Free What a Devilish Duke Desires by Vicky Dreiling

was the initial reason for his interest.”
    “He wanted some diversion. That is all.”
    “How do you know?”
    Lucy released a loud sigh. “He is exceptionally handsome, and he probably never wants for feminine admiration.”
    Grandmama laughed. “Describe him to me.”
    “He’s very tall and appears to be quite fit. His blue eyes are his most distinctive feature. Well, that and his smile.”
    “Ah, he has a nice smile,” Grandmama said.
    “Yes, he grins a lot as if he knows a good joke,” Lucy said. “I think he’s a flippant sort of fellow, to be honest. No doubt the ladies probably flirt with him.”
    “But not you?” Grandmama said with a smile.
    “I’m sure he could entice the birds off trees if he wished.”
    “Ah, so he is a charmer, like your grandfather, God rest his soul. I tried to resist him, but in the end he won me over.”
    “Well, I can safely say this gentleman will never woo or win me.”
    “Do not be too hasty,” Grandmama said in a teasing voice. “I think you should pretend that you are not interested.”
    “No pretense is needed because I’m not interested in him at all.”
    Grandmama laughed. “I think you admire him more than you wish to admit.”
    “I do not,” she said. “He’s too persistent…and…too handsome.”
    Grandmama chortled. “Oh, so now you prefer plain gentlemen?”
    “I prefer no man,” Lucy said, laughing. “He may have a fair countenance, but I’m convinced he is the most flirtatious man I’ve ever met.”
    “So you prefer a gentleman who is very serious and sober,” Grandmama said.
    “Aargh,” Lucy said, throwing up her hands. “I surrender.”
    “Excellent,” Grandmama said. “That will make my matchmaking efforts easier.”
    “You would not dare,” Lucy said. “Swear to me you will not try your hand at matchmaking.”
    Grandmama laughed. “On one condition.”
    “Dare I ask what condition?”
    “You will allow yourself to enjoy your gentleman’s company on Sunday.”
    “I will try, but I cannot promise.”
    “That is all I ask,” Grandmama said.
    Lucy snorted. “I know you too well to believe that is all you will ask.”
    “Tell me the truth,” Grandmama said. “Do you disapprove of him?”
    “I cannot approve or disapprove because I don’t know him. Why am I even worrying about this? No doubt he will forget all about meeting us.”
    “I have the opposite opinion,” Grandmama said, “but there is only one way to find out. “Let us meet him at the park on Sunday. I will take his measure and give you my honest opinion. Besides, I would dearly love to visit the park now that the weather is warmer.”
    Grandmama’s wistful tone tugged at Lucy’s heart. It had been a fortnight since she’d taken her grandmother on an outing. “If the weather is fine, we will take advantage of the sunshine at the park.”
      
    That night
    Harry had been restless and knew the reason for it. Much as he liked his dog, Bandit wasn’t the companion he needed.
    While he still met his friends at the club periodically, it wasn’t the same. The days where the three of them drank brandy and smoked cheroots until the wee hours of the morning were over. Granted, he had a number of acquaintances at White’s. He decided to join Castelle and Fitzhugh for a brandy. The three sat smoking cheroots.
    “You’re looking rather glum,” Castelle said.
    Fitzhugh poured himself another brandy, splashing more than a little on the table. He squinted in the glass. “I think I should visit my mistress.”
    “Not a good idea. You’re three sheets to the wind, old boy,” Castelle said.
    Fitzhugh hiccupped. “Found her at Mrs. Fleur’s salon. Pretty piece.” He tried to stand and stumbled.
    “Bloody hell,” Harry said. “He’s completely foxed.”
    “I’ll make sure he gets to his rooms,” Castelle said.
    After they left, it occurred to Harry that he might set up a mistress. Erotic engravings and self-pleasure weren’t nearly as satisfying as