Page 39 of Empowered By the Earl (Second Sons of London 3)

He brushed a tender kiss to her brow. “I think we have had enough lessons, whether it be riding or flirting or kissing. You are ready for this house party, Louisa. Do not compromise on what you want. If no man in attendance captures your fancy, you wait until one does, is that understood?”

She nodded, still looking slightly befuddled.

“Come, let us get you back to Cliffside.”

He helped her to her feet and took her to the stables. They rode to Cliffside in silence and when they arrived at the stables, he helped her from Fancy’s back.

“I won’t come calling again until Spence and Tessa arrive. I’m sure you have a lot to think about. Learn what you can from Adalyn regarding the gentlemen invited.”

Louisa nodded. “I will.” She searched his face a moment and then placed a hand on his forearm. “Thank you, Owen.”

“For what?”

“For making me feel like a woman. For making me feel I can be desirable. For helping me to understand that I shouldn’t compromise when it comes to choosing a husband.”

“You’re welcome,” he said softly.

She squeezed his arm and let her hand drop. He mounted Galahad and gave her a wave as he galloped from the yard.

Owen wondered if he would be able to watch another man court Louisa—without beating him to a bloody pulp.

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