Fenella J Miller - [Duke 02]

by Bride for a Duke

  She frowned at the back of his head. He was riding slightly ahead of her. The long stride of his stallion made it difficult for her mare keep up unless she jogged. She reviewed the events of the past few days. She suspected his interest in her had not commenced until after she appeared in a beautiful gown and restored to her normal appearance. What went on inside a person was more important in her opinion. However beautiful they were or what garments they were decked out in should make no difference to how they were perceived.

  Being cross with him was a more familiar sensation than those she had been experiencing since last night. Far safer to dislike him and push her growing feelings firmly to one side. She kicked Silver into a canter and arrived at his side in a rush. “My lord, I forgot to mention I shall not be dining with you in future.”

  His eyes flashed and his mouth curved down. “Is there something you dislike about the food or is it the company you wish to avoid?” His question was bland—his expression watchful. He reined in and swung in his saddle in order to face her.

  “The food is excellent the company also.” She saw puzzlement in his eyes and smiled at his confusion. “No, I spoke to your mother about the problem but she insisted things can’t be changed.”

  “Devil take it! You’re talking in riddles. What is it you wish me to alter so that you will join us for dinner?”

  “I refuse to sit on my own with several yards of empty table on either side of me unable to converse. I suggested we eat in a smaller room or perhaps laid all four places at one end of the table, but it seems Foster would be put out if we did so.”

  “Foster will have to get used to it. I can’t think why I’ve allowed things to continue in this ridiculous fashion. You’re quite right to point it out to me. I promise in future we shall dine somewhere more comfortable.” He smiled at her and her heart did strange things. “Do I have your promise you will join us tonight and every other night?”

  “You do. After all if I’m not around to talk to Rupert I shall have no opportunity to persuade him to purchase his colours.”

  “Exactly so; I had been about to say the very same thing myself.”

  They clattered into the stable yard and further conversation was impossible. She waited for him to lift her down from the saddle but he strode off in the direction of the house leaving this task to a groom. No doubt he was going to speak sternly to the butler; insist in future the family used a smaller chamber and ensure the footman was not dismissed.

  That night she took extra time to prepare herself. Further evening gowns, promenade dresses, spencers and pelisses had arrived that afternoon. It had been difficult to select a favourite as they were all delightful and she’d never possessed more than two evening gowns.

  “The gold silk with the spangled overdress is right for you, miss. Autumn shades suit you best if you don’t mind my saying so.”

  Anna examined her reflection in the long glass and was pleased with what she saw. “The matching ribbon threaded through my hair completes the ensemble perfectly. As the gown has short sleeves I shall take the wrap. It’s fortunate I can now wear the gloves and evening slippers. I felt decidedly uncomfortable without either last night.”

  “I can’t credit how quickly your hair has returned to its natural golden brown, miss, real pretty it looks in the candlelight.”

  “I must go. The duchess and I are going down together again. I shall need my habit tomorrow; will it be ready to wear?”

  “I’ll get on to it right away. I’ll leave it out for you, shall I? I reckon you’ll be up with the lark and gone before I can bring in your chocolate and rolls.”

  Sarah was waiting and looked quite lovely in a deep blue evening gown, the neck, cuffs and hem decorated with darker blue bugle beads. A magnificent sapphire necklace and matching ear-bobs completed her outfit.

  “My dear, I do believe tonight’s gown is even more becoming than the other one. I see you have your slippers and gloves on. I think that’s why you were so tense last night—nothing at all to do with the seating at the table.”

  Anna thought it better not to mention there was to be a new arrangement tonight, Sarah might misconstrue the fact Ralph had changed a centuries old tradition at her request.

  *

  Ralph watched Rupert meander around the grand salon unable to settle and was delighted to see his brother not cradling his customary glass of alcohol. “Mama and Anna won’t be long, they are both excellent timekeepers.”

  “I say, have matters improved between you then? I never expected to hear you use her given name so soon, normally you’re a stickler for etiquette.”

