Never his duchess

Miss Lily Hype was twenty years old and the very definition of unruly.

With long black curls, striking green eyes, and a generous dowry, she was one of the most admired beauties of the Season. After her mother's death, the Viscount devoted himself entirely to her, spoiling her with jewels, gowns, and every luxury. He never remarried.

As a child, Lily had been kind and cheerful, always following her older brother Arthur and his friends, Edwin and Wesley. But years of indulgence turned her stubborn, spoiled, and careless of others' opinions.

Arthur, now seven-and-twenty, was kind but quick-tempered. When their father left for the country, he became Lily's guardian for her debut Season. Unlike their father, Arthur refused to indulge her. He watched every gentleman who approached, determined to keep fortune hunters, rakes, and men drowning in debt away from his sister.

Lily thought him unbearable.

Among those observing their constant battles was Edwin, the Duke of Hastings. Tall, broad-shouldered, dark-haired, and known for his commanding presence, Edwin was respected throughout England for his discipline and patience. Wesley, now a count, remained his cheerful and easygoing friend.

Edwin had known Lily since she was a little girl, but over the years she had grown into a remarkable beauty. One memory, however, lingered. The previous year, while visiting Arthur, he had accidentally witnessed the aftermath of Lily being birched for one of her reckless escapades. He had quickly looked away, yet the image of her proud, tearful face refusing to break had remained with him.

Since then, Edwin had found himself looking at Miss Lily Hype rather differently.