The Duke Gets Desperate (Sirens in Silk #1)

by Diana Quincy

“The contents of the will have proven upsetting to His Grace.”

“Who’s Grace?”

His Grace’ is how one refers to a duke.”

Strick stared at her. “Is it possible that you don’t know?”

“I do not believe I was speaking to you.”

She looked at Combs. “To what is Grace referring?”

Combs pressed his lips inward. “The Duke of Strickland is referred to as His Grace, not Grace. And His Grace is referring to the fact that the late Duchess of Strickland has left her castle to you.”

“I am sorry but—” “There is no need to apologize,” he interrupted. “We’ll put this silly idea behind us and forget you ever mentioned it.”

“No, you don’t understand. I am not apologizing.”

“You aren’t?” “Absolutely not. I was not asking you if I could open the castle to paying visitors.” Her solemn gaze met his. “I am telling you.” “I beg...

“Yes, but there are a number of other diversions in Town. The same cannot be said about Tremayne.” “Not yet, anyway,” she countered. “But the same people who come to see the castle might be interested in perusing your collection. Two attractions in the same place could entice more tourists to visit.”

Two attractions in the same place could entice more tourists to visit.” “Good God, you’re serious.” He was beginning to understand why people found Americans crass. “Do you never miss an opportunity to come up with yet another moneymaking scheme?”

“Carrying on?” Outrage flushed through her. “You are delusional.” His nostrils flared. “I saw what I saw.” “Then I would suggest you get yourself some spectacles!”

His nostrils flared. “I saw what I saw.” “Then I would suggest you get yourself some spectacles!”

“This attraction between us is a curse.”

“The very idea is repulsive.”

“An ocean would not be far enough away,” he growled, “to relieve myself of the affliction of you.”

“I am not the sort of woman who bolts when confronted by something distasteful.”

She pressed her body against his. She ached for him. “We ought to stay a million miles away from each other.” He kissed her neck. “We’ve lost our minds.” “Clearly.” She lifted her chin to give him better access. “I don’t even like you.” He nipped her neck. Pleasure shivered through her. “I detest you.” “You are far too opinionated.” “And, of course, you prefer women to be quiet and submissive.” His hand slid to her breast. “Apparently not.”

“There is?” Relief loosened her muscles. He must have come to the same conclusion as Auntie Majida. They couldn’t continue living under the same roof. “I hope you don’t find it too disagreeable.” “I assure you that I do not. It would be my honor.” She scrunched up her face. “It would?” “Most certainly. And I think the sooner the better.” “I agree.” “Do you?” he said. “I am relieved.” “As am I.” Well, that had gone much better than she expected. “When do you plan to move out?” At the same time, he said, “I shall speak to the vicar about marrying us posthaste.” “What?” she said. “I beg your pardon?” he uttered at the same time. “Marry?” she spluttered. “Move out?” he asked. They stared at each other.