Just a Kiss Read Online Free PDF Page B

for the other one, Oscar likes her very much, and he’s an excellent judge of character.”
    Sebastian met her gaze. “Oscar doesn’t like anyone.”
    “As I said, he’s an excellent judge of character.” She pulled the dog into her lap and smoothed a tuft of fur beneath his collar.
    Knowing he had no hope of winning this argument, Sebastian bowed out. He gave Oscar a pat on the head. The beast growled at him. Unfortunately, Gran wasn’t finished yet.
    “Since you haven’t found anyone to strike your fancy yet, perhaps you could show your favor for Princess Tarasova and Miss Lightwood. Throw them into the path of other men so they are sure to make advantageous matches.”
    Her suggestion was so similar to the proposition he’d offered Miss Lightwood, it gave Sebastian pause. He cleared his throat. “Gran, I know I promised you I would find a suitable bride this season, but surely you don’t expect me to choose one of your new favorites?”
    “Don’t be ridiculous,” she said, smoothing the lap robe over her legs. “I’ve long since given up hope you will ever follow any of my suggestions. Besides, surely the Earl of Marley cannot marry a destitute, untitled girl, can he? No matter how pleasing she might be. However, he can help her to find an appropriate suitor. Of course, the princess won’t have any trouble making a match, but being unfamiliar with our society, I’m sure she could use some guidance.”
    He crossed his arms. Lost in her zeal to meddle in the affairs of others, Gran conveniently forgot that the princess was the niece of an influential duke. “What, precisely, do you wish me to do with them?”
    She shrugged. “Dance with them. Be seen with them in the park. Discuss them with your acquaintances. Use your influence to help them secure good matches.”
    “I believe you are overestimating my influence and underestimating your own. I’m certain you could have them both betrothed by the end of the week if you applied yourself.”
    “Balderdash.” She whacked her fan against the seat. “You must show them your favor to attract the notice of others.”
    “Very well, Gran. I am at your disposal. I shall seek them out at every available opportunity.” Gran’s lids fluttered shut, giving Sebastian time to contemplate the evening. Or so he thought.
    “Oh, and you will have to invite Miss Lightwood and Princess Tarasova to a house party at Marley. And host a ball while they are there,” she ordered without opening her eyes.
    “Naturally.” Though he found Miss Lightwood captivating, he could not forget his duty to his title. Princess Tarasova was beautiful, wealthy, and would be an ideal countess. He would do what was expected of him.

Chapter Four
    Amelia took a sip of her tea and gazed at Charlotte expectantly. “What about Lord Ravensdale? I’ve heard he’s quite wealthy.”
    Charlotte walked to the sideboard to add more eggs to her plate, nodding to the footman stationed at the door as she passed. “Well, aside from the fact that he’s a known rake, he frightens me. His lips are too thin, and his eyes are set too closely together. He reminds me of a bird of prey.” She sat across from Amelia.
    “Perhaps you’ve discerned the origin of his family name.” Amelia dabbed her mouth with a serviette. “Nevertheless, I think it’s safe to remove him from the list. What about Lord Sunderland?”
    “He seems nice enough, but I believe he must marry for money.” Charlotte spread a generous portion of jam on her toast.
    “Then we’ll cross him off the list as well. Isn’t there anyone you like who’s capable of supporting you?”
    Heat rushed to Charlotte’s face.
    Amelia grinned like a small child who had just been given a chocolate biscuit. “I knew it! Who is it?”
    “Lord Marley, but he…” She stopped speaking as someone approached the door.
    Elizabeth stormed in. “Do you actually think Lord Marley will make an offer for you?” She sat at the head of the table.