Page 56 of Devoted to the Duke (The St. Clairs 1)

“At least you don’t have to worry about being paraded about the Marriage Mart. Not many women can say they managed to land a husband the day the Season begins.”

His words shocked her. “I beg your pardon?”

Stanley studied her a moment. “I see I’ve spoken out of turn. Forgive me, Lady Catherine.” He rose.

She did the same and placed a hand on his forearm. “Please, don’t leave. Tell me what you mean.”

He indicated for her to sit and she did. He took his seat and leaned close. “I’m sure he will say something to you soon. Do me a favor and act surprised if you can.” He hesitated. “Everton told me he planned to marry you. That’s how he chased me away earlier.”

Catherine gripped the table’s edge. Nausea swelled within her. She grew woozy.

And then she fainted.

*

Jeremy laughed atsomething his companion said. He couldn’t remember her name, only that it was her second Season, so she wasn’t as green as a few of the other women he’d danced with. He’d actually enjoyed dancing with her and she’d been quite pleasant over supper.

But she was no Catherine Crawford.

Fresh hurt oozed through him as he wondered why Catherine had pushed him away. She had a kind heart so her cutting remark had seemed totally out of character. He’d sensed the spark still between them and she’d admitted she’d thought about him as he had her.

What action drove her to push him away as she had?

He’d positioned himself at a table so he could see her and Aubrey, her supper companion, taming the jealousy he felt against his old friend. He watched them surreptitiously while still actively participating in conversation at this table. Some influential people of thetonsat here and he still wanted to win his way back into their good graces.

The blond touched his forearm gently. “If you will excuse me, Your Grace, I wish to visit the retiring room.”

“Of course.”

He rose and helped her from her seat. Two other young ladies at the table accompanied her.

After she left, he turned to his right, where Countess Lieven sat. He’d greeted her when he’d first sat but he’d been occupied by those across and seated to his left.

“You seem to be enjoying yourself, Everton.”

“Yes, I am.” He glanced over and saw Catherine smiling at something Aubrey said.

“I see you’re keeping your eye on Lady Catherine Crawford.”

He cut his eyes back to his companion. “Is it that obvious?”

Her tinkling laughter sounded. “Not to a casual observer. Most here are too busy with those around them to notice.”

“Except you.”

She nodded. “Except me. It’s a particular talent of mine. I know I helped you once before.”

“And I am most grateful for that, Countess.”

“I noticed you danced with her twice in a row. So did others.”

When he didn’t reply, she said, “I approve. Of you and Lady Catherine. She has an air about her. It would be well worth your time to pursue her.”

He frowned. “I can’t. The lady informed me earlier this evening that she has no interest in me.”

Countess Lieven clucked her tongue. “Then persuade her, Everton. You can be most charming when you choose to be.”

“I’m no longer interested in her either,” he lied.

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