Page 122 of A Scandal for the Beastly Earl

"I know nothing about investing."

"That's not what she says. Apparently, you've been corresponding with bankers?"

"Just a few questions."

"About?"

"Investments in general."

"Since when are you interested?"

"Since I started reading your financial papers."

"Those are boring."

"Those are fascinating."

"Are they?"

"According to Mr. Potts."

"You're corresponding with Potts about investments?"

"He owns several businesses. He's quite knowledgeable."

"My pregnant wife is secretly becoming a financial genius."

"Hardly. But I thought if Cordelia's going to have a dowry, it should grow."

"You're investing her dowry?"

"With her permission. She's very excited about it."

"Of course she is. You've corrupted another innocent."

"I've educated another woman. There's a difference."

"Is there?"

"Education is power."

"Corruption is more fun."

"That too."

He took the papers from her, setting them aside. "Speaking of corruption..."

"I'm working."

"It's nine o'clock at night."

"This pregnant countess has plans."

"What plans?"

"Investment plans. Social plans. Baby plans."

"Too many plans."