  “I’ve decided to give your marriage a chance. Although contracted in a most dubious way I think Anna will be a good influence on you. This is exactly what you need at the moment.”

  His brother’s face lit with a smile of such intense happiness Ralph knew he’d done the right thing. All he had to do was convince Anna to let the union stand, at least until his brother could be convinced to join the cavalry or had given up his dangerous friends and other bad habits. He prayed she would not wish to continue the arrangement after the agreed six months.

  “You’re a capital fellow, the best brother anyone could have. She don’t love me, you know, but I’ll do me best to convince her she’d be better off with me then on her own.”

  “Ah, here they come …” Ralph’s words trailed away as the woman he’d fallen irrevocably in love with descended the stairs in a delightful confection of gold silk and sparkly material. Rupert brushed past him and rushed over to greet her.

  “Anna, you look pretty tonight. Dashed fine colour that gown is. Do you notice I’m not drinking? I’ve given it up.”

  Mama drifted towards him. There was some consolation in having her restored to full health. He must concentrate on that and not dwell on what might have been. “Mama, you look enchanting as always. You will be surprised to see I have arranged for us to dine in the blue room. I want to be able to talk to you and Anna whilst we eat.” He kept his tone light hoping his unhappiness wouldn’t be apparent.

  She slipped her arm into his and drew him away. “I see how it is, dearest, I guessed you were smitten when you brought Anna here. Don’t look so sad, things have a way of working out for the best. She will soon be free of the entanglement with Rupert and then you can … “

  “But I can’t, Mama, I’ve decided to let things remain as they are. If Rupert won’t become an officer in the cavalry then the only way to save his life from ruination is to let Anna do it. He loves her and would do anything for her.”

  Their conversation was interrupted by Foster who appeared looking decidedly put out. “Dinner is served. “ He sighed heavily. “Tonight you are to dine in the blue room.”

  *

  Anna took Rupert’s proffered arm. She had enjoyed their conversation as he was a dear boy when not in his cups. The meal was superb but she scarcely noticed what she ate as she was too engrossed in the lively debate between herself and Ralph about the iniquitous Corn Laws which were causing so much distress to country folk. Rupert had but one glass of claret and remained attentive and loving although he rarely joined in the conversation.

  After dinner she was once more alone with him and he returned to the subject she had tried to avoid. “Anna, we don’t have to wait for the lawyers. Ralph has given us his blessing, why don’t we go to my estate as we’d planned? I’m sure we can make this marriage work..” He smiled and the intensity of his gaze made her feel uncomfortable. “I’m hoping I can persuade you to make the marriage genuine.”

  Flustered, she scrambled to her feet. “Oh, the tea tray is here. I expect your mother would like me to make it.”

  Sarah greeted her affectionately. “At last, I thought you too young things were going to spend the rest of the evening closeted together.”

  Anna glanced across at Ralph but he would not meet her gaze. “Shall I prepare the tea?”

  Rupert joined them and flopped down on the nearest chair relaxed and ha
ppy. His brother was quite the opposite. “Nothing for me, Anna. What about you, Ralph?”

  Abruptly he stood up. “I've just recalled I have an urgent letter to write, it must be taken to catch the mail coach first thing tomorrow.” He bowed politely bent down to kiss his mother’s cheek and strode off.

  The evening finished soon after his departure, Rupert escorted her and Sarah to their chambers. “I shall be joining you first thing tomorrow, Anna, when you take your morning ride.” He grinned ruefully. “A bit of a shock to the old system, I’ve not seen an early morning for many a month.”

  “I’m proud of you, Rupert. Promise me you’ll consider my suggestion. I think you would make an excellent cavalry officer. Think how smart you would look in red.”

  “I don’t want to leave you. I’d much prefer to be your husband. Goodnight.” He swayed towards her intending to kiss her cheek, she quickly stepped away and bid him goodnight from the safety of her parlour.

