An Offer From a Gentleman

“I can live with you hating me,” he said to the closed door. “I just can’t live without you.”

“You bloody fool,” he swore. “Do you have any idea how dangerous it is in the world for a woman alone?”

“Er, yes,” she managed. “Actually, I do.”

“You’re blushing,” he accused.

“No, I’m not.”

“Yes,” he said, “you are.”

“If I’m blushing,” she replied pertly, “it’s because I’m wondering why you would think you had any reason to apologize.”

“You have a rather smart mouth for a servant,” he said.

“I’m sorry,” Sophie said quickly. She had to remember her place. But that was hard to do with this man, the one member of the ton who had treated her—if only for a few hours—as an equal.

“I meant it as a compliment,” he said. “Do not stifle yourself on my account.”

She said nothing.

“I find you rather . . .” He paused, obviously searching for the correct word. “Refreshing.”

Mrs. Crabtree beamed. “Doesn’t she look smashing?”

“Oh, yes,” Benedict replied, lips twitching.

Sophie glared at him.

"I love you," she whispered. "I've always loved you."

name was Benedict Bridgerton, he had seven brothers and sisters, was rather skilled with both a sword and a sketching crayon, and he always kept his eyes open for the one woman who had touched his soul.

"If you think that's everything, then you probably wouldn't understand why I must refuse."

mine right now. Be mine forever. I'll give you anything you want. All I want in return is you."

"It is not my habit to remain in the company of people who insult me."

He loved her. Suddenly the world was a very simple place. He loved her, and that was all that mattered.