrupting your time with His Grace. I will be long gone before he arrives.”

She kissed her cousin’s cheek and Louisa exited the carriage.

Once the door closed, Bridget said, “It’s about time that girl wed. Sir Edgar has been selfish keeping her to himself.”

Adalyn chuckled, thinking her maid as outspoken as herself.

And wondered what the Duke of Camden would make of them both.

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