Duke of Disrepute (Dukes of Distinction #3) - Alexa Aston Page 0,45
But I don’t think either of us was very good at it.” She sighed. “Frankly, we weren’t good at much of anything regarding that. Oh, we knew enough to make a baby. Two, actually, but I want my next husband to know something about the process.”
“You want a man who can teach you how to enjoy sex.”
Now, her face flamed. “Yes. I suppose so.”
“So, let me get this straight. You made no mention of a lofty title or wealth.”
“I don’t need a title, Weston. I married an earl before. He was, in the long run, but a man. If you find a titled gentleman you think suitable, that’s perfectly fine. But if he’s only a mister—a third or fourth son—I don’t really care.”
“All right then. A man who will give you multiple children and be affectionate to Claire. One with a decent intellect who will converse with you and not treat you as an object. And a man who will be a worthy lover.”
“Yes,” she said firmly. “That all sounds quite good, indeed.”
The carriage slowed. He noted it had taken them longer to reach Colebourne Hall than usual and blamed it on the muddy roads.
“I am only sorry we are here. I would like for this conversation to continue because I find it fascinating, Elise.”
She playfully punched him in the arm and primly said, “There will be no more talk of this, Your Grace. You have my specifications now and I have yours. You will look accordingly and so will I.”
The carriage door opened and the footman set the steps down. Weston bounded down them and saw mud everywhere. As Elise gave him her hand to help her down, he ignored it, scooping her into his arms.
“What are you doing, Treadwell?” she asked, wriggling.
“I didn’t want the hem of your gown or your slippers to get muddy, Lady Ruthersby,” he said, matching her in formality.
The butler opened the door and Weston swept inside.
Chapter Fifteen
Though mortified and certain her cheeks were as red as a ripe apple, Elise couldn’t help but relish the feel of Weston’s arms about her. He carried her as if she weighed no more than a piece of parchment. She inhaled deeply, adoring the spice of his cologne and that utterly unique smell that was simply Weston. The wall of his chest seemed harder than bricks as her palms pushed against it.
“Put me down,” she ordered as he stepped into the foyer and the butler closed the door.
“Good afternoon, Your Grace,” the servant said.
“Weston! What on earth are you doing?” a feminine voice called.
“Yes, what are you doing?” a masculine one asked.
Weston’s gazed pinned hers for a moment and a rush of heat swept through her as she saw something in his eyes.
Desire . . .
No, that couldn’t be. She blinked and it was gone. He grinned and set her on the ground.
“Sam, George, how good to see you,” he said smoothly, kissing his sister’s cheek. The he indicated Elise. “I would like to introduce you to Lady Ruthersby. My lady, please say hello to the Duke and Duchess of Colebourne.”
Elise somehow maintained her composure and curtseyed to the pair. “It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Your Graces. His Grace speaks very fondly of you both.”
“Oh, he does?” the duchess said, studying her. “I know you. I’ve met you before.”
“Yes, Your Grace. It was over five years ago when I made my come-out.”
“Was it a garden party?” the duchess asked. “I seem to have a picture of you in a violet dress. I thought how splendid it looked with your beautiful eyes.” She glanced to her brother. “Lady Ruthersby has beautiful eyes, doesn’t she?”
“She certainly does,” the duke agreed affably. “But she is more than her looks,” he added, causing Elise’s face to flame once more.
“Come up to the drawing room,” Colebourne said. “Everyone else is there. You might as well tell us all at the same time how Lady Ruthersby and you became acquainted.” He offered Elise his arm and she took it. “We are happy to have you at Colebourne Hall, my lady.”
“Thank you for allowing me to come to your Christmas dinner,” she replied evenly, trying to breathe calmly and regain her composure.
She did so by the time they reached the drawing room, wondering what other guests would be present. Upon entering, she saw two gentlemen standing by the fire and two ladies seated nearby. All four looked up as they came in, curiosity on their faces.