  She couldn’t help wishing Ralph would be riding with her tomorrow and not his younger brother. Although this marriage of convenience had seemed the perfect opportunity to escape from Sir John now she was safe at Shalford she had no wish to continue the charade. As she settled down to sleep something occurred to her. She sat bolt upright.

  Good heavens! Ralph had been so withdrawn tonight because he didn’t want her to go away with Rupert. There could only be one reason he had given his approval. He was putting his brother’s happiness ahead of his own. He did have feelings for her as she did for him. Her eyes brimmed—everything was such a muddle and she could see no way forward which could satisfy everyone.

  If she had her heart’s desire then Rupert’s heart would be broken. She was his wife. Whatever the reason she had spoken her words in the sight of God. Now the circumstances were changed she believed she ought to honour her vows however difficult this was going to be.

  The next morning she was heavy eyed and dressed reluctantly. She made her way directly to the stable yard. She had discovered the journey was quicker down the nursery stairs and into the main part of the building. This also meant she was unlikely to meet Ralph; he was so observant he was bound to detect her unhappiness.

  Silver Star was more settled this morning; the exercise yesterday had done her good. Rupert rode a splendid chestnut gelding, his seat was excellent. In fact she was forced to admit if she hadn’t met Ralph she would be very happy indeed to be married to his brother.

  After an hour and a half of cantering and jumping ditches and hedges Rupert decided they should return. “The lawyer’s coming this morning. Have you decided what you wish to do? I will go along with your choice whatever it is.”

  “Yes, I have. I shall let the marriage stand but only if we leave for your estate tomorrow morning.”

  Maybe she could bear the separation if she was away from Shalford. She must make sure he understood she had no intention of making it a genuine arrangement. “Rupert, I must be sure you realize I have not changed my mind about it being a marriage in name only. I shall insist on it being dissolved in a year as we agreed.”

  “I might not be too sharp in the brain-box but I’m a man of my word. I’ll just pray you will change your mind.” He smiled. He was the most attractive young man when he was sober. “However I’m hoping one day you will come to see me as a suitable partner and return my love in full.”

  *

  Ralph watched the woman he loved ride away with his brother. He would take his own morning exercise later after he’d spoken to Johnson who was due to arrive at any moment. The lawyer’s letter had said he was travelling by post; a hideous expense but a necessary one. Such extravagance was a waste of money now the marriage was to stand until the year was over. Having Anna under his roof and not being able to declare his love would become an impossible task the longer she stayed here.

  No more than twenty minutes after the two riders vanished into the woodland a post chaise turned onto the drive and bowled towards the house. He left his apartment and headed for the grand salon. Foster greeted him a touch frostily.

  “Shall I have refreshments sent in when Mr Johnson arrives, my lord?”

  “Do that. Coffee and plum cake will suffice.” Ralph paced the room dreading the interview which would mark the end of his hopes. He’d no idea being in love would be such a painful business for poets only wrote about the joy of the experience. No one had warned him how it would be agony to be denied the love of your life. Rupert must provide the heir, he would remain a bachelor. If he couldn’t have Anna, he would have no one.

  Johnson, a man of middle years, was sharp featured and equally sharp eyed. He was a clever man, not given to hyperbole, reliable and normally unflustered. Today he all but ran towards him. “My lord, you will not believe what I have discovered.”

  *

  Rupert lifted Anna from the saddle as easily as Ralph had done. “Shall we go and give him our good news? I think I saw the lawyer arrive. He’s made a wasted journey.”

  This time when he took her hand she did not remove it because as her legal husband he had the right to hold it whenever he wished. A sick dread filled her. What if Rupert started drinking again? Whatever their verbal agreement legally she was his chattel and must do as he bid or suffer the consequences. She stumbled and he wasn’t quick enough to prevent her fall. She crashed painfully to the cobbles. Her head struck the ground and her world went black.

  *

  Ralph shook his head in disbelief. “Let me get this straight. The priest who conducted the ceremony was bogus? An actor?”

  “Indeed he was, my lord. It would appear one of Lord Shalford’s more disreputable friends persuaded the man to play the part. No doubt it has caused considerable amusement amongst his cronies.”

