Free The Duke's Daughter by Sasha Cottman Page A

soft lines in the corners of his eyes wrinkled. A second wave of heat coursed through her body, catching her breath. She shuddered.
    ‘I could never think you foolish, Avery,’ she murmured.
    The moment had come for her to make a move. Any second now Eve was likely to return and the opportunity would be lost.
    ‘In fact, I was thinking only the other evening how astute you are. You saw how others behaved during the dinner and made every effort to copy them.’
    She shifted forward in her seat; the time had come.
    ‘I realise we don’t know one another that well, but if you like I would be more than happy to offer my services in assisting you to learn more of the ways of society. With my dear sister Clarice indisposed, it makes sense that someone else from within the family steps forward and helps. What do you think, Avery?’
    She allowed his name to slide slowly off her tongue, thrilled to be able to use it to his face. When he hesitated to respond she silently chided herself for being too forward.
    ‘That is a very generous offer, Lucy,’ he replied.
    She forced herself to blink slowly, displaying a calm demeanour. He had to think this arrangement was a mere trifle to her, that it meant nothing. Meanwhile, her heart was thumping loudly in her chest. She was desperate for him to say yes.
    ‘I am not certain how I should reply. Is it socially acceptable?’
    ‘Of course. Then we have an accord. Excellent,’ she quickly replied.
    Her hand shot out and she watched with overwhelming relief as he took it. The deal was sealed.
    ‘I shall consult my social diary and see when it is suitable to meet with you. Outside of parties and balls we can meet here. I am sure Lord Langham will not mind,’ she added.
    The door opened and Eve entered the room, followed closely by David. Lucy feigned a disinterested air. David was the sharpest man she knew. He would miss nothing. He came to her and placed a brotherly kiss on her cheek.
    ‘Lucy, nice to see you this morning; what a lovely surprise,’ he said.
    His voice was calm and even. If he suspected anything was amiss he was giving nothing away. She gave him her best sisterly smile. David was one gentleman who knew the ways of attraction and seduction. Before his marriage, he had a well-deserved reputation with ladies of the social scene. She was certain he could tell she was up to something.
    ‘Fox,’ he said, nodding in Avery’s direction.
    Cool and calm as ever, David did not give Lucy a clue as to his mind.
    Cad.
    ‘How is Clarice?’ Lucy asked.
    ‘She has returned to bed,’ David replied. He looked at Eve, who nodded sadly.
    Lucy rose from the couch, sensing it was time to make a strategic withdrawal. As David helped her to her feet, he nodded his silent approval at this move. She should not have been alone with Mr Fox.
    ‘Give Clarice my love, will you?’ she said.
    ‘Of course.’
    After making a polite farewell, Lucy and Eve graciously exited Langham House. As they got into the carriage, Lucy sat heavily back against the well-padded leather squabs and closed her eyes.
    The business of being a close but detached friend to Avery Fox was becoming problematic. Self-doubt clouded her mind.
    ‘So, did he agree to your proposal?’ Eve asked.
    ‘Yes,’ Lucy replied, but added nothing further.
    The way forward with Avery was now clear, but where it would eventually lead was entirely unknown. Her heart still raced. Looking down at her gloved hands she felt the slight tremor in her fingertips.
    I’m not sure I can do this.

CHAPTER SIX
    ‘I love it! The two of you look just as my parents do when they are at a party after they have had a row. Talk about stiff and proper,’ Eve said.
    She was seated at the piano playing a lively waltz, to which Lucy and Avery were attempting to dance.
    Lucy and Avery shared a pained look.
    They had spent all afternoon in the drawing room at Langham House trying to polish Avery’s dance skills, with little progress.
    ‘You cannot