Page 22 of A Temporary Bride for the Duke
She swallowed audibly. “No, Your Grace. I remain unscathed. But I know better than to align myself with a scorpion like Dulforth. If I turn my back, I anticipate he will not hesitate to sting.”
His eyes narrowed. “Explain yourself. How have you come to know the likes of Baron Dulforth so well?”
“It is none of your business, Your Grace.”
“Well, I am making it my business. So, tell me.”
Daisy blinked at him, nonplussed by his interest. He did not seem the kind to enjoy gossiping, but she could think of no other reason why he’d be so insistent on hearing her story.
He took a step closer, looking her in the eye. “I insist upon hearing what you have to say. Speak, Lady Daisy, and I shall listen,” he said firmly, and she found herself compelled to obey.
She took a deep breath, feeling her cheeks heat with embarrassment. “Without going into too many details, it is imperative that I find a match for this Season, one who isnotDulforth, in order to enter this competition.” She gave him a significant look, hoping he would deduce for himself what she meant, so she didn’t have to say the words.
“Why?” he asked, much to her disappointment.
“Well, the short answer is that I am in need of the funds. I am a woman who comes with no dowry, and the sponsorship will assist me in finding a husband.”
“Hmm…” He hummed thoughtfully for a long moment.
She watched his face carefully. First, the right eyebrow arched, then as it dropped, the left took its place. His expression was not comical, per se, but it was rather entertaining to observe the way he meticulously mulled over her words and considered his own before speaking.
“I see. Well, if it is funds you need?—”
She held up a hand. “Please, do not finish that thought, generous though it may be. I could not possibly take your money.”
“Not even as compensation for saving my son?”
“Especially not for that. I did not do it for money.”
“I am aware, but?—”
“No, thank you, Your Grace. Please. Allow me to keep my dignity and earn or win the money as I may.”
The Duke pursed his lips. “Very well, then. What if my aunt were to sponsor you? She is known for her generosity. It would not look like charity; you may rest assured.”
Daisy wished she could accept such kindness, but knew it would be highly unconventional. Even if the Dowager would agree to such an arrangement, Daisy would always feel beholden to both Lady Archworth and the Duke. “I would rather take the opportunity toearnthe sponsorship if it is all the same to you.” She hesitated for a moment. “I… it is notjustfor my dowry that I need the funds. Other…obligations also compel me.”
He cocked an eyebrow, eyes widening curiously. “I see.”
He stared thoughtfully at her while she stared back, wondering what he could possibly think of her while marveling at how the candlelight seemed to shine from inside of his eyes so that shefelt as if she was looking into a room, one whose contents she would give her right arm to know.
But he remained enigmatic.
“What ifIwere toloanyou the money you need?” he asked.
She shook her head regretfully. “I would have no way to repay you. It would be out of the frying pan and into the fire.”
“The loan would be long-term…and you might take as long as you need before offering any sort of recompense.”
She sighed. “You are unexpectedly generous, Your Grace. Unfortunately, I cannot accept your offer. Not in good conscience.”
“So, it is my aunt’s prize or nothing?” he asked softly.
She nodded regretfully. “I fear so, Your Grace.”
He took a breath, glancing away towards the parlor. The Duke watched the people milling about for a moment while she stared at him, curious to see what he would do next. His brow furrowed and created fine lines above his nose. Her fingers tingled with the urge to reach out and smooth out those creases.
What am I thinking? I am in a rather precarious set of circumstances. The Duke is offering to help, yet all I can think of is how nice it might be to touch his handsome face.