  “I know my brother is not a keen wit but to allow himself to be gulled in this way is quite extraordinary.” The rattle of crockery arriving gave him pause. It would not do to discuss the matter in front of any member of staff. Fortunately Anna was still referred to as Miss Hadley; with luck her reputation would remain untarnished by this shocking revelation.

  When they were alone again he shook the lawyer vigorously by the hand. “I can’t tell you how relieved I am to get this news. It makes matters so much simpler.”

  The sound of running footsteps alerted him. A young footman burst in, his wig askew. “Your grace, you must come at once. Miss Hadley has had an accident.”

  Ralph was out of the room in seconds. “Where is she? Has Foster sent for the physician?”

  “Lord Shalford is bringing her inside, she struck her head on the cobbles when she fell and is unconscious. A groom has galloped off to fetch the doctor, your grace.”

  He met his brother as he entered the main passageway that led to the central vestibule. Anna was as pale as a ghost, the left side of her face covered in blood. Rupert looked little better.

  “Here, let me take her. Go and warn Mama.” Her head flopped horribly against his shoulder as if she was already a corpse. Rupert rushed ahead and the sound of anxious voices greeted Ralph as he carried his precious burden upstairs.

  “Take her straight into her bedchamber, Ralph; I shall take care of her now.” His mother stepped up and pressed two fingers against Anna’s neck, just below her ear, before leading him into the room where the bed had already been turned back. “Place her carefully. Don’t look so worried both of you, her pulse is strong. Head wounds bleed copiously, I’m sure it’s not nearly as bad as it looks.”

  Rupert dithered outside the door. “Come along, there’s nothing we can do here. Mama has patched us both up on numerous occasions and knows exactly what to do. There’s coffee downstairs and I think we could both do with a brandy to steady our nerves.”

  Johnson was waiting anxiously for news. “How is the young lady, my lord?”

  “Not as bad as we feared. Now, Rupert, how did this accident occur?”

  His brother explained. “I couldn’t catch her; my drinking has made my reactions slow. It’s my fault.”<
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  It took two cups of heavily sweetened coffee and a large brandy before his brother was sufficiently calm to be able to hear what to him would be devastating news. When Ralph explained Rupert’s reaction was even more extreme than he’d expected. He buried his head in his hands and his shoulders shook. Johnson politely gathered up his papers and made himself scarce.

  Ralph put his arm around his sibling to offer comfort. “Dear boy, do not distress yourself. All is not lost, I shall not stand in your way if you wish to court Miss Hadley.”

  Rupert raised a tear streaked face looking more like a little boy than a man grown. “You don’t understand. Anna had agreed to come with me, to try and make the marriage work. My stupidity would have ruined her life.” He scrubbed his eyes dry on his sleeve and stood up. “I cannot bear to face her. I shall do what I should have done years ago, become a soldier and learn to be more like you.”

  “Don’t do anything precipitate, Rupert. You have not known Anna for long, hardly time for her to make up her mind. I see no reason why you shouldn’t court her as you intended. I can assure you that you shall have my blessing if you can persuade her to marry you in earnest.”

  “She won’t wish to speak to me once she knows. But I will remain here until she’s well. I couldn't bear to leave without being sure she was going to make a full recovery.”

  Ralph gripped his brother’s shoulders. “Good man. None of us want you to dash off without giving the matter serious thought. If after you’ve spoken to Anna she makes it plain she's not interested then that is the time to consider your options.”

  “You are too good to me. I don’t deserve your sympathy or support after the way I’ve been behaving these past two years. The trick my so-called friends played on us was unforgivable. I shall have no dealings with them in future.”

  Ralph watched his brother stumble to his apartment. Standing back and allowing Rupert to court Anna was going to be torture. He must give his brother this opportunity whatever his own feelings on the matter. He frowned into his empty coffee cup. He thanked the good Lord he had not made his feelings clear to her otherwise she would be in an impossible position.