Page 9 of A Scoundrel’s Promise

Determination darkened her gaze. “Papa, you must instruct Lord Liam to attend the party. It would be terribly rude of us to leave him and his companions out of the fun.”

This time, Liam couldn’t halt the smile that tugged at his lips. The minx was clearly accustomed to having her way.

Lord Dunn didn’t look up.

“Papa.” His daughter shook his arm.

Dunn frowned and looked up.

“Tell Lord Liam that we did not intent to be rude. It was a mistake that he did not receive the invitation. He must attend the party.”

Dunn looked at Liam. “I beg you, if nothing else then for my peace of mind, you and your brother—”

“Do not forget the other two gentlemen at Blackstone Abbey,” Lady Mackenzie cut in. “It would not do to leave them out.”

Dunn quirked a brow. “As I said, for my peace of mind, you must all accept the invitation.”

He had no intention of attending a party at Newborne—particularly with this spoiled goddess in attendance. But he nodded, and said, “I shall convey the invitation to everyone at Blackstone.”

“We shall send another invitation,” the lass said, clearly pleased with herself.

“Mackenzie,” Lady Cora said under her breath, “we must go.”

“Perhaps it is best if you go,” Dunn said. “Lord Liam and I have business to conduct.”

Liam expected her to balk—and get her way. But she stood and curtsied prettily. “Lord Liam, we look forward to seeing you and the other gentlemen next Saturday night.” She pressed a kiss to her father’s cheek, then grasped Lady Cora’s hand and left.

A murmur filtered to them as Liam sat down, but he couldn’t discern the words. He wagered that Lady Cora wanted to know if he was going to tell Lord Dunn he had seen them on the road. He should tell the man, but, for some unknown reason, didn’t.