Duke of Desire: A Scandalous Love Story in 18th Century England

he grand estate where he would be staying, and whispers of his wealth and charm spread like wildfire through the aristocratic circl

............

ing through the countryside, the solitude of the library, and the company of her two best friends at the occasional ball. The news of th

eers, cherished each other's company. Their bond was strong, and they found

istocracy, known for their influence and status in London society. Their daughters' friendship add

s. Despite their differences, the three friends complemented each other, creating a dynamic and intriguing trio. Amie and Katherine's impending marriages added a new dynamic to their friendship, as they embarked on a new cha

sence, earning her admiration and respect from those who could appreciate her intelligence. However, her intelligence also made her a target for gossip and criticism, as some vie

or to welcome the Duke to town the next evening. He instructed his wife the Counte

ke," Lady Caroline remarked, her frustration evident.

ial expectations, replied, "It is customary, my dear.

a valid excuse to be absent. "Very well," she c

of balls and gatherings, preferring the quiet solitude of her books. However, she knew that as the daughter

ncreasingly intrigued by the prospect of meeting him. She had never been one to swoon ov

ait for the day to be over and done with. Her heart fluttered in her chest as she caught her first glimpse of him. "Breath taking...." She whispered subconsciously. Quickly, she

gered on Lady Caroline for a moment drifting slowly to her lush red lips. He took Lady Caroline's hand in his and pressed a gentle kiss to her knuckles. She stylishly covered her face with her other hand, trying to sh

but she had to. There was something magnetic about him, something that drew her to him despite he

with hers and whispering the occasional sarcastic line she had grown tired of hearing ".....ice queen's melting...." She jokingly pinched Katherine's cheek as she unlinked their arms and took a cool drink from the foot man who stood near the door leading to the terrace. She watched from the sidelines as the duke took the first dance. he danced with all the beautiful women in the room, his smil

lly looking at the night sky. She heard footsteps behind her a

he asked, his voic

her guest and her father. her heart pounding in her chest. She k

. She was struggling to maintain her steal demeanor. She told him about her dreams and aspirations, her fears and doubts. And he list

n his and pressed a gentle kiss to her knuckles. "I hope we will m

She knew that meeting the Duke had changed everything. He had changed how