He released a long sigh before shifting away from her, planting his elbows on his thighs, clasping his hands, and staring into the street where the first wisps of fog were making their presence known. “I was once married. It was not a happy arrangement.”

Her heart lurched at the confession he’d made and the somberness of his tone. “Did you get divorced?”

“No, she passed away. But our marriage came about because she arranged for us to be caught in a compromising situation. I had no choice but to marry her. So when you told me you were willing to do all that is necessary to acquire your dream of landing a peer—”

“It’s not my dream.”

He jerked his head around to stare at her.

“It’s my mum’s.” She felt rather silly saying that. “I’d be content to spend my life as a spinster working in my shop.”

“Then why not simply do that?”

She looked up, wishing the stars were visible. “Because they have all worked so hard and sacrificed so much to see me well situated that I have to at least give it my best. I fully realize that a woman of my scandalous background will not be any lord’s ideal, but I doubt a one of them will find any lady more prepared to manage a household than I. I can exhibit grace and confidence and be an asset. If you will not think me too obnoxious, I must admit I will be quite the catch.”

He gave a short chuckle, a small grin. “It seems you can add a lack of modesty to your list of attributes.”

“Mick says we must project what we want the world to believe.” Growing somber, she dared to place her hand over his forearm. “I’m sorry about your wife, your marriage. Have you been a widower long?”

“During some moments it feels like forever; during others as though no time at all has passed. I mourn her death, did not wish it upon her.”

“But you have scars from her deception.”

He studied her a full minute before confessing, “I do find it a challenge to trust women’s motives.”

“Rest assured, I have no plans to trick any lord into marriage. My siblings have all married for love. I’d rather like to follow that custom. So I’m in no rush to tie the knot. I intend to take my time and find the right fellow.”

“And if that means no more penny gaffs?”

She smiled. “One was more than enough. Besides, I’ll have theater and operas.”

“No more meat pies eaten on steps.”

“I’ll have the memory.”

He trailed his fingers down her cheek, along her jaw. “Will you?”

“I shan’t forget tonight. I’m glad the seat in the hansom cab had room for you.”