She chewed the inside of her lip. “Well, I’m hardly your type of woman. It is safe to say that”—she gestured to the bed—“is impossible. I thought more like question and answer sessions, or role-playing. Insight into the male mind and what they find attractive.”

A crease appeared between his brows, deepening as she spoke. “I don’t have a type of woman,” he said, “but if I did, how are you so certain you’re not it?”

Because you’re perfect and I’m . . . me.

Kit could have his pick of women at this house party. Probably already had, considering he’d believed her to be someone named Mary at the door a few moments ago. “If nothing else,” she said, “I am realistic about my appeal, which is why drastic measures must be taken.”

“I see.” He brought the glass to his mouth for another sip. “And what will you do if I decline to share my wealth of knowledge?”

She frowned, not caring for the direction of the conversation. If he planned to refuse, she wished he’d spit it out and save her the humiliation. “Find someone else, I suppose. Mr. Archer, maybe?”

Kit made a scoffing sound. “A true waste of your time. Harrison was a bit of a late bloomer and not exactly a pillar of success in the romance department.”

“Well, there must be another man willing to help me, if you won’t. A footman or groom, perhaps. They are generally young and energetic.”

“The prospect of you asking another man fills me with an overwhelming sense of dread. Why not ask one of the ladies? Maddie or that redhead, Miss Young? They both seem to attract male attention.”

Would she actually learn the ins and outs of the male mind by discussing this with a woman? Alice doubted it. Because, really, who knew how men thought better than another man? “No, I need more than a few tips. I need a degree in seduction. From a man.”

He drained his glass and set it down with a heavy sigh. “Sadly, that man cannot be me.”

Alice’s stomach sank, disappointment sweeping through her. I failed and now he’ll tell the entire house party of my request. Everyone will laugh at me.

Idiot.

How could she have been so stupid? Why had she considered for a single moment that this gorgeous, charming man would waste any time on her? A momentary lapse of sanity, obviously.

She pushed to her feet, her only thought of escape. “Of course. Forget I asked. I’ll leave you to your night.”

“Wait.” He blocked her path and put up his hands. “Let me explain.”

Run. Get away. Go hide.

“Not necessary.” She dodged around him and lunged for the doorknob. “I understand perfectly.” She tried to pull the door open but it wouldn’t budge.