A Rogue's Kiss by Amanda Mariel

Author:Amanda Mariel [Mariel, Amanda]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Brook Ridge Press

Thirteen

Seth downed the four fingers of Scotch Charles had offered him, then slammed the crystal tumbler onto the table beside him.

A surge of emotions rampaged through him as he lowered his head into his hands. Anger clashing with grief. His heart pounded, and throat tightened.

How could Constantine do this to him—to them? He knew she shared his feeling. The proof shone in her eyes even as she’d turned him away.

“I should have followed her,” he mumbled more to himself than Charles.

“Perhaps,” Charles agreed, “But maybe allowing her some space is best.”

Seth sprang from the chair and paced toward the office door. “She’s worth fighting for.” He turned back to Charles, his mind racing. “I don’t know what to say. I don’t know how to get through to her.”

“Perhaps, I can be of assistance,” a new voice invaded the room.

Seth and Charles turned to the newcomer.

“Lord Dartford to see you, Your Grace,” a footman announced before backing out of the room.

Seth drew in a sharp, stabilizing breath as the man bowed. He’d sent a letter to Constantine’s father several days ago but hadn’t expected his arrival.

Seth bowed in return, then said, “I didn’t believe you would come.”

“That letter you sent was rather compelling,” Dartford strolled further into the room. “I would be remiss to ignore it, and I fear I have already wasted far too much time doing so.”

Charles approached and offered the earl a tumbler. “It’s a pleasure to have you in my home, Lord Dartford.”

Dartford accepted the drink. “The pleasure is mine, Your Grace.” He turned back to Seth. “Am I correct in my understanding that you wish to marry my daughter?”

“You are, but I fear things have taken a turn, and she no longer fancies my suit.”

“I wasn’t aware that she ever did. Your note led me to believe that though you were in love, she had reservations.” Dartford sipped his scotch, his gaze scrutinizing.

Charles handed Seth another tumbler of scotch, then patted his shoulder before moving to sit beside the hearth.

Seth hadn’t written of love. He swirled the liquor in his glass as he gathered his thoughts. He’d made his intentions known and expressed a fondness for Constantine, but he never used the word love. How had the man deduced that?

After taking a long drink, he met Dartford’s gaze and said, “I offered for her, and she accepted.”

“Splendid news.” Dartford smiled.

“Unfortunately, she has since called off.” Seth cringed, his emotions welling anew. “There was an incident at tonight’s ball. She blames herself and insists the incident is proof of her unsuitability.”

“I fear I have done her a great disservice by keeping her sequestered away in the country. I don’t mind saying so, for I blame myself for her social awkwardness and self-doubts.” Dartford downed his drink, then strolled over to the sideboard and set the glass down. He turned back to Seth and asked, “Where is she now?”

“In her room, I believe.” Lady Chadwick ambled into the office. “I heard you were here, Dartford.” She shot him a stern look, then smiled in small degrees.

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