The Duke's Temptation by Addie Jo Ryleigh

she hadn’t noticed his lapse in judgment.
    Undeniably, on more than one occasion, lust had compelled him, but he’d never lost his control. What was it about her that overrode his better senses? Whatever the reason, he must find a way to resist.
    Sounding quite annoyed, Elizabeth spoke. “If you’d rather drink than discuss Phoebe, I’ll retire to my chambers.”
    He looked up, relieved to find her safely across the room. His body wasn’t yet prepared for her nearness. “Just need a little indulgence.” He raised his glass to her. “Would you care for one? I believe the tea has grown cold by now.”
    “No, thank you. I don’t partake in strong spirits.”
    Having no aversion to strong spirits himself, he took a drink. And regardless of what she claimed, he was skeptical the very girl who, while growing up, had a tendency to spend more time playing with the boys than with dolls, didn’t indulge in something stronger than wine with her meal.
    Sarcasm dripped from his words. “Sure you don’t, Minx.”
    He took tiny pleasure in witnessing Elizabeth visually tense, her dainty hands curved into tight balls. Would she use those undersized fists on him if he stood closer? Apparently, the young lady he’d secretly watched gracing the glittering ballrooms of the ton still possessed the wild spirit of the child he once knew.
    Would she let the same spirit loose in his bedroom?
    His body began to stir at the idea of Elizabeth visiting his chamber. Gabe downed the remainder of his drink, anxious to finish discussing Phoebe so he could find an outlet for his mounting need before he accosted Elizabeth on the floor of his study.
    Clearing his throat, he disposed of his glass. “What are your plans with Phoebe? Do you require any assistance?”
    “I’m not sure yet. I will need to discuss things with your housekeeper and determine what is needed.” As she continued, he could see her gain confidence. “Also, if you have no objection, I could take over the search for a governess.”
    If it meant he wouldn’t have to bore himself with potential applicants, he would declare her Queen of England.
    A more self-assured version of the little minx he’d watched grow up seemed to unfurl before him. “If you think you can manage it, I’ll hand over any documents I have.” The corner of his mouth curved. He liked this side of her. “Is there anything else?”
    “I’d like to meet her.”
    His slight smile died. It was a simple request—and something completely reasonable—but he wasn’t ready for her to meet his daughter. He didn’t want to see the misguided respect Elizabeth held for him disappear. And disappear it would. Meeting Phoebe, spending time with her, would lead to more questions. Questions that would eventually center on Phoebe’s mother; who she was, and what she’d been to him. And those answers would hint at other details of his life. Details he’d give anything to keep Elizabeth from being privy to.
    He forced his trepidation aside, knowing the situation was inevitable. “I’ll consult with Mrs. Pearce and have it arranged for tomorrow. Use the remainder of the day to get settled.”
    Seeming to take his words as dismissal, Elizabeth bobbed her head faintly and turned to leave the room.
    “Minx.” She stopped. He murmured, “It might not seem like it, but I appreciate your help.” As she swung around to face him, he added, “Thank you.”
    The radiance that beamed from her full smile hit him directly in the gut. “You’re welcome.” Her smile reformed into a smirk. “ Your Grace .”

Chapter 6
    An hour later, Elizabeth found herself searching out Phoebe. Choosing to ignore Gabe’s request to wait until the morning, she prowled through his town house, hunting for a child that could be the result of his love for another woman. Or simply further proof of Gabe’s rakish behavior. She didn’t know which she hoped for.
    She didn’t believe herself to be naïve. She knew of Gabe’s various