A Lady of Conscience (Somerset Stories, #5)

by Mimi Matthews

“You’re refusing me?” Hannah’s stomach quivered. Good gracious, she was, wasn’t she? “I believe I must.” “Why must you?” “I don’t belong in your world, sir.” “I should think that I am the best judge of that.” “And you have indeed judged it so. You admit yourself that you’ve struggled. That you’ve had misgivings.” “Not about your character, or about the basic suitability—the admiration that I—” He broke off, seeming to collect himself. A muscle pulsed in his cheek. “My doubts have been confined to your ability to move in fashionable society. Part of my life must naturally be in town. Your shyness won’t serve you there. You will have to develop confidence to succeed in London.” “I don’t wish to move in London society.” “I shall guide you,” he assured her. “I’m confident you’ll rise to the challenge.” “Guide me,” she repeated. “It worked well for us when we danced together.” Hannah shook her head. She recognized his intentions were well meant. Even so, he didn’t understand. “Marriage isn’t a waltz,” she said. “It’s a partnership. I don’t desire to be led. And I don’t desire to change into something I’m not. When I marry, it will be to a gentleman who values me as I am.”