Devil Disguised by Karolyn Howard Page A

you are aware of his reputation.”
    Lily nodded and said, “Charles told me a little of your brother’s notorious ways. My uncle also said he was certain that I could handle myself and expected your brother to do the same.”
    Eleanor bit her lip as a grin spread across her face. “I think Charles is a very smart man and I must say the two of them were quite the pair a few years ago.”
    Lily’s interest was piqued. “Really? Do tell.”
    Eleanor tilted her head and said, “Hmm. I fear I have already said too much. Duncan is my brother after all. Instead, let us enjoy this delicious meal and we will talk of London and all our favorite things about that city since my brother is not here.”

    Lily had managed to avoid any contact with Duncan for three days, but after Eleanor’s constant nagging; she decided enough time had passed for him to forgive her past actions. As she waited in the dining room, she smoothed the front of her green colored dress and then plucked along the delicate ruffles that curved along the short sleeves and edges of the bodice. She wanted to look demure and planned to eat her dessert in a normal fashion. Shaking her head, she did her best to recall why in heaven she trulyate the piece of chocolate cake in the manner in which she had the other day. Something inside her wanted to be as provocative and daring as Charlotte. Staring into the hearth, she heard movement near her.
    “Good evening, Lady Montgomery.”
    The deep timber of the earl’s voice resonated into her bones. She turned, but this time did not gasp upon seeing Duncan’s handsome figure so close to her own. She felt her stomach flutter as she tried to hide her sudden nervousness.
    “Good evening, Lord Cavanaugh,” she replied evenly.
    He already had a wine glass in his hand and lifted it up. “Please, join me.”
    She nodded and the chair next to his own was pulled out by a servant. When had the place settings changed?
    She asked, “Am I not to sit across the table from you this evening?”
    “I thought it was unnecessary to shout at one another tonight.” His mouth quirked up as he sat down.
    “I see.” Lily watched as wine was poured by a servant into his now empty glass before the servant filled her glass as well. She sat in the chair at Duncan’s left side as he remained at the head of the table.
    He lifted his glass and said, “To enjoying any entire second meal together. I will do my utmost to not offend you before dessert and hope to walk you to your room without getting the door slammed in my face.”
    Lily blushed. “I apologize. My behavior was inexcusable.”
    “No, on the contrary, you were very brave. I was just not prepared for the sight of you nearly naked.”
    She swallowed to hide her gasp as she watched him drink his entire glass of wine and then signal for more. Hand shaking she reached for her own glass and enjoyed the feel of the red wine as it moved smoothly down her throat.
    Trying to sound nonchalant, she said, “I heard the noise and acted quickly. I thought of bringing a candlestick, but not a robe.”
    “Again, you were very brave.” He paused and looked down at his plate. “So, tell me, how is my sister?”
    Taking a deep breath and a bite of her food, Lily relaxed a bit. She told him about some of the conversations she shared with Eleanor, but avoided any mention of London, her former fiancés or his reputation. She was surprised to find it surprisingly easy to talk with him.
    “Lord Cavanaugh, I must say -.” Her words were halted by a quick motion of his hand.
    He said, “Please, call me Duncan.” He signaled again for his glass to be refilled and tilted his head in her direction. “Continue.”
    “All right, Duncan. I was just going to say your sister is wonderful. I feel as if I have known her all my life. I am grateful to be here with her. And, please, call me Lily.”
    A smile spread across his face softening his strong features, but it caused her nervousness to return.
    He