Diary of a Duchess

"Are you trying to mock me?" I scowled at him. "You haven't humiliated me enough?"

"If the choice was mine, it would be the same." He looked into my eyes. "And say yes, because you love me, not because you have to. Let it be our decision." He didn't wait for a response. Pressing his lips against mine, he kissed me ardently. His kiss was sensual, and when he released me, I looked at him, finally understanding what he meant to say. Had I not argued with my mother and father for the same reason? Did I not tell them I wouldn't marry him out of obligation?

"Lily," he called softly to me.

The sound of his voice seized my soul, and I suddenly wanted him to love me.