Page 14 of Wagering for Miss Blake (Lords and Ladies in Love 4)

Then his words when I want something, I do everything in my power to win brought her up sharp. She’d already learned his kisses were powerful, and apt to make her forget herself—and her mother’s admonishment.

The best way to discourage Mr. Templeton was to avoid him as much as possible. With the Season in full swing that would not be easy, but if Mother learned of Mr. Templeton’s interest in her, there would be hell to pay.

Mr. Templeton had made it clear, more than once, that he did not accept discouragement. Or defeat.

If possible, the rout was more crowded than when they’d left. She couldn’t bear to suffocate in there again. She turned toward him. “I believe I will attempt to find Lady Montford and request we return home.”

Apparently, he saw something in her demeanor as his eyes swept over her face. “Do not distress yourself. I will find Lady Montford and request your carriage be brought around. Stay out here, next to the well-lit area, and I will return when all is ready.”

Despite herself, she could not help but notice his broad shoulders, trim hips, and long legs as he passed through the French doors and made his way among the clusters of guests. Even his gait conveyed confidence and power. As she watched him stop to speak with Lord Stirling, she admired the curls that teased the back of his cravat. Much longer than fashionable, but perfect on him.

Whatever was she to do? She couldn’t ask her new cousin-in-law, the duke, to speak with Mr. Templeton about his intentions. She cringed at the thought of asking His Grace to discourage his friend because he didn’t have a title. It would make her look so shallow.

If only she weren’t attracted to the man. Then she could easily dismiss him and slap his face if he attempted to kiss her again. In the past, she’d had no trouble discouraging other would-be suitors. A small voice inside her head scoffed—she did not want to discourage him. That was the problem. But she would, since Mother would be livid if she learned of his intentions.

She sighed. What a dilemma he’d caused her, and once again she bemoaned the life she lived in Society. After about ten minutes, Lady Montford came through the French door. “My dear, are you all right? Mr. Templeton said you weren’t feeling well.”

Suzanna linked her arm with her chaperone. “It’s just a bit too packed in here for me. Ever since I was a small girl and got lost in the overcrowded marketplace, I’ve been unsettled in large crowds. I feel much better now, but I prefer to return home.

“However, I don’t wish to spoil your evening. I can take the carriage by myself and send it back for you.”

“No, dear. I won’t allow that. Mr. Templeton is requesting our carriage to be readied, and it should be at the front of the house by the time we make it through this throng. Truth be known, I would enjoy some time at home with his lordship.” She winked at Suzanna, reminding her that Eunice and her husband had a love match. Eunice tugged slightly on their joined arms, and they moved through the crowd to the front entrance.

Mr. Templeton stood there, and as soon as he spotted them, he walked forward, concern in his eyes. “Are you feeling better?”

“Yes. I am sure I will be fine once we are on our way.”

Lady Montford smiled warmly and held out her hand to Mr. Templeton. “Thank you so much for your help this evening. Do call on us during our calling hours tomorrow. We will be delighted to see you.”

“Thank you, my lady. I will definitely be there.” With a slight bow, and a grin at Suzanna, he turned and left.

Wonderful. Just what I need. Lady Montford taken in by Giles’s charm.

…

The next afternoon, Giles straightened the cuffs of his jacket as he stepped out of his landau in front of Suzanna’s house. Even if she did not allow it spoken aloud, he would think of her as Suzanna and not Miss Blake from now on.

After her reaction to their kiss last night, he was thrilled with his progress, and firmly believed her insistence on a title was questionable. She may say she wanted only a man with a title, but she truly didn’t believe so.

“My lady, Mr. Templeton,” the butler announced, and Giles entered the drawing room. Lady Montford offered him a huge smile, and Suzanna scowled. He held in his laugh and headed straight to the two women.

“My lady, you are looking splendid, as usual.” He bowed over his hostess’s hand, then turned to Suzanna. “Miss Blake, a pleasure.”

“I am so happy you called, Mr. Templeton.” Lady Montford waved her hand in Suzanna’s direction. “Won’t you have a seat next to my cousin, and enjoy a bit of tea?”

He flipped back his coattails and set

tled next to Suzanna on the sofa. The woman on Lady Montford’s other side, Miss Grant, said something to his hostess, gaining her attention. Giles used the distraction to lean closer to Suzanna. “You are looking much improved from last evening. And aren’t you happy I came to call?”

She raised her cute little chin and regarded him. “It matters not to me whether you call or not. As I told you, your attentions on me are wasted.”

He reached out and took the cup and saucer from Lady Montford, nodding his thanks. She resumed her conversation with Miss Grant.

“If I recall, you’ve stated an interest in attentions only from a man with a title.”

Suzanna gave him a tight smile. “That is correct. So, you see, your attentions are superfluous.”

Her cheeks were flushed and her eyes bright. Her delectable breasts rose and fell rapidly. He loved when he rattled her. Anger and denial, he could work with. Apathy and indifference would be deadly to his cause.