The Duke's Indiscretion by Adele Ashworth Page B

expect?”
    Frankly, she’d never once thought of such a thing. The sexual act, what she knew of it, consisted of grunting men and passive wives who dutifully gave whatever pleasure their husbands needed so they could return quickly to more important obligations. Although she’d teased the Duke of Newark about becoming his lover the night they met in her dressing room, she’d never considered doing such a thing with anyone else.
    â€œYou don’t have an answer?” he asked rather brusquely.
    She shook her head, blinking quickly in confusion. “No, of course not. I mean—I’ve just—I’ve neverthought about it.”
    He laughed out loud with genuine amazement. “You’re telling me I’m the only man you’ve considered taking as a lover?”
    That made her mad. “My life is my singing, your grace,” she articulated, eyes flashing. “I couldn’t care any less about your needs, your desires, your mistresses, nor do I care to take a…variety of men to my bed. So, no. I can honestly say that I have no desire for any lover but you.” Yielding a bit, she added, “And only if we’re properly married.”
    Something in her words or manner got to him. His features softened, his lips once again formed a hint of a smile, and he leaned his head against the back of his wooden rocker.
    â€œWhat a priceless bargain you offer me, Charlotte.”
    With grace and a sweeping of her skirts, she slowly stood, her reticule clutched at her waist, facing him with marked determination. “I do hope you’ll consider my proposal with care, sir. I’m very, very serious about it. I do not intend to take the marriage vows lightly, and will do my best to honor you with my utmost devotion.”
    He grinned wryly. “As a dutiful wife?”
    For a moment Charlotte wondered if he were mocking her, then decided she didn’t want to know. “Yes, exactly,” she replied modestly.
    After drawing a deep breath and exhaling fully, he gradually stood to meet the challenge in her gaze. But instead of simply dismissing her or bidding her good day from behind his desk, he walked swiftly around it, toward her, almost alarming her whenhe moved to her side, his expression one of pure satisfaction. She had no idea what to make of that.
    â€œYour grace?” she murmured, concern edging her words.
    He grinned devilishly. “I suppose you won’t let me kiss you again until we’re properly married?”
    She stared up to his beautiful, handsome face, his knowing expression and amusement-filled eyes. “So you agree to my proposal?”
    She held her breath, hopeful, with dreams of taking the stage in Milan for the first time, the applause, the thrown roses, the cheers and accolades.
    â€œIt’s…the most enticing offer of marriage I’ve received from a lady, I’ll say that much.”
    That’s it? “I’ve offered you everything I can, your grace. It’s a perfect opportunity, for both of us. We need each other.”
    His smile slowly faded, his eyes narrowed, and for a second or two she feared she’d gone too far in practically begging.
    And then, instead of kissing her as she feared he’d do, hoped he’d do, he reached out and placed his palm beneath her chin, lifting her head a little as he gently brushed his thumb across her lips.
    She shivered, trying to back away, but her knees bumped up against the chair in which she’d only just been sitting.
    â€œYou’re quite a treasure, aren’t you?” he murmured, brows furrowed as he scanned every inch of her face.
    She drew in a shaky breath and he removed his thumb. “My brother thinks I’m merely trouble. But I’ll try to behave myself when I’m with you, especially when we’re watched by society’s eye in anypublic forum.”
    His lips curved up wryly. “That’s very good to know.”
    She