Page 26 of Almost A Scoundrel

“More arrogance. What am I to do with you?”

He winked at her. “As you please.”

She snorted. “You will come to regret that statement.”

Deerhurst didn’t doubt it.

“If you don’t mind my asking,” she cast him a glance, “why have you not fallen into the parson’s trap? Undoubtedly, there must be many who have tried to lure you in.”

Deerhurst almost faltered in his step at the question. Memories flashed through his mind, memories he’d rather forget altogether. That part of his life ended years ago, and it had given him clarity and acceptance.

She must have detected something on his face, for she said with a smile, “No need to answer. I should not have pried. I’d rather not listen to all your roguish encounters and how your scoundrel’s heart longs to be free of any entanglements.”

The tension drained from his limbs, and he chuckled. “Absurd.”

Lady Phaedra glanced at the gathering crowd on the outer edges of the dance floor. “I think our plan might work. Everyone is taking note. Perhaps the wolves will turn tail after tonight.”

Deerhurst wasn’t so sure.

He should have pummeled Cromby. That would have made his intentions crystal clear—stay away from Lady Phaedra or else.

The dance ended and Deerhurst led Lady Phaedra from the dance floor. Blatant stares and loud whispers followed them to the corner of the ballroom where refreshments were arranged. Deerhurst supposed they were waiting to see whether he’d whisk her off into a third dance, which would be akin to a marriage proposal.

“Deerhurst, old chap!” Saville stepped into their path. A foxlike grin coated his face. “Are you going to introduce me to your exceptionally beautiful dance partner?”

Deerhurst glared at Saville and made the introduction, whereby he realizedhehad not been formally introduced to Lady Phaedra. She seemed to realize it at the same time as he for her eyes rounded like saucers.

Bloody hell.

Dare he hope no one had realized?

But of course, Saville had, or he wouldn’t be wearing that deuced grin on his face. Deerhurst scowled at him.

“Phaedra Sharp,” Lady Phaedra introduced herself, offering her hand. Deerhurst shook his head. This woman didn’t need anyone to introduce her.

Saville bowed and planted a kiss on her hand, his grin stretching and stretching. “You seem to have enthralled my friend, Lady Phaedra.”

“Don’t you have to keep an eye on your sister?” Deerhurst asked, his tone filled with warning.

“Warrick is keeping her company,” Saville replied easily. “I’m much more intrigued by what is happening on this side of the ballroom.”

“Nothing is happening here.” Deerhurst guided Lady Phaedra, who looked amused, away from Saville. “We are on our way to the refreshments table.”

“Smashing idea,” Saville said. “I could use a drink as well.”

“You weren’t invited.”

Saville waggled his brows. “Well, look who is in a blithesome mood tonight. What does the lady say?”

Deerhurst wanted to throttle his friend.

“Oh, I don’t mind,” Lady Phaedra piped up.

“See, Deerhurst? The lady said she doesn’t mind.”

Deerhurst cursed.

He knew Saville. His friend wasn’t going to let this go. Heaving a long-suffering sigh, he said, “Very well. Let usallhead over to the refreshment table.”