Page 88 of A Scandal for the Beastly Earl

Thistle dropped the leash and barked once, a sound that managed to convey both argument and determination.

"He makes a good point," Arabella said.

"He didn't make a point. He barked."

"It was a very articulate bark."

"Arabella."

"He'll be good."

"He's never been good a day in his life."

"He might surprise you."

"The only surprise would be if he didn't steal something."

"Then we'll be prepared."

"We can't take a dog on morning calls."

"Why not?"

"Because it's not done."

"Neither was marrying me after five days, but you managed that."

"That's different."

"How?"

"That was... that was..."

"Yes?"

"Fine. Bring the criminal. But when he destroys Lady Potts’ drawing room, I'm blaming you."

"Fair enough."

The carriage ride to Lord and Lady Potts’ estate was marked by Thistle's attempts to stick his head out the window and Lucien's attempts to maintain some semblance of dignity.

"He's getting drool on the doors," Lucien observed.

"It'll dry."

"That's not the point."

"What is the point?"

"The point is we're trying to make a good impression."

"I think we're past that. Our impression is already made."

"What impression is that?"

"Chaotic but entertaining."

"I'm not chaotic."