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Sarah heaved a sigh. “I suppose the chocolate cake.”
“Oh yes, that was delicious.”
“Now, off to sleep.”
“Are you in love with the Earl of Buckland?”
“Lisbeth!” Sarah protested. “I merely met the man this evening.”
“That doesn’t mean you’re not in love.”
“He’s a very agreeable man. I hope to meet him again one day.”
Sarah had to admit that she was grossly understating her feelings. She actually felt excitement for the day ahead, if only to be in the Earl of Buckland’s company.
“How marvellous,” Lisbeth said dreamily, turning on her side.
“Now, sleep. I’ll come to your room in the morning.”
“Very well.”
Lisbeth closed her eyes, and Sarah got up from the bed, making her way to the door. She quietly stepped out into the hall and closed the door behind her. Just as she did so, the Duke of Faversham approached.
“Lady Sarah.”
“Your Grace?”
“I trust that you had a pleasant evening.”
“Most pleasant. I believe that the ball was a great success.”
The duke gazed down at her, not peeling his eyes away. “Say that you’ll stay for another week.”
Sarah protested, “Your Grace, it’s just not possible. The carriage is returning us to London tomorrow.”
“I wish that you’d stay.”
Sarah heaved a sigh. “Your invitation is most kind, but it’s time to return home.”
“What did you and the earl speak of?”
A wave of frustration washed over Sarah as she considered that it was none of the duke’s business.
“We spoke of books and the earl’s future travels.”
“He’s a good man. I’m quite surprised that I haven’t met him before.”
“Yes, it does seem odd. But considering that he refers to himself as something of a hermit.”
“It’s a poor choice to keep one’s self away from society. Especially when there’s so much to gain.”
Sarah knew that it was wrong to challenge the duke, but at that moment, she couldn’t resist. “And what does the earl possibly gain from being a part of society?”
The duke smiled mischievously. “Lady Sarah, I don’t think you fully comprehend how a man can progress in society if he knows the right people.”
“The earl has a title and an estate in Wales. What if that’s all that he requires?”
“It sounds like you approve of such behaviour. And from your actions this evening, it seems as though you share in his sentiment.”
