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Annabel straightened, her chin lifting slightly. “I want a proper marriage with an honorable man. If love is not possible, then at least warmth and mutual respect. I wish for a family—a faithful husband and children to cherish. Richard’s deceitful nature makes any of that impossible.” Her voice trembled with conviction. “I would rather have an honest marriage of convenience with shared goals than endure this farce.”
* * *
Philip leaned back slightly, regarding Miss Ridley with a mixture of admiration and intrigue. “I see your point. I value integrity myself.”
Miss Ridley’s expression softened in relief.
“You rode a long way to find me,” he continued. “I assume you have a solution in mind. What exactly are you asking me to do for you?”
“I was hoping you would speak to Richard. He has always spoken of you with reverence. Perhaps you could convince him to release me from the betrothal?”
Philip considered her words. A beautiful, intelligent woman, bold enough to seize control of her future, had come directly to him for aid. She was striking, self-possessed, and everything he had wished for during his musings that very morning. Unlike the timid young women he had encountered in the past, Miss Ridley had a passion and vitality that drew his attention.
The opportunity she presented was undeniable. Helping her avoid a marriage to Richard—an irredeemable rogue, in Philip’s estimation—could also solve his own problem. He needed a wife, and Annabel Ridley possessed the spirit, intelligence, and strength he valued. This was not mere fortune; this was the recognition of an opportunity and acting upon it.
Mind made up, he declared, “I agree to help.”
She blinked, clearly shocked, before her brandy-colored eyes lit with joy. “You will speak to Richard?”
Philip’s chest tightened at her effervescent smile, but he focused on the matter at hand. “Unfortunately, my cousin and I are no longer in contact. We have not spoken in three years, which is why you and I have not had the pleasure of meeting before today. However,” he added, leaning forward slightly, “I have a much better plan.”
Annabel’s brow furrowed. “A better plan?”
Philip nodded, choosing his words carefully.
“A plan my cousin cannot fight.” He hesitated briefly, gathering his resolve. Fortune favors the bold, Philip. “I will marry you instead.”
Annabel’s mouth fell open in astonishment. “What?”
“You need a husband who can rival Richard’s social standing,” Philip explained, his tone steady and matter-of-fact. “Your father would likely be overjoyed to secure a connection to a duke rather than an earl. As for myself, I need a wife. You strike me as intelligent and determined—qualities I admire. I believe we could have a successful partnership.”
Annabel’s cheeks flushed as her gaze faltered. “You would engage in a marriage of convenience? With me?”
“Yes. A marriage built on mutual respect and shared goals is superior to many marriages I know. It would certainly be preferable to my first marriage.”
Her brow creased with uncertainty. “But why me? Why would you do this for me?”
Philip held her gaze for a moment, willing himself to remain composed. He could confess that her boldness impressed him, or that he found her far more intriguing than any woman he had met in years. He could even admit to the relief of avoiding another Season filled with idle conversations and tedious introductions. But he settled on a simpler answer.
“It is the gentlemanly thing to do,” he said with a faint smile. “I would be honored to assist you in resolving this matter.”
Her shoulders relaxed slightly, though her expression remained wary. “You would marry me without love?”
Philip inclined his head. “Love is not something I seek. What I value is companionship, respect, and shared purpose. I believe we could offer that to each other. You are a bold, capable young woman, and I believe you would make an excellent wife.”
Annabel bit her lip, her uncertainty evident. Philip gave her a moment to process his offer. He needed to handle this carefully if he was to win her agreement.
“Consider the advantages,” he continued. “You would no longer be under your father’s control or subject to Richard’s whims. You would have independence within a household that values your voice and your choices. And you would gain the security of a partnership with someone who respects you.”
Annabel studied him intently, her brandy eyes searching his face for sincerity. At last, she nodded slightly, as if coming to terms with the possibility. “You have given me much to think about, Your Grace.”
Philip allowed himself a small smile. “That is all I ask, Miss Ridley. Think on it. We can discuss the matter further while I give you a tour of Avonmead.”
As she inclined her head in agreement, Philip felt a flicker of hope. This arrangement, unexpected as it was, held the promise of a future far more fulfilling than anything he had anticipated that morning.
* * *
After her initial surprise waned, Annabel allowed herself to consider the duke’s offer. The options remaining to her were scarce, so the decision did not take long—barely a few seconds.
