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    “That was fun. We’ll have to practice more tomorrow.” Sybil linked her arm with hers. “It’s time for luncheon, so I think we’d better hurry or Mother will come searching for us.”
    …
    Drake continued on toward the library, moving as quickly as possible from Penelope. The girl had him tied in knots. When he took her in his arms, he became very aware of her warmth and softness. Her deep green eyes peered at him, searching his face with such trepidation he had the overwhelming need to pull her closer and assure her everything would be all right. No doubt that was the reason he’d snapped at Sarah when she’d suggested they didn’t need to practice the waltz.
    “Socially inept” didn’t even begin to describe the girl. She’d stomped all over his feet, kept turning in the wrong direction, and seemed to have some sort of an issue with her face that she tried, unsuccessfully, to hide from him. He settled in the chair behind his desk and stared blankly at the papers that covered the blotter.
    He shook off any further thoughts of their guest and picked up a report. Penelope was his mother’s problem, not his. He had his own matter of selecting a bride this year, and nothing would deter him from that. He didn’t have the time or desire to take on a fledgling and guide her through her Season. Not that such a thing would be expected, of course. His mother was her sponsor and his sisters would champion her. As requested, he’d honor his mother’s wishes and introduce some acceptable gentlemen to the chit and then leave her to her own devices.
    He laid the report down and his thoughts drifted to Lady Daphne, Lord Sirey’s daughter. His tightened muscles immediately relaxed. She was the epitome of grace and charm, and would make an excellent Duchess of Manchester. He’d watched her during the Reynolds’ Christmas house party that she’d attended with her parents back in December.
    She had been quite successful during her Season last year, but from what he’d heard, she’d turned down several offers. Her eyes had followed him at the house party, leading him to believe there was definite interest on her part. If things worked out the way he planned, he would court her, and make an offer at the end of the Season, perhaps followed by a fall wedding.
    There would be no surprises with the likes of Lady Daphne. She would always do the right thing. His life would run smoothly. The “ice queen” some in the ton had tagged her. Perhaps. But he didn’t need great passion in his wife. As his duchess, they would have a perfect existence, with perfect children. Then he would feel secure in his new role, able to administer his duties, and fill the very large shoes his father had left behind.
    You’ll never be able to do it, you know.
    “Are you joining us for luncheon?” Sarah tapped lightly on the library door and stuck her head in. “Or did Penelope wear you out?”
    “No, she did not at all wear me out. And I will not be joining you for luncheon since I have an appointment, and I’m already late.” He shoved his chair back and stood.
    “She really is very sweet, you know.”
    “Who?” As if he didn’t know. He shuffled papers on his desk, avoiding his sister’s stare.
    “Penelope. You should have seen her at the dressmaker yesterday. I’m sure she never spent much time selecting clothing. She was completely lost. But wait until you see how beautiful her gown will be.”
    “Well, yes, I’m sure it’s wonderful. Now if you will excuse me—”
    “And then Lady Daphne was very rude and laughed when Penelope walked into an awkwardly misplaced table.”
    Drake stiffened at the reference to Lady Daphne.
    “She could learn a lesson or two about not laughing at someone’s mistakes.”
    “I’m sure you misunderstood. Lady Daphne is a gentlewoman. She would never do anything to make someone uncomfortable. Why, she is the perfect example of a true lady, someone whose mannerisms you would do well to