Page 68 of Trapped with the Beastly Duke

Before Nigel could say anything, a familiar voice called, “Alexander, is that you?”

Rose stood on the terrace above them, peering down into the darkness. The moonlight illuminated her face, bathing her in an otherworldly light.

She looks like an angel.

For a moment, Alexander could do nothing except stare at her. Then he remembered the way she had looked dancing with the Earl, and something slammed into place inside him.

“I am speaking with Maxton, do not feel the need to stay outside in the cold on my account.” Alexander’s voice sounded cold, distant, even to his own ears.

Rose stiffened. “I was wondering if you might like to dance together.”

Alexander shook his head and turned away from her. “No, I would not. Perhaps you might find a more suitable partner for the evening.”

Rose opened her mouth as though to say something, glanced at Nigel, and then closed it once more. Alexander thought he saw a look pass between them but did not care to decipher it.

“Will you return to the ball? There is not much time left, but I am sure there are one or two more people who we could speak to.” Rose sounded confused, hurt.

Alexander hardened his heart. He had seen what he had denied her. What his selfishness had cost her. He should never have indulged his fantasies.

I should not have believed I could be worthy of her. She is still trying to save my reputation, my family name.

“I will bid our hosts farewell, then wait in the carriage.” Alexander nodded to Rose and then to Nigel. “It was good to see you, Maxton.”

“And you, Rokesby.” Nigel bit his lip, looking as though he wished to say more, but Alexander walked away without giving him the chance.

Alexander had expected Rose to return to the dancing, but she followed after him.

“I said I would wait for you in the carriage.”

“I do not wish to return to the ball without you.” Rose searched his face.

Alexander kept his expression blank. He did not want her to see the ugly jealousy that stirred within him. The entitlement that he had tricked himself into feeling.

Do not expect to keep her.

That seemed less like a threat and more like a prediction of the future. What hope could he have of holding her affection? As they saw more of the ton, as she brought Emberly to life, she would see the truth.

She will understand just how much I lack.

“Very well. Then let us bid farewell to the hosts and return to Emberly.” Alexander deliberately kept his arms out of Rose’s reach, walking just fast enough to keep some distance between them.

Rose frowned as she followed him, and he could see the anger growing within her. It helped fuel his own determination. Let her remain angry with him. Let her rage at his ineptitude.

Better to disappoint her now.

He could not remember the pleasantries they exchanged with their hosts, nor any other words spoken as they made their way into the carriage. Unlike the journey to the ball, Alexander sat on the opposite side of Rose.

“What message did that man give you?” Rose asked, as the silence seemed to stretch between them.

Alexander clenched his fists, remembering the man’s useless message. “It was nothing of any importance.”

“Yet, it kept you from returning to the ball.” Rose reached for his hand, but Alexander drew it away. “And clearly has caused you upset.”

He shook his head. “I am not upset.”

“Then why are you being like this?” Rose’s voice was a mix of confusion and anger.

“I am tired.” Alexander rolled his shoulders.