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The only colour in Grace’s face was the dark, srey of her eyes ‘And if that were to happen…?’

Lucian grimaced ‘He doubts that your uncle would survive a second seizure’

Grace turned away to blink back her tears, her hands tightly linked together as she faced the prospect of another death in her fas were instantly set to one side as she thought of her aunt’s pain and distress if that were to happen Her aunt and uncle were so devoted to each other, and had already suffered the loss of their only son It was uniinable that her aunt should lose her beloved husband too

‘I have, of course, offered any assistance I can give during this ti as he allowed Grace to assiiven her He was already acquainted with her well enough—after tonight, some would say too well—to know that she had the fortitude of character to see her through the strain of the days ahead

Even if the Duke did survive, the Duchess would need a stalwart companion Not Darius or Francis, but a feive her the strength she would need Lucian had no doubt that Grace was in possession of that strength

Despite the pallor of her face, Grace’s chin was bravely high when she turned back to hiravely ‘I am sure that my aunt, Lord Darius and Lord Francis will be enerosity’

The Duchess and Darius, perhaps, but Lucian seriously doubted that Francis Wynter would see Lucian’s presence as anything more than interference in what he considered a private family matter Fortunately Lucian had absolutely no interest in Francis Wynter’s feelings on any subject!

‘Fond as I aaret and Darius, my offer was made for your benefit, Grace Not theirs,’ Lucian said quietly

Grace’s brow puckered into a frown ‘I am upset, naturally, but that does not mean that I expect you to inconvenience yourself on my behalf’

‘We are betrothed, Grace’ Lucian’s htened at his reminder of their betrothal ‘Do you not see that in these circumstances it is even more essential that you do not proceed with your plans to end our betrothal?’ His impatience with her stubbornness made his tone curt

Unfortunately Grace did see Just as she accepted, on brief reflection, that it was not the time to add to her aunt’s worry and distress But that did notthis forced betrothal