Once they faced each other again, Adelia slid her hands into his. His voice vibrated with more emotion than he had shown all night. “And how many offers for your hand do you expect, come the morrow?”
Adelia stopped. The other couples continued the dance around them as she regarded him thoughtfully. Swallowing hard, she squeezed at his hands, which still clasped hers so gently.
“I expect nothing,” she said quietly.
His head inclined in understanding.
“However, what I expect and what I would desire, Harry, are two immensely different things.”
He was quiet as he stepped back into the dance once more, finishing the last few steps. Adelia stopped and applauded the quartet, watching the remaining couples file from the room to say their goodbyes. She knew she should go and join her family but she was still shy, still unsure, even as she saw her mother looking around for her.
Suddenly, Harry again stepped closer to her. The world seemed to disappear around them. He swallowed hard and reached to brazenly brush the back of his index finger against her cheek. He wetted his lips as his hand fell, and he leaned forward slightly toward her. “Then tell me, Adelia, exactly what you desire.” The proximity of their bodies was close to impropriety.
She crossed her hands against the front of her gown, her heart pounding in her chest. His eyes darkened as his gaze swept her lips. Her lashes fluttered with excitement and she shivered, feeling a hunger for more of his touch.
“Use your discernment, Harry,” she whispered softly, “and perchance you might have a discussion with my father.”
Taking her hand in his, he lifted it carefully. The string quartet packed their instruments while servants cleared the ballroom. He reached out, daring to remove her glove, one finger at a time. Adelia’s chest swelled with anticipation. Bending his head, he whispered his reply, his gaze locked on hers as he placed a kiss upon the back of her hand, “As you wish.”
Chapter 21
Change of Heart
Dorothea watched as Adelia and the Duke grew closer, having eyes for none but each other. She watched her sister closely, the Duke’s words echoing in her mind.
The Duke wanted someone with ‘heart’ and a ‘good spirit’. Adelia was her sister. Surely if she had these qualities, then Dorothea must have them, too. She resolved to watch closely, and see how Adelia behaved, and find a way to be more like her.
With that in mind, she aimed a smile Adelia’s way as she walked into breakfast the next morning.
“Good morning,” she said, modulating her voice to be as low and melodious as Adelia’s.
Her sister looked up in surprise, eyebrow quirking. “G-Good morning,” she said and then continued to watch Dorothea as if she were a rattlesnake waiting to pounce. Dorothea frowned.
Surely I am not that bad—
She protested to herself as she reached for a honey cake. Then she hesitated, flicking her eyes toward Adelia’s empty plate.
“Would you like a cake?” she asked.
That had Adelia widening her eyes at Dorothea, as if she had offered her sister poison.
“Ah…thank you but…I am full.”
“All right.” Dorothea put a cake on her plate and looked toward the attentive footman who stepped forward at once to fill her cup with chocolate.
“It was a lovely time at the ball, was it not?” Dorothea ventured.
“Y-yes. I had a lovely time.” Adelia put down the paper she had been reading and folded her arms—on the table!—looking at Dorothea as if waiting for the point of the conversation. Dorothea toyed with telling her that a lady did not put her elbows on the table but then shrugged inwardly. No doubt Adelia’s etiquette coach would get around to it.
She picked up her honey cake and took a bite. Adelia went back to her newspaper and they passed the rest of breakfast in silence.
Being forced to live with a sister had its benefits. Sure, they shared the attention but that was not such a bad thing. The weight of expectation was halved. The blame for when something went wrong could be borne by both instead of singly. Dorothea was determined to see the advantages.
But the most unexpected thing of all was the companionship. Even as Dorothea extended the hand of friendship toward her, Adelia strove to meet her more than halfway. It was all Dorothea could do to keep up with her affection and friendliness. Adelia regaled her with stories of the boy she thought of as her cousin, as well as her former parents. Dorothea refrained from pointing out that those people were no longer Adelia’s relatives.
It was still a little difficult for Dorothea to work out how it all worked. She was not used to the politics of siblings or being compared to another person…and perhaps found wanting. She strove to work harder every day to out-do Adelia in her own friendliness.
Adelia was very free with her touch. She would touch Dorothea’s cheek, straighten her hair, pat her shoulder, clasp her hand, even on occasion, gather her in Adelia’s arms for a hug. It was disconcerting—even her mother, who was quite affectionate, did not touch her as much. Adelia did all this freely and without hesitation, and Dorothea didn’t mind. It was great and Dorothea liked it. She made sure to tell Adelia so and touch her back in the same way.
Touching and affection were still new for her though and she watched her sister closely for cues. Among themselves, the Cornhills were more inclined to nod genteelly and smile, perhaps offer a hand to be kissed. Adelia was more exuberant the more she got to know them.
