The Debutante's Wager by Donna Cummings

Author:Donna Cummings [Cummings, Donna]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Published: 2018-01-09T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter 8

Tony entered the breakfast parlor and Tess's heart soared at the smile he gave her. If she had her way, she would be seeing this particular expression on his face for a good long while into the future.

"Good morning," he said, seating himself near her.

"It is indeed," she replied.

He tilted his head. "It does my heart good to see you so cheerful. What might be the reason for it?"

She wanted to present her idea in a calm fashion, to ensure he agreed. But just as the first time she had presented it, the words were gone before she could rein them in.

"I want to continue our wager."

He nodded, as if contemplating the notion. Before he could protest, she added, "We are wed, but I have not seen anyone succumbing to love."

It made her think how she was doing things backwards, quite like her newfound friends had done. Previously this was just a lighthearted wager, a way to make the Season a bit more bearable while retrieving her grandfather's painting.

But now that she was wed, and to a man who clearly felt constrained by marriage…she had to prove to herself that their attraction could indeed become something more.

"You believe you can still win the wager?" he asked.

Tony's eyes gleamed with the challenge, which was heartening. In truth, she liked the thought of him doing his utmost to make her fall in love. Tess was equally intent. After all, she had his name. Now she wanted his love.

"I am more determined than ever," she said. "The circumstances have changed, but the wager has not. I believe it will make it even more entertaining for the both of us. There are distinct advantages to being wed."

His lips twitched with amusement. "So I shall sing your praises if you win my heart. What shall you do when I win yours? Paint my portrait for display at Somerset House?"

"I had considered it." She grinned. "But I cannot be certain the Royal Academy would permit a painting of a lamb-faced gentleman."

Tony bit back a laugh. "You have chosen something else then."

"Indeed. If you win my heart, I shall compose an ode and read it aloud in Hyde Park, detailing the reasons I could not resist your charms."

"I would be happy to assist with composing the numerous stanzas it will require."

Tess waved her hand dismissively. "I am certain I can dash off a few lines between the fish course and dessert one evening. And I have always wanted to try my hand at fiction."

He laughed, and her heart did the most joyous dance at hearing that delightful sound again. She meant to ensure she heard it constantly in the days ahead.

He stood and lifted her hand to his lips. His mouth against her skin was almost too much to bear. It reminded her of the one kiss they had shared, the one that had seemed to be the start of a passionate interlude. The very kiss that had called a halt to it instead.

"Go," she insisted,

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