Page 42 of A Rogues & Gentlemen Christmas

“Sorry?” he repeated, obviously perplexed, and she thought perhaps a little annoyed too. “What the devil are you sorry for?”

Bunty hesitated. “N-Nice girls aren’t supposed to behave like that.”

He let out a sigh and reached for her, cupping her cheek. “You’re the nicest girl I have ever met, and I loved every minute of it. Please don’t regret it, but I suppose I had better take you home. We’re not married yet.”

“Why?”

Lord Courtenay frowned at her. “Why what?”

“Why are you marrying me?”

He hesitated and Bunty held her breath, for once in her life allowing herself to hope for a man to say something that did not make her feel unattractive and unwanted. He turned and looked at her, his expression intent.

“Not for your dowry, if that’s what you’re wondering. I’m not marrying you because I must, and I’m not marrying you for your money. I swear upon my honour, for whatever that tarnished article may be worth to you.”

Bunty smiled at him. It wasn’t exactly a romantic declaration, but it was more than she’d dared hope for. “I think your honour is a most valuable thing, my lord.”

He stared at her, something in his eyes that she could not read.

“Thank you,” he said softly. “And it’s not ‘my lord.’ Not anymore. I should like you to call me Ludo.”