If he needed an answer about how much he’d changed, that provided it. He didn’t want Fatima Hynes or any other nameless female with vacant eyes and an ample bosom. He didn’t want anyone else, ever. He wanted Evelyn Marie Ruddick – and he’d be damned if he was going to let Neckcloth Alvington have her without a fight. And if there was one thing he knew how to do better than anyone else in London, it was how to fight dirty.

Don’t assume, when a lady wants to take up a task or a cause, that is just a hobby.

I am a duke, you know. If I can’t perform a miracle here and there I might as well be a butler in expesive clothes.” He brushed at the sleeve of his well-tailored brown coat. “And butlers don’t get to dance with attractive women.

I had no idea,” she panted, “that being ruined could be so invigorating.

His oldest brother continued gazing at him. “Ye certain about this? I reckon ye could find a lass who’s a lot less trouble.” “Aye. Mayhap I could. But she’s my adae, and I’ll nae be without her.

What are you doing, terrorizing the virgins?

That was the thing about courage, she was discovering. It opened so much more of the world to her than she’d expected. A.

When the devil faults your reasoning, you should pay attention.

Never interrupt a lady when she is speaking to you, as if what you have to say is more important.

If you ask for an opinion, expect to receive one, and don’t make fun of it.