“I’m a disgusting, pathetic worm.”
Carlos beamed at Blake. “See? He admits it.”
“It’s true.” That came from Eberling, who’d been silent until now. “Hynes didn’t wager himself on the outcome of the bet, but he encouraged other men to do so. Not Norbury – he never wagered a penny on it. But Hynes fronted the money those who did when he knew they couldn’t pay…at terms anyone would call usury.”
“So Hynes was profiting off this as well?” Poppy asked, horrified.
“It appears so.” Eberling shook his head. “Duels may be private affairs, but trust me, the correct people will know of Hynes’s actions. I’d be surprised if any clubs are open to him by the end of the week.”
Mr. Blake sighed. “This is too much to comprehend before breakfast. And poor Rose…” He turned toward his daughter, and was quickly absorbed in the quiet drama of the couple he’d sworn only days ago that he’d never give his blessing to.
Poppy was left to watch Carlos de la Guerra, who colored slightly under her gaze. “You have not apologized,” she said.
“What should I apologize for?”
“Oh, I don’t know. Conniving with Norbury to spirit Rose away from me at Vauxhall. Half undressing under the guise of rescuing a cat while at the house. Or, only hours ago, waking me up far earlier than I like to watch a barbaric display of arms…” She inhaled, preparing to list more grievances, but he interrupted the coming tirade.
“Forgive me, Miss St. George. I should have begged your mercy instantly. But it is rather early and I’ve been distracted. The sun was in my eyes.”
A look of confusion crossed her face. “It’s foggy.”
“Really? Well, something brilliant is dazzling me every time I glance eastward.”
Poppy made a mental check as to which way east was, realized his meaning, then smiled hesitantly. “Is that so?” The soft look changed her face completely, enchanting de la Guerra all over again.
“Absolutely,” he swore. “If you permit me to call on you this afternoon, I shall tell you all about it,” he said with an appeal in his eyes. “I should warn you that I will be incredibly charming.”
Poppy, the fierce dragon, actually blushed. But then she put on a more cool expression, biting her lip to hide her smile. “We can discuss the rest of the matter later.” She glanced toward her cousin. “And I am sure there will be much to discuss.”
* * * *
By that point, Mr. Blake had reached Rosalind and Adrian. Rosalind heard his approach and sought to deflect his anger. “I’m sorry I took Poppy here without permission. It was all my fault!”
“Hush, child,” he said. “If you think I’m going to let you take the blame––or credit––for this escapade, you are mistaken. Several people had roles in this.” He looked Lord Norbury up and down. “Were you injured in this highly illegal event as well?” he asked.
“Not at all. Haven’t you heard? It’s like a trial by combat,” Adrian explained wryly. “Heaven protects the righteous.”
Mr. Blake didn’t laugh. “You truly fought for Rosalind’s sake?”
“Yes, and I would again.”
“I have misjudged you, sir,” Mr. Blake said quietly. “I beg your forgiveness.”
“You have it on one condition.” Adrian smiled a bit, and moved even closer to Rosalind. “And I think you know what that condition is.”
Rosalind waited in an agony, then felt her father take her hand. “I’ve only ever wanted to do what is best for you, my dear,” he said. “If I have sheltered you too much, it was out of love.”
“I know that, Papa,” she said warmly.
“Just as I now know you are no longer a child. While I wish your courtship had been a bit more…conventional, I admit it seems heartfelt. So if Lord Norbury offers for you, I have no objection.”
Rosalind glowed with happiness. “Oh, truly? Thank you, Papa. Thank you for understanding!”
“Of course, my dear. Now excuse me. I want to speak to your cousin again.” Using this flimsy excuse, he moved off to give the couple a bit of privacy.
Rosalind turned to Adrian, the smile on her face brighter than any sunshine. “Was there something you wanted to ask me, my lord?”
Adrian caught her waist with his arm and spoke softly next to her ear, the words thrilling her to her toes. “Yes, in fact. I was wondering if you might like to be my wife. The duties aren’t onerous, and there are some benefits to the position.”
