His Perfect Lady
Page 26
Seeing Richard and Greyson approaching them, Kenneth silently rejoiced at the upcoming change in conversation. On the other hand, being with the three couples made him feel uncomfortable. When the first notes of a waltz sounded, he teetered between relief and disappointment.
As if guided by an unspoken cue, his friends collected their wives and excused themselves. Kenneth stood back and watched as all three men held their wives slightly closer than appropriate. The women didn’t seem to mind in the least.
He wasn’t against marriage, just the idea of entering the state for money. If having a title meant he had to choose a wife, he preferred to find someone he could at least stand to be around. Rubbing a hand behind his neck, Kenneth went in search of the card room.
His fingers itched as he walked between the tables and heard the exhilarating sounds of cards slapping against one another. The familiar feeling of excitement and hope made his pulse race. Just one hand, he told himself. One hand would fix everything. One hand would make an heiress unnecessary. With a smile tickling his lips, he reached for his money.
As soon as his fingertips brushed the few coins, his shoulders sagged. This was the reason why he found himself in this position. Gambling had never been one of his talents. Keeping his gaze fixed upon his feet, he forced himself from the room.
Knowing his willpower wavered on the verge of snapping, he didn’t stop when the cool mist of rain dusted his face. The walk back to Jonathan’s townhouse would do him good. London held too many temptations to be beneficial for him.
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