Page 73 of The Duke’s Unwilling Bride

“You’re right. Well done, my little bluestocking!”

I preen at his praise but take no time to dwell in that happy space. Aristotle only tells me part of it. “What do you suppose he means by that? Are we to look through his books? Perhaps one hides a lever to a false door?”

“That’s a good thought.”

“Oooh. Or maybe the means to secure my place is, in and of itself, hidden in the book?”

“Given the state of your father’s home, that seems more likely. From what I’ve seen of the study and your library, there doesn’t seem to be much room for another hidden room. However, seeing as I am neither an architect nor a master mason, I cannot say for sure.”

Pulling my lower lip in between my teeth, I look again at the words, trying to make sense of this riddle. In truth, I’ve only read some of Aristotle’s works, seeing as those didn’t grab me from the onset. Next to me, Joseph leans down, eyes darting across the paper.

It’s sweet that he aims to help, seeing as he’s not a lover of books, but I dare not say anything or rebuff him. If he’s willing to indulge me in my bookish pursuits, then I cannot chide him for his lack of interest.

“Politics.”

“I beg your pardon?”

He reads the phrase out loud in earnest. “I do believe your father is referring to Aristotle’s book Politics.”

I stare up at my husband in wonder and no small amount of lust. “Are you familiar with Aristotle then?”

Turning, his lips ease up into a sheepish smile. “I wasn’t honest with you about my library. Every book in there is one I’ve chosen and read. One might say we are on par with the number of books we own. But I dare not assume the number read by either of us.”

“So that’s why you weren’t going to burn the library. Not just because you wanted to make a promise to me, but because you yourself are an avid reader. For shame, my dear husband. Whatever will anyone think if they discover that you hold a penchant for the literary word?”

A playful growl vibrates through his chest. “They aren’t going to find out because I know you can keep a secret. Isn’t that right, my good little omega?”

When he talks to me like that, I’m unable to think, unable to even formulate words. It’s unfair that he holds so much sway over me. And yet, arousal thrums through me, making my knees weak. “Anything else you’ve been hiding from me, Your Grace?”

Now, his smile takes on a wolfish appearance. “Only how hard I got when I saw you in my library, surrounded by books, your arousal perfuming the air. It was an erotic experience I’d like to have an encore of, but this time, not while you’re in heat, so you are very well aware of the things I will do to you.”

My heart flutters at his lurid words, however, the intensity of my feelings is only quelled by the dire need to see my father’s words through. Sensing my change of heart through the bond, Joseph straightens, schooling his face into a mask of propriety.

“I know where my father keeps his collection of Aristotle. But I have no way of knowing if Asher has sold it or moved it. Do you suppose he might allow us entrance? Perhaps if we come up with some ruse?”

“My dear, you are still thinking as if you are the daughter of an earl. You are a duchess now. No one will ever deny you entrance. And if they do, I can assure you, it will be pistols at dawn. But have no fear, my love. For I have it on good authority that your cousin is no longer in residence. He is, in fact, a few towns over losing even more coin.”

Frowning, I sink against the desk. “Then we will never get it. Even as a duke and duchess, I’m sure the servants will feel uncomfortable allowing us to traipse through while their master is gone.”

“And that, my dear, is why no one will ever be the wiser.”

“You’re speaking in riddles, and, in truth, I’m still reeling from this one.”

“Come now, you cannot deny your husband a bit of fun.”

“I didn’t think this was your kind of fun.”

“Well, until we have this matter settled, I’m sure you will not be inclined to my manner of fun.”

“I suppose you’re right. Please, just speak plainly, so I may know what’s on your mind. I fear I’m not in a jovial mood.”

With a sigh heavy on his lips, he shakes his head while still giving me a tender smile. “What I’m saying, Your Grace, is that you and I sneak in unawares. You know his staff, yes? What time do they usually settle down?”

“As long as he’s kept on the rapscallions that lurked through the house when I was there. No doubt none are even in residence. The age-old phrase when the cat’s away. They will either be deep in their cups or gallivanting out on the town.”

“Perfect! Tonight then, we will go in hunt of your father’s saving grace.”

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