Dorothea watched as Adelia would reach out with a hug and a kiss on the cheek when their mother would break down into tears as they had their afternoon tea. The first time she’d tried that, her mother had stared in surprise and Adelia had jumped a few feet in the air. Luckily, her panicked apology, blubbering and gesturing had calmed them. She had assured them that she’d meant no harm. Her mother had been quite moved in the end and had reached out of her own volition and embraced Dorothea. “I knew that a sister would be good for you,” she whispered softly, tearfully. Dorothea felt a pang and held her closer.
So she tried again, a light tap with her fan if Adelia said something funny, on a part of her body that seemed fairly well-cushioned. A half embrace when Dorothea was leaving the house for a social call, as Adelia did not yet feel up to that. She was uncomfortable in the presence of the haut ton and Dorothea made sure to stick by her side when she was forced to socialize.
It took a few more tries—and several awkward encounters—before the physical aspect came more naturally to Dorothea.
Sisters were much more different than she’d thought. And far more complicated.
Dorothea tried to learn by copying. That’s what she was most suited for, and that’s how Adelia taught her to be a better person. Dorothea would watch her every move—how she walked, how she spoke, the way her face lit up when she smiled... it was very strange, like some alternate version of herself. A softer, kinder version.
Dorothea resolved to be her.
When she was able to repeat Adelia’s expressions and quirks exactly, her mouth pulled into a happy shape and she would pull her hands together to make an appreciative noise. That was easy. She did it right and she liked it.
Sometimes she would go too far and then Adelia would frown and look at her as if she was suspicious of Dorothea. That would make Dorothea pull back, and reevaluate, to think about what she did and whether it was too much.
Then the Duke came for tea, having indicated his intention to make an offer for Adelia. That had given Dorothea heartburn and she had to retire to her room.
What would Adelia do if the tables were turned?
And the answer came to her.
She would be glad for my happiness.
Dorothea grimaced. Sometimes being a better person was really hard. Nevertheless, she sat down to tea with a smile on her face. She could feel both her mother and Adelia darting anxious glances her way as if they were not sure if she would throw a tantrum. The Duke was also watching her strangely, as if he did not recognize her at all. She set o
ut to put them at ease.
“Your Grace, would you like some more tea?” she picked up the teapot and held it out expectantly. He held his cup out with only a lift of the eyebrow to indicate his surprise.
“Thank you, My Lady,” he said quietly.
“You’re welcome.” She sipped her own tea demurely and smiled at the room. Adelia was openly staring and her mother’s lips looked pinched. She waited until after the Duke left before turning to them and taking a deep breath.
“Mother? Sister? I know that you think I shall make some sort of kerfuffle over the Duke, but I will not. I realize now that I only wanted him for the name and the status. I can see how taken you are with him, dear sister, and I do not begrudge you his attentions. I, too, hope to one day find that kind of devotion in a potential husband,” she said her lashes sweeping down to cover her eyes.
She was not at all surprised when Adelia swooped over her and enveloped her in tight embrace.
* * *
Harry’s thoughts were in disarray when he was jostled as someone stepped too close to him. To get from his own manor to Cornhill required that he cross the town square which meant running into people sometimes. He vaguely glanced in their direction, mumbling an apology before rapidly walking away. Footsteps approached from behind him, and he resigned himself to the possibility of confrontation. Ever since his mother’s death, he had been…distracted. The only thing that gave him true joy was spending time with Adelia. Feeling a hand on his shoulder, he turned around.
“I’m sorry, Your Grace...I didn’t mean to disturb you but you look…upset. Are you all right?” a familiar voice asked. Harry looked up and met startlingly warm, golden eyes.
Speak of the devil and she appears.
He smiled.
Then she narrowed her eyes in confusion and he realized that it was not Adelia, but Lady Dorothea he was speaking to.
Harry looked back at her, confused.
Why would Lady Dorothea want to speak to me?
Harry had accepted her change of heart because it made things easier for him and Adelia. He was not convinced of her sincerity but he was willing to give her the benefit of the doubt.
“Er…I’m fine, I suppose,” Harry was inexplicably nervous as if there was impending danger, unable to pull his eyes away from the compelling gold ones.
“That's…I suppose that's good, then. Good for you,” Lady Dorothea replied, awkwardly. She looked away from Harry's surprised eyes and yet seemed intent on continuing their interaction.
“Er…I suppose,” said Harry, his feelings of confusion unabated.
Why did Lady Dorothea go out of her way to speak with me? What does she want of me?
His mind circled around those questions in a never-ending loop.
Lady Dorothea dropped her hand from Harry's shoulder, glancing around nervously. Harry had forgotten her hand was there in the first place.
“Do you want to ask me something?” Harry leaned in to peer at her curiously. He was increasingly uncomfortable and ready to bring this encounter to an end. He was also due to meet Adelia in ten minutes so that they might indulge in a quiet afternoon of whist in company with Lady Cornhill. He was looking forward to it. He had just come from placing flowers on his mother’s grave and he was in dire need of some cheering up.
