Wed in Disgrace Quotes

“for given he had not yet returned the betrothal agreement to her father, there seemed to be no eagerness on his part to do so or to proceed with their engagement. Mayhap, now that he was of a great and high title, he might find himself a little more interested in the young ladies of the ton and would not feel the need to sign the betrothal agreement at all. It might all come to a very satisfactory close, and she could have the freedom she had always expected. “Augusta!” Lady Elmsworth’s voice was sharp, as though she knew precisely what it was Augusta was thinking. “You will make sure that all of your attention is on your betrothed this evening. Do you understand me?” “We are not betrothed yet, Mama,” Augusta replied a little tartly. “Therefore, I cannot show him any specific attention for fear of what others might say.” She arched one eyebrow and looked at her mother as she turned around, aware she was irritating her parent but finding a dull sense of satisfaction in her chest. “Once the agreement has been sent to Papa, then, of course, I shall do my duty.” She dropped into a quick curtsy, her eyes low and her expression demure, but it did not fool Lady Elmsworth. “You had best be very careful with your behavior this evening, Augusta,” she exclaimed, practically throwing herself from her chair as she rose to her feet, her cheeks a little pink and her eyes blazing with an unexpressed frustration.”
― Rose Pearson, Wed in Disgrace