Page 73 of The Earl’s Marriage of Convenience

“It did,” she replied. “Though I must confess I was terribly indolent this morning and slept through breakfast.”

She glanced at him from beneath her lashes—an expression that, to any observer, would appear flirtatious.

“Well then,” he said, leaning closer, “I shall tell you a secret.”

“I do love a secret.”

“I slept through breakfast as well.”

She laughed again—this time more freely, allowing the sound to carry.

Let them wonder.

Let them speculate.

As though sensing her intent, Edwin lifted her hand and pressed a light kiss to her wrist.

“You are entirely charming, Lady Eliza,” he said. “And I am most grateful to share my secrets with you.” He held her gaze just a fraction too long—

Then released her, as though remembering himself.

Perfect.

“Well done,” she murmured under her breath as they resumed walking.

“I could say the same of you,” he replied. “We make a good team.”

“Yes,” she said. “It appears we do.”

They walked on in companionable silence, Eliza quietly noting who watched them, who whispered, who turned to look again.

“To the left,” she murmured. “A group of young ladies observing very closely.”

Edwin did not look.

Instead, he stepped aside, plucked a small clover from the grass, and offered it to her.

She accepted it with a soft laugh and a graceful curtsey, playing her part to perfection.

Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the girls react—smiling, whispering, one of them visibly envious.

“They will speak of that later,” Eliza said softly as they moved on.

“Excellent,” Edwin replied.

They circled toward the Serpentine, where he guided her toward a bench.

Others lingered nearby, close enough to observe—but not to overhear.

Perfect positioning.

She sat. He joined her.

“Lean slightly toward me,” Edwin murmured. “And laugh softly, if you would.”

She did, tilting her head just so.

“It will appear as though we share secrets.”