"What, then, is a proper lady to you?" He tapped his hand on his thigh, consciously blinking both eyes.
"A proper lady is one who is true to herself," Lady Fitzgerald said. "one who is not always bound by the rules of society, but manages to obey them."
Brand stiffened, unpleasantly surprised. He did not know what to think or what to say. She was a rebel, just like Alexander.
"Forgive my words."
He found his words. "One should never apologize for being candid." Then, "Are you a proper lady?"
There was hesitation. "I believe I am."
A smirk began to form on Brand's lips. "Is Lady Farrington a proper lady?"
She hesitated again. "I believe she is."
Brand's face straightened. He had been sporting for an argument. "You believe so?"
Lady Fitzgerald nodded. "Propriety comes from the person who believes they are proper. That is how the standard began."