How to Fool a Duke (The Husband Dilemma #1) - Lancaster, Mary Page 0,19

She had been careful to eat only tiny portions so she would not be incapable of performing. Too much food and wine could definitely affect her voice.

“How many events have you attended here, Lady Billows?”

“Twenty or so, I believe. Most are not as elaborate as this, but just as enjoyable.”

“And you, sir?”

“This is my third year to support Lady Whitmore’s mission.”

“Mission?” Sarah asked, surprised by his choice of words.

“Yes, mission is the perfect word for what she intends,” the earl said. “To provide a means for people often forgotten to find a way to support themselves. It is not a unique idea, but her approach to accomplishing it is.”

“I am humbled by your support for Lady Whitmore and your enthusiasm to help underprivileged women.”

He shrugged. “I have three sisters, Miss Sarah—one of them close in age to you, I believe. If she were ever to…” He quickly took up his wine glass and swallowed it down, appearing to grow uncomfortable.

“I did not mean to unsettle you, my lord.”

“You didn’t. I’m afraid I have a soft spot for my siblings, each of them strong-willed and independent. Johanna, the eldest, is just eighteen. Miriam is sixteen, and Regina, thirteen.”

“Do you have siblings, Miss Sarah?” he asked.

“I am afraid I cannot answer questions of such a personal nature.”

“You see,” Lady Billows said with an approving tone, “you are learning quickly.”

“Were you testing me, sir?”

The earl met her gaze. “In a way. But you intrigue me, Miss Sarah, I will not lie. Perhaps I may call on you when you are next in London.”

Lady Billows gave a feminine cough. “My dear, you mustn’t prey upon the young lady right before her performance!”

“My intentions are honorable,” he said to Lady Billows, then reached for Sarah’s hand and patted it.

She gaped at him for a moment, then gently withdrew her hand, shocked that she wasn’t offended by his public gesture of affection. Only…

She gazed in the direction of the Duke of Vexen, finding his green eyes intently watching her, his expression severe.

Lady Billows leaned close to her. “You seem to have two very serious admirers, my dear. Tread carefully, for both of these men are powerful, influential, and wealthy. Do not trifle with either one. And if neither appeal to you, make it known right away. A good reputation is the most important thing any young lady has.”

Sarah nodded. “Thank you for your advice, Lady Billows.”

“And Lady Sarah,” she said, causing Sarah to nearly fall out of her chair. “Your father and mother miss you very much.”

Sarah promptly folded her linen napkin and placed it on the table, stood slowly, and excused herself from the room.

***

He could not, would not, stay seated for the duration of Sarah’s performance. The first two songs were enough to convince him she could make angels weep, and even more evident, she could bring an earl to his knees.

Making his way to the back of the room, he left unnoticed, everyone enthralled by her flawless voice. A siren meant to torment him, though he had no real claim on her.

The main room was nearly empty; staff were busy cleaning up. He found a cushioned bench in a corner and sat down, the weight of the world suddenly on his shoulders. Tonight must not be wasted; he would have a private moment with Sarah and convince her to acknowledge him.

To the devil!

Another man should not be holding her hand, touching her in any way.

He breathed in deeply and closed his eyes, taking in the words she sang, the tone of her voice, imagining her pretty features, her dark hair and eyes imprinted on his mind forever.

Could anyone blame him for not extending an offer of marriage to her before? A duchess who climbed trees and ran about like a lad? She would have slid down every banister inside his townhouse to the shock and disapproval of his staff, perhaps even wear pantaloons! Christ in heaven.

The singing stopped, and there was a long moment of silence, and Leonard jumped to his feet. Did they not appreciate her extraordinary talent? He must go to her immediately… After taking only two steps, the room exploded with applause. Miss Sarah, his Lady Sarah, was a success.

Reclaiming his seat, he realized it would be a long wait before the crowd dispersed and gave him a chance to speak with her.

“She is everything we had hoped for.” Lady Whitmore appeared from nowhere.

He looked up, her rose-colored gown and matching feathers in her hair complemented her exceedingly well. “Your