Escaping the Duke (The Secret Crusaders Book 1) by Melanie Rose Clarke

Author:Melanie Rose Clarke [Clarke, Melanie Rose]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.
Published: 2021-06-16T22:00:00+00:00

“Tell me again why we’re here.”

“Because my duchess-to-be will soon arrive, and I need her where she can’t escape.” Edmund rubbed his hands together. “Hopefully, my sister can convince her I’m not nearly as controlling as she believes.”

“You are that controlling.” Crawford examined a piece of lace like it was some foreign creature. “And does she know she’s your duchess-to-be?”

“I’m not going to answer that.”

Edmund pushed aside a curtain of jewel-colored silks to view Sophia. Normally his mother would accompany his sister to the modiste, but he needed an excuse to enlist the duchess’ help. His sister was looking far too mature with her golden curls and bright blue eyes, and a dress that made her look older than her years. He was not the only one who noticed, but his piercing glares ensured she was left alone. He always made sure to keep his sister, and any men who would deem approach her, in view.

He turned back to Crawford, “I’d like her to see marriage will not be as dreadful as she assumes.”

Peyton inclined his head. “Fine. That explains why you are here. But why are Crawford and I here?”

“Because you are kind enough to distract Lady Emma and Lady Hannah.”

“Ahhh.” Crawford smiled. “I do not mind distracting Lady Hannah. The lady is refreshing.”

Edmund looked at him frankly. “She dislikes you intensely.”

Crawford smiled wider. “She does indeed.”

“I do not mind entertaining Lady Emma.” Peyton straightened his sleeves. “She is pleasant enough, even if she doesn’t utter a word. And what about you, Bradenton? How goes your suit?”

Edmund grimaced. With her spirit, kindness and intelligence, Priscilla would make the ideal duchess, yet she remained resistant, defiant. “As frustrating as my search for my informant.”

“You have no new leads?”

Edmund shook his head. “If only I had pulled the curtain back sooner. I’ve done a little investigating during several parties, but the only lurkers I found were…” He cleared his throat. “Indisposed.”

“That must have been awkward.”

“Indeed.”

“Did Lord P mention the episode in a letter?”

“No, so I cannot even be certain it was him,” Edmund replied. “One thing did change, however. Whereas in the past, we discussed specific lords to target, now he will neither suggest nor confirm any names.”

“He doesn’t want you to find him.”

“Likely. But I have a plan.” Edmund stood up taller. “He won’t be able to hide the truth for much longer.”

A gasp pierced the air.

All eyes turned to the door as the Duchess of Sherring, Lady Priscilla, Lady Hannah and Lady Emma entered, accompanied by an army of maids and footmen. Most smiled warm greetings.

Priscilla stared at him.

No matter how many times he saw her, her beauty stunned him. Today she wore a pale blush dress accentuated with tiny flowers and ethereal puff sleeves. It fit tightly around her ample bosom and skimmed gracefully over her hips. Ladies’ fashion was not normally something he admired, or even noticed, but he couldn’t help but appreciate how the silky fabric hugged her curves. Her creamy cheeks were flushed pink and her eyes shone brightly.

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