When I Loved a Charmer by Dawn Brower

Author:Dawn Brower [Brower, Dawn]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Dawn Brower

Six

Jonah tapped his fingers on the railing of Hampstead’s theater box. He didn’t know why he’d agreed to attend the latest play with Lord and Lady Hampstead—and Lady Calliope. He should have said no. Why couldn’t he utter that little word when it concerned the earl’s sister?

There was something about her that drew Jonah to her. He shouldn’t encourage her or make her believe he was a man she could rely on. Hell, he’d already proved that fact during her debut ball. He had failed to present himself for the dance he’d promised her. She should give him the cut direct and yet, she hadn’t, and probably wouldn’t.

He was not a good man and nothing would change that. Jonah was fundamentally broken, and as much as he would like to have a chance with Lady Calliope that was an impossibility. Perhaps he would be able to walk away from her and not look back. Jonah hoped he could. She deserved far better than him and his dark past.

“My lord,” Lady Calliope said from behind him. “I didn’t think you would attend.”

Neither had he… Jonah hadn’t actually promised he would join them for the play. His answer had been noncommittal, but after deliberating about joining them all day he’d decided he couldn’t let her down again. She had appeared so hopeful earlier that day. Disappointing her…made something ache inside of him. The realization that he would rather slice out his own heart rather than hurt her…it hadn’t been pretty. “If you wish I can depart and leave you without the injury my company may bring.”

She lifted a brow. “Are you in a foul mood?”

Jonah tilted his head and opted for honesty. Most days his façade helped him manage polite society. Lady Calliope deserved to see a little of who he actually was, and not the false charm he displayed for everyone. “Always,” he admitted. He didn’t want to frighten her though. “But I promise to keep it to myself if I should remain in the box for tonight’s entertainment.” He lifted a brow. “So tell me, Lady Calliope, what should I do?”

Her lips twitched as if she were fighting a smile. She lifted her chin and met his gaze…almost defiantly. Was she challenging him? He couldn’t discern her motives or what she might want. Jonah wasn’t sure if he wanted to. He might not like the truth.

“You’re here,” she said simply. “Why leave now. Please sit.” She gestured toward one of the chairs. “I’ll join you and we can discuss the play during intermission.”

“How generous of you.” He bowed. “Ladies first.” Jonah set his hands on the back of her chair until she was seated, then sat next to her. “Where is Lord and Lady Hampstead?”

He hadn’t realized until that moment that the earl and countess hadn’t walked into the box with Lady Calliope. That fact made the two of them horrible chaperones. If they didn’t join them soon the ton would be all aflutter with gossip about Jonah and Lady Calliope.

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