Page 62 of The Earl’s Marriage of Convenience

“I cannot read his expression from here,” Edwin continued, “but I do not believe this was what he expected.”

“I would not trust that assumption,” Eliza replied softly.

“No,” he agreed. “Nor would I.”

She lowered her gaze briefly, then lifted it again with a soft, practiced smile. “I share your assessment,” she said. “But I will confirm it. When we turn.”

He inclined his head almost imperceptibly.

As the music carried them through the next rotation, he guided her seamlessly—his gaze fixed upon her, his expression unchanged.

When she returned to him, he welcomed her with a warmth that would appear entirely genuine.

“Did you see anything?” he asked quietly.

“Yes,” she said. “He is recalculating. This was not anticipated. We have gained an advantage.”

A small one—but it was enough.

“I have not yet seen my sister,” Edwin said after a moment. “That may prove … more eventful.”

Eliza’s lips curved faintly. “Something lighthearted would be welcome.”

“She will be lighthearted,” Edwin replied. “But not necessarily discreet. We should wait until we have privacy.” He grinned slightly. “She has never been known for subtlety.”

Eliza narrowed her eyes playfully. “I shall tell her you said so.”

“Already conspiring against me?” he returned. “I begin to see how this partnership will unfold.”

He nearly added more—something careless, something far too familiar.

For the rest of our lives.

The thought lingered, unspoken.

Too soon.

Too real.

Eliza’s expression sharpened slightly, as though she had sensed it.

He was grateful for her intuition.

If nothing else, they were aligned in mind—moving along the same lines of thought, anticipating one another with unsettling ease.

It was, he reflected, a fortunate foundation.

“The waltz is ending,” Edwin murmured. “I shall hold you a moment longer. Do not pull away.”

A few measures later, the music held a long note and ended.

Eliza allowed her eyes to close briefly, as though still caught in the lingering notes. Then she opened them, meeting his gaze with warmth.

He held her.

One count.

Two.