Chapter IV: A Proposition

My dear! Satine! Satine sighed deeply and rolled over in bed.

she asked sleepily, too tired to make her voice interested in what he had to say.

Do you remember that young writer? Satine hugged her pillow close and willed herself not to throw it at the Duke's head. No, she'd absolutely forgotten the young writer. After all, he knew about her tendency to forget everything that hadn't happened five minutes ago.

Yes, dear Duke.

I had a wonderful idea last night. Why don't you make him fall in love with you? Satine sat up, suddenly awake.



It's such a charming idea, isn't it? the Duke continued primly, clearly satisfied with himself. I'm sure you can do it, my sweet. Consider it a test of your acting. And what a good joke!

But-- my dear Duke-- Satine floundered. Surely he'll-- he'll notice the difference between how I am around you and him--

I already thought of that, beamed the Duke. I won't be here, so he won't have any real love to compare his to. Satine was unable to contain an incredulous eyebrow, but the Duke was luckily too involved with his tie to notice.

I-- I don't know what--

Nonsense, Satine, the Duke said firmly. It'll be wonderfully funny. As if someone like you could fall in love with him! Satine managed a weak laugh as the Duke rang the bell for the servant.

Of-- of course. I'll just go. . . get dressed, then. As her bedroom door closed behind her, Satine flung herself onto the bed with a strangled cry. After a moment, she sat up and brushed herself off. She took a deep breath to steady herself.

Won't be a problem, she said airily to the wall. Satine shook her head at herself. Somehow, she knew she was lying.

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Author's Note: I don't own Satine, the Duke, or Christian (pity bout that) I own everyone else, though.

Sorry this chapter is so short, but do you really want to see more of Satine and the Duke together? I didn't think so.