Page 2 of Courting the Duke (Reimagined Regency #2)

“I have a sanctuary for birds, and yes, I have a few exotic birds. Should Lady Roxanne be interested, the aviary is open to both of you. Over the years, I’ve rehabilitated countless birds, from a rather snappy parrot to the common wren.

” His pride and enthusiasm were evident in his voice, affecting her in a way she hadn’t expected.

“I will inform her of your generous offer.” The mention of her charge’s name brought Serena back to her purpose in the library.

Although she enjoyed their conversation, it was time for her to leave.

That he’d spoken with her revealed his warmth.

Roxanne should consider herself fortunate to marry him.

“Thank you for allowing me the use of one of your books.”

“You have neglected to choose one.” He used his free hand to point to the extensive collection of books behind him, his wide shoulders straining against his brown coat. Pretty Boy remained on his arm, his eyes closed in contentment.

“No, you are correct.” While she wished to escape the awkwardness caused by her statement, she could also gain some insightful information about him.

Since Serena planned to take a position as Roxanne’s secretary to assist her with managing the household accounts and overseeing the staff, she saw an opportunity to help her cousin along. “Do you have a recommendation?”

“I would recommend every book in the library. However, I have acquired a new volume that my aunt and cousins have found enjoyable.” Hoxton spun around, searching until he found his target. He selected a thin book from the shelf, nodded in approval, and then offered it to her.

“ The Natural History of Birds in Scotland ?” Opening it, she saw a lovely illustration of a wren. Smiling at his selection, she nodded. “What a pretty guide. Thank you.”

“It is quite engaging.” His face flushed a little, and his smile turned surprisingly bashful. “If you enjoy birds, that is. If it is not to your liking, you can choose another book more suited to your tastes.”

“I do like birds, well, not all birds, I am afraid. My grandmother used to have a very nasty parakeet who was fond of pecking anyone who dared get near him. He drew blood several times, and I learned to avoid him.” She came for a novel, but seeing how much the book meant to him, she couldn’t refuse it.

Perhaps she could use the book to educate Roxanne on the types of birds, so that she could pepper them into their conversations.

“Birds can be unpredictable when they feel threatened.”

“Indeed, one rotten apple shouldn’t spoil the entire bushel.” Weighing the book in her palm, she gripped the spine. “I look forward to reading it.”

Rapscallion flapped his wings, startling her once more. The bird turned its head to the door as it opened, the sound of voices cutting into the once quiet room. A manservant entered, glancing from Serena to Hoxton.

“Your Grace, her Ladyship, the Dowager Marchioness, has requested you join the party on the south lawn,” the manservant said.

Hoxton’s Aunt Imogene, widow of his late uncle the marquess, was hosting the party, and no kinder lady could be found. Serena clutched the book to her chest. “I shall leave you then. Good day, Your Grace.”

“Are you not coming?” Hoxton asked, appearing genuinely upset over her abandonment.

“I had no plans to.” If she said yes, she’d lose her precious time off. Except if she said no, she’d be able to spend more time with him. She cut the thought short. “Roxanne is with her mother and I…”

Understanding lit his eyes, along with regret. “Can the servants not take care of your duties?”

Surely, she had imagined the last bit. Serena gently bit her inner cheek, shielding her damaged face from his view.

She was uncertain how to escape the situation.

It was unheard of to dismiss a duke, especially in her position.

“I am hardly dressed for the event.” She acknowledged her own words with a nod.

Despite her disinterest in social gatherings, she was often obligated to attend them because of Roxanne.

Serena’s love for her cousin didn’t negate her assigned role, however difficult it was.

“Nonsense, you look presentable.” Hoxton extended his arm, a silent invitation for her to rest her hand within its bend. “I insist you enjoy yourself. Although I am not sure how enjoyable the event will be. They can be rather stuffy.”

“And yet you wish me to suffer with you.” Her cheeky comment startled him.

He blinked several times before lowering his arm in contrition. “Good God, you are correct. How insensitive of me. If you have no wish to go, I will not push you further.”

“Thank you,” Serena said. His words tempted her to agree.

She merely nodded, resisting the urge to say yes.

Seldom did she converse with a nobleman of such high standing as a duke.

Granted, her uncle was a viscount, a grand title in his own right.

Somehow, it felt different. Perhaps because her uncle was familiar.

Her aunt, however, would never approve of Serena being alone with the duke and would berate her unmercifully if she found out.

With a firm grip, she held the book in her hand, her good mood disrupted by the thought of her aunt’s wrath. “You had best hurry, Your Grace.”

“Good day, Miss Deburgiak.” With a bow to her, he straightened, a curl falling over his forehead. While five years her senior, he had looked much older than his years until now. Her heart fluttered at the sight. Turning his back to her, he left the library.

“Good day, your grace,” she said on a breathy sigh, chastising herself for her blatant flirtation with him.

If all went as planned, he would propose to her cousin.

Once they wed, Serena would help her cousin run the Duke’s household.

She’d blend into obscurity, living in the lap of luxury while being in service.

She straddled two worlds but didn’t fit into either .