Duke of Disrepute (Dukes of Distinction #3) - Alexa Aston Page 0,67

him and love him for the rest of her life. How was she to push aside her foolish notions and pledge herself to another when he dominated her every thought? He’d ruined every other man for her. She had no choice but to wed after this Season. She couldn’t go on living in the Ruthersby household, treated like an inferior in every way. Yet how was she to do so when her body and soul cried out for Weston?

The music ended. He didn’t release her. Others began moving toward the doors.

“Let me go,” she urged, unsure why he held her in place. Worried that others might start to notice and question his behavior—and hers. After all, he was the Duke of Disrepute to everyone present. They would merely think her his latest conquest. What man would want her after he’d left his mark?

He did as she’d asked, his gaze never leaving hers. He placed her hand on his arm and ever so slowly, began leading her from the ballroom. So slowly that by the time they reached the doors they were the last couple to exit.

When Elise tried to continue through the doors, Weston pulled her back into the empty room.

And kissed her.

He hadn’t done so since that first lesson a few weeks ago. They’d never found themselves alone, constantly surrounded by family, friends, or the children. She’d lain in bed at night, thinking of his kiss, her body burning for him.

But now? Here? Why?

She started to protest but his mouth silenced it. His arms went about her, holding her close. He didn’t waste any time. He eased her mouth open and his tongue stroked hers. Chills raced through Elise, a good kind that signaled excitement. Her body sprang to life. Her arms went about his neck, her fingers pushing into his hair. He groaned into her mouth. Her breasts felt full and heavy, aching for his touch, the nipples tender. He tugged her head back, deepening the kiss, stirring the fire that now raged within her.

Then he broke the kiss, resting his forehead against hers as they both breathed heavily.

“What was that?” she asked, her voice shaking.

Weston lifted his head from hers. “That was to show you what you seek with a man. That man will never be Lord Ivy. Is that understood?”

“Yes,” she said meekly, still reeling from the kiss.

“Good.” His hands encircled her waist and pulled them apart, pushing her slightly away. He took her hand and placed it on his arm. “Shall we go into supper, Lady Ruthersby?”

“Yes, Your Grace,” she managed to say, clutching him tightly because her legs shook like jelly.

Elise knew now was not the time to go into it, especially with all of Polite Society surrounding them as they made their way to a table where the Colebournes and Ruthersbys sat—but she would get the truth from Weston about Lord Ivy.

Soon.

Chapter Twenty-One

Weston watched as another gentleman left the Ruthersby townhouse. That made four in the last quarter-hour. Who knew how many were still inside fawning over Elise?

He’d avoided any conversation regarding their kiss. Last night, he’d escorted her into supper, where they sat with her in-laws and George and Sam, knowing she wouldn’t bring it up in front of the others. She and Sam had departed for the retiring room after they ate and he’d made himself scarce until the final dance of the evening. It was another waltz and Weston had relished the feel of Elise in his arms.

They merely enjoyed dancing together and hadn’t bothered with conversation. He’d collected the Ruthersbys and Lady Ruthersby had dominated all conversation the entire way home. Weston had informed Elise he would call on her the next afternoon but she had told him it was imperative to go visit the three ladies he’d danced with. He’d compromised, agreeing to do so if he could come to tea afterward. Before Elise could answer, both the earl and countess enthusiastically replied that His Grace would be most welcomed.

Weston hadn’t visited any woman today. Instead, he had his driver drop him at his club and spent a few hours there. He had read the newspapers, which made much of the Duke of Charm now being happily married and how it was rumored Disrepute would soon follow. He’d also eavesdropped as club members spoke about last night’s ball, hearing Elise’s name mentioned several times. It took great restraint on his part not to smash his fist into the nose of any man who spoke about her. She may