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“To whom?” Alexandra wanted to know.
“None other than the Duke of Lybrook himself.”
“You’re kidding!” Alexandra squealed. “How did this happen?”
“Tell me and we’ll both know,” Lily replied cynically. “His Grace arranged everything with Papa. I didn’t have a word to say about any of it.”
“Who cares?” Ally shrieked. “You’ve just landed the most luscious man in England, Lily.”
“Yes, he has a certain appeal,” Lily admitted. “But you’re forgetting one very important point. I don’t want to be married.”
“Lily, this is such an honor,” Sophie said.
“An honor? Are you completely mad? To join his merry band of strumpets? I suppose there’s some small consolation in the fact that at least I’ll be his lawful wife, but that won’t stop him from humping—”
“Lily!” Rose admonished.
“Well, it’s true!”
“You don’t know that,” Rose said. “He may be faithful to you.”
“He doesn’t know the meaning of the word.”
“Lily, dear,” Sophie said, “if you’re not happy about the betrothal, what are we celebrating?”
“We are celebrating my new arrival.” Lily hugged Brandy. “Isn’t she precious?”
“Yes, she is,” Sophie agreed. “Where did she come from?”
“A gift from the duke,” Rose said, “along with all of these other incredible offerings.” She grabbed the leather case that held the diamond and ruby jewels. “Look at these.”
“Oh my God,” Ally said, her sandy eyes wide.
“And he gave her his Vermeer. Look.” Rose gestured. “I can’t even begin to imagine how much that painting is worth.”
“That reminds me,” Lily said, rising. “I’m going to move it to the dressing room. Otherwise Brandy might chew on it.” She lifted the painting. “I will miss looking at it though. My, he was inspired.”
“You’re the luckiest woman on earth, Lily.” Alexandra fingered the pearl choker and earrings. “These are beautiful. And all these art supplies. He certainly knows you, doesn’t he?”
“He doesn’t know me at all, Ally. If he did, he wouldn’t force me into this sham of a marriage. It’s his father all over again, isn’t it?’
“Not exactly,” Alexandra said. “Her Grace hadn’t even met the old duke when her marriage was arranged. You’re acquainted with your duke, and you seem to get on well enough, not to mention he’s handsome, rich, and titled.”
“None of that matters, Ally,” Sophie said. “Is he kind, Lily?”
“Well, he’s forcing me to marry him. That can hardly be called kind.”
“He is a kind man,” Rose said. “Lily and I have spent some time with him. He’s intelligent and articulate, and he has a pleasant personality.”
“Traitor,” Lily said.
“Lily, you are…fond of him. Admit it,” Rose said.
“All right, damn it. I am fond of him. Are you happy?”
“Incredibly. Now, for our celebration.”
Rose lifted a bottle of wine from the crate and summoned a servant to open it. It was returned quickly, along with four glasses.