“Er, well, I wanted to inquire if you’d care to walk to Cornhill estate with me?” Lady Dorothea asked uneasily. Her face was a little flushed.
Harry was baffled. According to her own words, she was no longer interested in him.
Was Lady Dorothea even on her way home or was she turning around in order to walk with him? And should he agree to it or insist that they go their separate ways?
Harry mostly kept to himself these days, apart from visiting with Lady Cornhill and Adelia whenever he could. So he was extremely surprised at Lady Dorothea's request.
What's she playing at? What does she want? Why is she asking me to walk with her?
Harry's brain hammered relentlessly at questions with no immediate answers.
“Yes, I suppose,” Harry responded, looking up to meet Lady Dorothea's gold eyes. Something flashed across them but it was gone too quickly for him to be sure of what it was.
Shaking his head, Harry turned around and indicated that they should be on their way. Lady Dorothea took a couple of steps and caught up with him. They walked in silence all the way to Cornhill Estate, with neither attempting to make much conversation.
In fact, it was rather…peaceful and was that most unexpected.
He felt something almost unfamiliar, that he realized he had never felt in Lady Dorothea’s presence—comfortable. His mother’s death had sapped Harry of almost all his emotions, and he was glad to see his curiosity awakened. This was a step toward getting back to normal. He was tired of lethargy.
When they reached the house, they found the Earl in the courtyard, discussing something with the groom in front of his carriage. The Lord Cornhill looked up at them, releasing his grip on his riding crop. He seemed surprised to see them together and Harry could not blame him.
“Hello there, Your Grace. Oh! And Lady Dorothea. How fortunate to have met you before I left. Your mother is otherwise occupied and she would like you to take her place at whist. You and the Duke can partner up while Lady Adelia plays with Sarah.”
Bewildered, Harry only registered one thing.
I’m partnering up with Lady Dorothea? What are these people up to?
They entered the house and found Adelia waiting in the parlor, chairs all laid out, and refreshments at the ready. She looked up with a smile that did not falter even a little at the sight of the Duke with Lady Dorothea. While they were twins, there was just something about Adelia that pulled at his heart strings.
She is compelling.
They all took their seats and the game began. Harry made a few furtive glances over at Lady Dorothea, still trying to comprehend the situation he was in. Adelia was shooting him curious looks, and Sarah looked disconcerted. It was not much different from how Harry himself felt at the moment. Curious, confused, and most of all, bewildered.
Lady Dorothea quietly held up her share of the game, focusing wholly on trying to win. Every time she thought Harry should do his part, she would shift her gaze toward him minutely before folding her arms in her lap.
She then looked determinedly away, a faint pink flush spread across her cheeks. Thus they continued quietly, efficiently, and quite civilly until the game was done. Harry and Lady Dorothea had quite the advantage, having been around the game their whole lives, and so it was no surprise that they won.
Adelia was gracious in her defeat and congratulated them both warmly. Harry felt his heart swell with love for her.
Feeling remotely pleased, Harry took his leave and quickly left the Cornhill estate, wanting some time to himself to think things over.
Unfortunately, Harry didn't receive that peace and quiet he was looking for. As he walked along the quiet country lane, his mind was occupied with the curious turn his life had taken in recent days. He was surprised to hear increasingly loud footsteps behind him. Harry turned and saw Lady Dorothea and her ever-faithful maid, gaining on him.
Harry tried to ignore them and kept walking, but Lady Dorothea did not back down. Slowing to Harry's walking pace, she caught her breath for a few moments before she spoke.
“You must be wondering why I am here?” Lady Dorothea asked innocently, but Harry was far from fooled.
What could Lady Dorothea possibly want with me? Why does she keep seeking me out?
His thought trailed off as he realized that Lady Dorothea was awaiting an answer from him.
“It is not proper for you and me to be together like this,” Harry looked toward the lady’s maid, “Even with her presence. I am promised to your sister,” he replied politely, hoping Lady Dorothea wouldn't keep attempting to accost him.
“Oh, I was just on my way to visit my dear friend, Lady Francesca. I thought I would walk with you since it’s
on your way. Do you mind if I join you?” Lady Dorothea tilted her head, her eyes, so like Adelia’s, watching him hopefully.
Harry was now confused, cross, and baffled. He couldn't think of a suitable response so he nodded his head and walked faster, hoping that whatever deity was on his side would save him from an extremely awkward exchange.
Arriving at the entrance to Rosemond manor, Harry nodded to Lady Dorothea and watched her go on her way. Opening the gate, he strolled into his courtyard with a sigh. In the back of his mind, there was a little niggle of worry that bothered him and demanded his attention.
The niggle was named Lady Dorothea. He thought back on his day, remembered that Lady Dorothea kept sneaking glances at him with a strange expression on her face.
A Vixen For The Devilish Duke (Steamy Historical Regency Romance) Page 18