Page 71 of The Earl’s Marriage of Convenience

The thought settled somewhere deep in her chest, unwelcome and unyielding.

He deserved more than that.

More than quiet dismissal. More than being made the reasonable man in a situation he had no power to alter.

But there was no version of this path that did not cost him.

And she—

She had chosen it anyway.

Her chin lifted slightly.

Not lightly. Not without thought. But with clarity.

Because she had learned, long ago, that waiting for a path that harmed no one was merely another way of ensuring one never moved at all.

Satisfied that her appearance struck the proper balance—neither too bold nor too forgettable—she gave a small nod to herself.

It was time.

With that thought firmly in place, she stepped into the Hawthorne carriage and set out for Hyde Park at the fashionable hour of four.

The day unfolded precisely as expected.

Carriages circled the Serpentine. Gentlemen rode along Rotten Row. Ladies strolled in pairs, while clusters of observers claimed benches near the water, ready to watch—and judge.

In many ways, it was more perfect than any ballroom.

A ballroom was invitation.

The park was opportunity.

The more they were seen, the more they would be discussed. And the more they were discussed, the more their story would solidify.

Yes—this was essential.

As her carriage came to a halt, Eliza surveyed the scene with quick, practiced precision.

It was a fine day, and the park was well attended. Ladies rode sidesaddle on elegant mares, their skirts flowing behind them. The rhythmic thunder of hooves echoed along Rotten Row.

She made a few quick mental notes.

Where to begin.

Who would notice.

Who would speak.

There—a cluster of dowagers already engaged in animated conversation.

Perfect.

The carriage door opened.

Lord Devon stood before her, waiting and offering his hand with an easy, confident smile.

He was, she could not deny, remarkably handsome—his light hair catching the sunlight, his blue eyes bright with a natural charm that seemed entirely unstudied. There was something in his manner—open, assured—that put her at ease even as it unsettled her.