Chapter 54

ELOISE

I had another sip of my coffee, and it warmed me up. “You probably know me better than anyone else. You probably know what my dad is doing that I just can’t figure out. How about we start with that?” I suggested, my gaze unwavering.

“Your father,” he began, “is a man with layers, just like you.”

“Like me?”

“You possess qualities I typically avoid, yet I’m undeniably drawn to you.”

I blushed. “This isn’t about me.”

He released a sigh. “Your father hides his intentions well, but I have some ideas—something I’ve observed when we talked to him. For example, it doesn’t matter who you marry, whether it’s the baron or someone else.”

I frowned. He was right. Dad would’ve insisted, but he didn’t. Rather, he let me go. “Why do you think so?”

“Your dad needs him because they’re partners in crime. That freaking baron handles the Cunningham businesses, so if you marry him, the viscount won’t have to try hiding his agenda. Especially to you.”

I shook my head. “I still don’t get what