246. The Odious Duke

I know – you will – kill all the dragons.”

my darling Verena.”

“It is not my fault,” Verena said indignantly. “How can you be so unfair – so – ?”

you attract criminals

ordered, perfectly organised life, I am appalled at what the future might hold

Dull!” he queried and his eyes were dancing with laughter. “When I think what you have done already to my quiet, well-

but very adorable little Elf.”

pretend to be – a good Duchess!”

“We will pretend together,” the Duke answered. “I am not interested in Duchesses, just in one incorrigible and unpredictable

Perhaps if you really helped me – I could –

And then, my sweet dream, I intend to take you to Venice, a town devoted to love and lovers

like to ride with you over the field of Waterloo. You could then see where your grandfather, your father and I fought