Page 12 of Trapped with the Beastly Duke

“Me? Would that not be an even cruel punishment? She deserves someone who will bring her happiness and joy. A life with me will lead to nothing but misery for us both.” Alexander felt his temper begin to rise.

“Why are you so certain that your company would cause the girl such misery?”

“Look at me, Maxton. What woman would choose to spend her life with this?” Alexander gestured to his face, refusing to look at Nigel as he did so.

“Whether she would choose it or not, it is the most honorable option.” Nigel’s voice was firm. “You are the only one who can fix the situation, my friend. You said yourself that no one else would have her. And it is likely that this scandal will affect her entire family.”

Alexander’s heart sank. “But to force someone so young into a life with?—”

Nigel cut him off. “If you say ‘beast,’ I’m afraid I shall have to thwack you on the head. You are not a beast. You are a most honorable, fiercely loyal man. You are a true friend, and now is a chance for you to prove that you are worthy of your title.”

But perhaps I am not worthy.

“But is it fair to force her into a loveless marriage? To deny her the chance at love? She may still find a love match.”

“Would that we lived in a world where love was all that matters. Yet, you know as well as I do that is not the way of things. No respectable man would have her, not after this. And her sisters will be tarred with the same brush.”

“I suppose a loveless marriage is better than an entire family’s reputation in shambles.” Alexander drummed his fingertips on the carriage wall. “It is better that I at least make the offer, that I attempt to make amends. I shall call on her tomorrow and ask for her hand.”

“Excellent.” Nigel nodded in approval. “You never know, perhaps this will turn out for the best.”

“I wish I shared your optimism, Maxton.” Alexander glanced out the carriage window and saw the throng of guests leaving the house.

“Then I shall have to be optimistic enough for us both.” Nigel made to leave the carriage, turning his head back at the last moment. “Please give my regards to the rest of your family. And know that you are always welcome at Glassley.”

“You know that you are welcome at any of my residences, whenever you wish.” Alexander nodded to his friend. “Thank you, for everything.”

“Think nothing of it, my friend. I am sure I shall see you again soon.” Nigel bowed his head and disappeared into the night.

A moment later, the Dowager Duchess and Olivia arrived.

Olivia smiled sadly at her brother as she sat beside him, while the Dowager Duchess’s face was full of worry.

“Are you well, Brother mine?” Olivia asked softly.

“I have been better.” Alexander tried to smile. “I am sorry that I have ruined your debut.”

Olivia shook her head, smiling kindly. “Brother, it would take more than a scandal to ruin such a night. I danced with many young gentlemen and made the acquaintance of some fine young ladies.”

“Yes, once the Duke of Glassley had broken the ice, it seemed more people came to their senses.” The Dowager Duchess glanced at Alexander, biting her lip as if unsure of what to say. “Actually, I spoke with the Viscountess Cotswalts. She is an… interesting woman. Very astute.”

Rose’s mother.

Alexander cleared his throat. “And I take it you approve of the family?”

“Well, what little I learned during our conversation was satisfying. But I do not suppose it matters what I think. Or, indeed, if I approve of the family.” His mother gave him a frank look. “What are you going to do?”

Alexander sighed. “I will go to the Viscount Cotswalts tomorrow and ask for his daughter’s hand. I will, of course, speak to the girl herself, and if she agrees to the proposal, it shall be done. It is the most honorable course of action.”

Both his mother and sister nodded in agreement.

Olivia squeezed his hand and said, “I knew you would do the right thing. You know, I have heard she is very pretty. And kind.”

“Yes, no one had anything bad to say about her. Well, until…” The Dowager Duchess flushed and looked away. “I am glad you will make it right. I would not wish such pain on anyone.”

But is the pain of a lifetime of loneliness better?

The thought remained on Alexander’s mind as he lay in bed that night. He did not want marriage, did not want to force someone to tie themselves to him body and soul.