An Offer From a Gentleman (Bridgertons, #3)

by Julia Quinn

“I want—” His voice dropped to a whisper, and his eyes looked vaguely surprised, as if he couldn’t quite believe the truth of his own words. “I want your future. I want every little piece of you.”

“I would allow my children to marry paupers if it would bring them happiness.” Benedict raised a brow. “They would be well-principled and hardworking paupers, of course,” Violet explained. “No gamblers need apply.”

“I think I have to kiss you,” he said, looking as if he couldn’t quite believe his own words. “It’s rather like breathing. One doesn’t have much choice in the matter.”

“Be mine,” he said, his voice thick and urgent. “Be mine right now. Be mine forever. I’ll give you anything you want. All I want in return is you.”

“I can live with you hating me,” he said to the closed door. “I just can’t live without you.”

“—I am of the opinion that the reason we are not allowed access is that if we were, we would trounce you men in all subjects!”