Page 54 of The Untamed Heiress

Though he would like to hear her explanation, his decision to end things between them was firm. And though their interview this afternoon was likely to be unpleasant, he was almost looking forward to it. For once it concluded, he meant to head directly to Lady Seagrave's house.

He'd almost broken and blurted out his intentions this morning—until Helena had asked to become his mistress, reminding him before he blundered into the proposal he was not yet free to make of her determination never to marry.

He would have to court her carefully, cleverly, for he would be satisfied with nothing less than persuading her to become his bride. Given her unconventional nature, perhaps he could use some seduction of his own, he thought, happily envi sioning such a scene. And after he'd rendered her replete with satisfaction, maybe she could be induced to accept his suit without a murmur.

Seduction aside, he knew he'd begun to win her trust. He need only continue showing her he was worthy of her.