Page 12 of The Earl’s Marriage of Convenience

He watched her eyes brighten behind her spectacles, as though he had struck precisely the right chord.

“I do,” she said. “Very much. They shape so much of how our society functions. Though I would not claim any great expertise—I simply find it … intriguing.”

“I see. Beauty as well as intellect,” he replied.

Even as he spoke, he made a quiet mental note—perhaps not an ideal match. A lady inclined toward politics might prove more opinionated than he presently desired.

He redirected smoothly. “And what occupies your time when you are not observing the political intrigues of London? What captures your interest?”

She gave a small shrug. “I enjoy reading. And I should say my skill at the pianoforte is above average—though I cannot claim that as passion, only perseverance. But…” She leaned slightly closer, lowering her voice. “I will share a secret with you, Lord Devon.”

Her smile was unexpectedly warm—inviting.

Without quite realizing it, he leaned in, answering her with a grin of his own. “I am particularly fond of secrets.”

“I am quite unbeatable at whist,” she confessed, a hint of dare in her tone.

His grin widened. “Why does that sound like a challenge, Lady Molly?”

She leaned back again, another delicate shrug accompanying the movement. “You may interpret it as you wish. Though I am always pleased to encounter a worthy opponent. Would you consider yourself one, Lord Devon?”

“I would not consider myself unworthy,” he returned lightly. “Though I cannot claim your same confidence. I do, however, enjoy a challenge.”

“Then we understand one another.” She glanced down as a rose hue lit her cheeks.

The set ended as the music softened and drifted to a close. Edwin slowed his steps and released her with a polite inclination of his head.

“Thank you for the highlight of my evening,” he said, offering his arm to escort her back toward her corner of the ballroom.

“And I thank you for mine. You are every bit as charming as rumor suggests, Lord Devon.”

“I would not advise placing too much faith in rumor,” he replied. “However, if I have proven charming to you, then I am well satisfied. Might I call upon you? Perhaps to test your skill at whist.” A faint smile touched his lips. “Though I must warn you—there is also something to be said for a spring ride through Hyde Park.”

“I should be delighted with either prospect.”

“Then I shall look forward to it. Good evening, Lady Molly.”

“And good evening to you, Lord Devon.”

He bowed and took his leave, knowing that two dances would start talk. He quickly thought back over their conversation. He hadn’t expected her to find politics interesting, but it wasn’t alarming. He’d continue his soft pursuit of her. He’d have to keep it gentle, so if he did disengage from dancing with her, it wouldn’t cause talk, or worse yet, label him a rake. No, everything had to be proper, not a whisper of scandal. Or else he’d be worse off than when he started.

“You look deep in thought,” Henley said by way of greeting as Edwin stood beside him.

“You’d be correct. This whole bloody business of courtship is complicated.”

“Yes, it is. Especially for those out of practice.”

“Ass.”

“Indeed,” he remarked, his tone far too pleased for the insult to have done any damage.

“How long until your wife is able to be in society? I’m already tired of your presence.”

“That didn’t take long,” Henley said over his cup as he took a drink of orgeat.

“Or perhaps it’s just because you’re my brother and I’ve had to deal with you my whole life.”

“I’m guessing that’s the reason.” Henley tipped the cup toward Edwin as if pointing out the validity of his statement. “But to answer your question, my wife has only a few weeks before we have another reason to stay away from society.”