“A disguise,” she said stiffly. “I suppose I can borrow something from somebody at the Society for Poor and Unfortunate Children. Mrs. Wattings and I teach there.”

“As long as whatever you borrow hides the glory of Lady Della,” he said with a grin.

And then she looked embarrassed all over again, and he wanted to take her in his arms and show her with methodical skill and patience just how beautiful he found her.

“But since we can’t get your disguise until later, I’ll go to the docks now to find my first mate. The last I saw of him,” he began, thinking of Clark lying on that table, “well, I think he must be wondering where I am.” Not to mention the rest of his crew, though they were likely pleased to have a reprieve from his orders, although he knew they’d be displeased to hear he wouldn’t be their captain any longer when he did get to speak with them.

“As long as you don’t begin the investigation without me.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it. I promise.”

“And tonight we can announce ourselves to Society.”

A shadow passed over her face as she spoke, and he wondered if she was going to share some of her hesitancy with him. He knew he didn’t want to venture into Society, but he also didn’t have the addition of Society not wanting him to venture into it, unlike her. How must that feel? And that she was willing to do it for her friend spoke volumes about her loyalty and the depth of her love.

But no, the moment passed; she raised her chin and took a deep breath. “This will be our first public appearance together.”

“Yes, it will, my beloved.”

She blinked, then her features cleared. “Oh yes. You’re practicing. And I will have to practice saying Lord Stanbury.”

“Or some other cozy nickname you might come up with?” he teased. “My captain? Lord Handsome?”

“Or the Duke of Arrogance?” she retorted. Her expression was amused.

“That would suit me very well,” he said, putting his hands behind his back to thrust out his chest. He didn’t miss how she glanced at him then, nor did he miss the look of interest in her eyes. “Although that would make you the Duchess of Arrogance.”

“Not until I marry you,” she reminded him. “And that will not happen.”

It was unfortunate that this was only pretense—otherwise, he would be thinking about what she would be like in bed when they actually were married. How she’d tease and play with him there as skillfully as she was doing now on the street. Only she’d be naked and supine, and he would much prefer that scenario.