Page 65 of Wicked Highland Heroes

Dawning realization crept over Eve. “Do you mean you intend…” She couldn’t finish.

“Intend what?”

“Despite his own debauched ways, I seriously Lord Rushton will countenance a wife who takes lovers,” Eve said in a very low whisper.

Grace shrugged. “I’ll give him the required heir first, and perhaps a spare, if he proves a worthy enough distraction.”

“Distraction?” Eve couldn’t imagine Lord Rushton as a distraction. The man demanded attention and got it.

“He will make the perfect diversion for bored nights at home and there is no danger of me falling in love with him.” Grace screwed up her face. “That would be a terrible snag in my plan—and heaven forbid he should decide he loves me.”

“I don’t believe you,” Eve said. “A woman whose husband loves her is very fortunate.”

“Men who are in love feel the need to order their wives about,” Grace said. “And they hover. Oh, but that is tiresome. Have you seen the way Katherine’s husband constantly hovers? Lord, he won’t let her out of his sight.”

“Katherine is heavy with child,” Eve said. “Lord Branson is an anxious father-to-be.”

Grace shook her head “I have no intention of allowing a man to shackle me. Lord Rushton is not likely to wax sentimental. But he is quite handsome and experienced. I expect we shall enjoy one another quite a lot before we grow bored enough to resort to civilities.”

“My God,” Eve breathed, suddenly understanding. “You…you are just like him.”

Grace gave her a ‘you poor dear’ look, and said, “Of course I am.”