“I see.” He seemed to mull this over. “So, you are hoping to find a husband during this event?”
Dulcenia’s brows drew together. “I had imagined that to be the case when Lady Osbourne coerced me to come, but now, I’m not exactly sure what will happen.”
He eyed her steadily. “There is still plenty of time to find a match.” He cleared his throat and turned his attention carefully back to his plate. “I, myself, have been considering marrying again. My first wife died of influenza shortly into our union and we never had any issue.” His expression looked slightly forlorn. “I have always entertained the idea of having a second chance.”
Dulcenia’s heart went out to him. In the short time she had known Lord Everly, she knew that he was a kind man and she wished him all the happiness in the world. But that was where it ended. She had no doubt that, given the slightest bit of encouragement, she could gain a proposal from him. Unfortunately, she did not feel anything more for him than a warm fondness. While it could grow into something more with time, the truth was that he didn’t make her heart pound like Lord Dalhousie.
And if this spontaneous journey to this house party had taught her anything, it was that she could not settle for comfort and security.
She wanted passion and desire.
She wantedmore.
Reluctantly, her gaze drifted back to the marquess, and as his glittering gaze caught hers from across the table, her belly instantly swirled with a searing heat.
Blast.She wanted him.
Carew had never beena jealous man in his life, but as he watched Dulcenia and Lord Everly talking so easily and without reservation across from him, he found his fists clenching beside his plate more than once.
Of course, Lady Jane did her best to entertain him, but he was not in the mood to humor her. In truth, hishumorhad quite vanished the moment Miss Hargrove had spurned him for another. She was here to try and gain a proposal fromhim, but she appeared to have forgotten that.
“I daresay, Carew, that you are doing a fantastic job of appearing the devoted swain,” Marcus murmured at his other side. “Even I am convinced that you are falling for the lady.”
He shot the other man a glare. “That is the object, is it not?” he snapped.
“Indeed,” he returned smoothly. “But I have to wonder if it is all just an act.” He took a sip of his wine. “Or perhaps it is that you are finding the matrimonial state not as disparaging as it once was.”
Carew’s jaw tightened. “I would appreciate it if you would keep your opinions to yourself.”
Marcus held up his hands in supplication. “It is merely an observation, not an accusation. I just have to wonder if you intend to keep up your end of our wager, or if you choose to concede defeat.”
“Never.” Even though Carew reluctantly admitted that Miss Hargrove had gotten under his skin, he knew it was only a temporary ailment and once he found a way to purge her from his thoughts, his self-control would be firmly back on track.
And yet…
When he saw her expression brighten by something Lord Everly said, Carew ground his teeth. He wanted to keep all of those flirtatious glances and teasing smiles solely for him. He had never been one inclined to share, and while he had no claims on the lady, he was already starting to chant that single word in his head.
Mine.
When the meal was over and the men were left to their port and conversation while the ladies retired to the parlor, Carew thought it was the perfect time to confront Lord Everly.
Leaving his seat, he walked around the table. He gestured to the seat previously occupied by Miss Hargrove and asked, “Do you mind if I join you?”
Lord Everly smiled in a knowing manner, as if he could sense what was coming and waved a hand. “Of course. My brother tends to discuss politics, but I could do with some lively banter instead.”
Carew said nothing as he slid into the chair.
“I assume this has something to do with Miss Hargove?” When Carew lifted a brow, the other man chuckled softly. “Don’t pretend ignorance. I noticed the way you were glaring at us during dinner.” He shot him a sideways glance. “Besides, I’m older than you, and I’ve played the game longer.”
Carew snorted. He had to give credit to Lord Everly. He was a lot more perceptive than he’d originally assumed, especially for someone who eschewed society as he did.
“How long have you been in love with her?”
Carew nearly fell out of his chair. “Pardon?”
Lord Everly’s gaze was steady on him. “Come now, Lord Dalhousie. I’m not blind. I recognize the signs.”
Carew’s lips turned up at the corners. “I believe you are confusing lust with a deeper emotion.”
