In Scandal with the Duke Quotes

“Her aunt, a stickler for propriety, had been visibly appalled when she first saw the gown. “A debutante would not wear such colors,” she had chided, her eyes sharp beneath furrowed brows. “This would only be permissible for widows and married women.” Elizabeth had merely smiled and drawled, “I thought I was collecting dust motes. Never say I am once again a fresh-faced debutante. The English air has indeed done wonders. I daresay I no longer feel decrepit.” “You are facetious! We will need a new wardrobe with more demure—” her aunt had begun, her voice a mix of exasperation and concern. “No,” Elizabeth had cut her off, her tone resolute and firm. “Once, I listened to everyone about what I needed in a husband. I wore clothes my mother thought appropriate. I confined my opinions on subject matters deemed appropriate for women, subdued my laughter, and my wealth was paraded before me like a beacon. This time, Aunt, my search for a husband will be on my terms.”
― Stacy Reid, In Scandal with the Duke