The Gentleman’s Guide to Getting Lucky (Montague Siblings, #1.5)

by Mackenzi Lee

Felicity, unimpressed by my pounce, retrieves my book, shakes the sand out from between its pages, then returns it to me with a disapproving scowl, as if I am the one behaving inappropriately by dropping a book, when it’s she who is shouting about my sex life.

“I mean I’ve got a reputation for running around a lot, and Percy thinks I know what I’m doing.” “Well, you do. Don’t you?” She actually looks up at me for the first time, overtop of her spectacles. “Dear Lord, you haven’t been a virgin all this while, have you?” “No, but I’m a bit concerned my virginity is starting to grow back.”

“You know, dress up the flat a little. Get some good wine and nice-smelling perfume and spread rose petals about.” “Roses make Percy sneeze.” “Well then, we shall substitute very finely chopped potatoes.” “You’re such a romantic.” Her chin rises. “Do you want my help or not?” “The idea of you helping me with this in any way is upsetting.” “Fine.” She turns the page, though it’s almost certainly just for the drama of it. “Remain virtuous and frustrated.”

“Come on.” He snuffles his face into my shoulder, which I think he’s trying to disguise as affection when really he’s using me as a towel.

I had kissed my fair share of lads who had only used me as a counterpoint to their own virtue. My primary contribution to our circles back home had been making everyone else feel grounded and well-behaved in comparison.

I felt his breath against the back of my neck when he leaned in, nose brushing the top of my spine, and I was sure he would whisper something soft and romantic, or, even better, perhaps an invitation to have him right then and there. But instead he whispered, “Monty . . . are you flexing?” “What?” Thank God it was dark, for I felt myself go red to my toes. “Of course not.” “Christ, you are shameless.” “Well, I’m trying to impress you!”