Page 42 of Wedded to the Duke of Seduction

Marina’s expression tightened slightly. “I appreciate the offer, but I don’t want to begin our marriage by owing you more money.”

“You’re my wife,” Leo said firmly. “Your appearance reflects on our house now. Besides, I can well afford it.”

“Even so?—”

“Marina.” Leo cut her off gently. “This isn’t about control or obligation. It’s practical. You’ll be expected to attend functions appropriate to your station, and you’ll need the proper attire.” He softened his tone. “Consider it part of our arrangement if you must.”

She seemed to struggle with this for a moment before nodding. “Very well. But nothing extravagant.”

“As you wish.” Leo hid his amusement.

Most women of his acquaintance would have seized the opportunity to order an entirely new wardrobe without hesitation. Marina’s hesitation about accepting what she saw as charity revealed just how fiercely she guarded her independence.

“Oh, and I should let you know,” Leo added, “I plan to meet with Mr. Giles tomorrow morning.”

Marina stiffened. “Why?”

“To settle your late husband’s debt of course.”

“I would prefer not to be here for that meeting,” she said quickly. “The man is odious.”

“You needn’t be,” Leo assured her. “In fact, I would rather handle him alone. Men like Giles respond best to direct threats from those they perceive as equals or superiors.”

Marina raised an eyebrow. “Threats, Your Grace?”

“Merely a firm reminder of the consequences should he ever think to approach you again,” Leo clarified though in truth, helooked forward to putting fear into the man who had caused Marina such distress.

“I see.” Marina’s lips curved into a small, satisfied smile. “In that case, I wish you success with your reminder.”

Leo returned her smile and was struck by the sense of shared purpose in their exchange.

For a brief moment, it felt almost like a real marriage—two people united against a common enemy.

The thought bothered him more than he liked. This was only a marriage of convenience, nothing else. He needed to keep that clear.

“There’s something else,” Leo said, taking the deed from his desk. “I have transferred the Mount Street house into your name.”

Marina’s eyes widened as she accepted the paper. “But why? I don’t need it anymore.”

“It’s yours now. Lease it for extra income, use it as a quiet place to write—whatever you wish. Or just keep it as security.”

She stared down at the document, clearly taken aback. “I don’t know what to say.”

“You don’t need to say anything.” Leo stood abruptly, turning toward the window, uneasy with the emotion in her voice. “It’s merely practical.”

“Still, I’m grateful,” Marina said quietly. “Few men would be so… considerate under the circumstances.”

Leo turned back to her, struck by the genuine appreciation in her expression. “I am not most men, Marina. I think you’ve discovered that already.”

“Yes,” she agreed, meeting his gaze steadily. “I believe I have.”

The moment stretched between them, filled with unspoken acknowledgments. Then Marina rose, carefully folding the deed.

“I should rest before dinner,” she said. “The day has been rather overwhelming.”

“Of course.” Leo moved to open the door for her. “I’ll see you at seven.”

As she passed him, the subtle scent of roses drifted from her hair and stirred memories of their encounter in the library.