Page 64 of Trapped with the Beastly Duke

“You flatter me.” Rose felt a twinge of discomfort as he looked at her. “I am sure I look no more or less than I did when we last met.”

Lord Verimoor laughed. “Oh, how I enjoy your modesty. It is on par with your beauty. The belle of any room you are in. Truly, we would have been a perfect match.”

Rose wasn’t sure what to say but felt her discomfort grow. However, Lord Verimoor seemed unaware of this. As they made a circle, Rose risked a glance at the entrance, but there was still no sign of Alexander.

What is taking him so long?

Rose and Lord Verimoor continued to dance, and the Earl, unfortunately, continued to speak.

“It is such a shame that someone as wonderful as you has had to give up such a chance at happiness.” Lord Verimoor shook his head. “I would have made you the happiest woman alive, the envy of everyone in the country. Everywhere we went, people would have watched us in adoration, wishing they were half as beautiful as us.”

“I have not given up a chance at happiness.” Rose felt a prickle of annoyance, but before she could say anything else, he spoke again.

“Oh, my dearest, sweet Duchess. Of course, you have. It is admirable to put on such a brave face, but you need not do sowith me.” Lord Verimoor’s eyes glittered. “I should have been your husband.”

Rose felt his grip on her hand tighten. She could smell something sweet and sour as they danced, and she felt her annoyance rise. “You presume much, Lord Verimoor. You assume I would have chosen you above everyone else in the land?”

Lord Verimoor seemed not to notice the coldness in her voice. “Of course. You were the Diamond of the Season. And I… well, I am me. Who would not choose to be with someone like me?”

I forgot just how highly he thinks of himself. Does he think it is only looks that matter to women?

Rose swallowed down her anger with difficulty. She was still a lady, after all, and she should not cause a scene.

I wish Alexander was here.

“I do not think this kind of talk is particularly appropriate. I am married, after all.”

“Come now, you do not have to pretend with me. You werestolen. Stolen by some maimed duke who has not only taken you from me but the rest of Society as well.” Lord Verimoor laughed derisively. “And while you do your best to feign contentment, it is clear that you are not truly happy. Not with a man likethat.”

“And what would you know of it?” Rose’s temper flared.

“What anyone with eyes could see. He clearly does not deserve you. He is more man than beast. Why, I am surprised the ape can string more than two words together, let alone whole sentences.” Lord Verimoor’s tone was dismissive. “You should not be his. You should be with someone who is your equal, who deserves you. Do you not see how everyone looks at us and admires us?”

Rose did not bother to look around. She did not care if half the ton was looking at her with admiration.

I do not care about being admired or adored by anyone… except Alexander.

The thought hit her like a bolt of lightning and seemed to snap something inside of her. The dam holding her anger back crumbled, and she stopped, causing Lord Verimoor to stumble.

I do not want to dance with anyone but Alexander. I would rather never dance again than dance with another.

She took a step away from Lord Verimoor, even as he reached to grasp her hand once more. “I have had enough dancing for an evening. Thank you.”

“Oh come, Miss Pembleton—” Lord Verimoor began, but his words broke her last ounce of self-restraint.

Fury unfurled within her, and she held up a hand, cutting him off. “I amYour Graceto you, Lord Verimoor. I am married to the Duke of Emberly, and whatever your thoughts on the matter, I find they are of little significance to me.”

Her voice shook with rage, but she did not let it rise to a shout. “The Duke is a kind, caring, compassionate man. He is fiercely loyal and protective of those he loves. He is funny and charming. His scar is a mark of his bravery.”

Lord Verimoor snorted, but Rose could see the fury in his eyes.

Let him be angry. Why would I care for this arrogant man?

“My marriage has been a gift. It has shown me that I would rather be with someone who has a beautiful soul than another whose handsome face hides something much more unpleasant beneath.

“Whatever you believe about my happiness or my life, let me assure you that I am happier and more fulfilled than I had ever thought possible. You may not understand or even wish to understand the wonderful man my husband is, but that is your loss. And quite frankly, I am not something to be owned or won. My husband understands this and respects this.”

Rose turned away from the Earl. “I am a person, and I have no wish to spend any more time with someone who spends his time putting down people he does not know. Good evening, Lord Verimoor.”