Georgiana was completely convinced that she could run her estate successfully, that she could manage the household perfectly well and make sure that the workers and tenants were properly fed and cared for. Her ideas would, most likely, never find favour with her neighbours in the surrounding estates, but she had learnt so much from Miss Millpost, from her private tutor, and from the estate manager, that she now felt a deep responsibility towards the people who lived and worked on her lands.
She only wanted a chance to prove her worth and the only obstacle to that ambition was her sister’s future husband, the Duke himself.
Whilst she had to admit that she liked the man, and that he had her best interests at heart, she was also certain that he would do his utmost to abide by her Papa’s last wishes. She also had to admit that she had never really demonstrated her ability in his presence – for, until her Papa’s death, she had not truly known her own heart, and had simply learned for the joy of it, with no particular purpose in mind. It was quite reasonable that he currently perceived her as a somewhat scatter-brained, if intelligent, girl.
The idea of returning to her wonderful house at Casterfield Grange as the wife of some half-wit, pretentious young nobleman from the local gentry sent shivers of dread down her spine.
At last, they approached the line of handsome poplars which marked the boundary of the Duke’s estate, and Cordelia leaned out of the carriage window to catch sight of the lanterns shining atop the magnificent wrought iron gates that were being swung open to admit them. She admired the elegant gatehouse and noted the liveried servants bowing to her as the carriage passed along the gravel driveway that led to the stately house, slowing to a more comfortable pace as the coachman eased the horses to a walk.
This was her moment. She was coming to her new home. She was to be the new Duchess of Rotherhithe, with all of the lands, titles and privileges came with marriage to Philip Canterwood, Duke of Rotherhithe.
Her share of her father’s inheritance would add to the Canterwood fortune (although part would always be hers alone, as per the conditions of her father’s will) and the two families would be united forever.
The only minor obstacle now, to her complete happiness, was to find a suitable match for Georgiana, her beautiful, headstrong little sister.
The wedding, due to be held just a few short weeks from now, had provided a perfect opportunity to invite every eligible bachelor of noble blood, in the Duke’s very wide circle of acquaintance, to a house party, leading up to the celebration. Surely there would be enough handsome young men for one of them to catch Georgiana’s fancy, and, she was certain, the Duke would lend a hand in making sure that the right man was chosen. It was the least he could do to please his pretty young bride.
Her own was a match made in heaven and Cordelia was determined that her sister should have the same happiness, and be at the altar within six months of her own wedding - whatever it might take to achieve that.
Georgiana was not the only member of the Branley family with a stubborn streak!
Get
“Redeeming the Marquess”
as soon as it’s released – go to http://www.ariettarichmond.com
and make sure that you are signed up for news and release notices!
Claiming the Heart of a Duke
Intriguing the Viscount
Giving a Heart of Lace
Being Lady Harriet’s Hero
Enchanting the Duke
Redeeming the Marquess (coming soon)
Winning the Merchant Earl (coming soon)
Healing Lord Barton (coming soon)
Loving the Bitter Baron (coming soon)
Rescuing the Countess (coming soon)
Attracting the Spymaster (coming soon)
The Earl’s Unexpected Bride
The Captain’s Compromised Heiress
The Viscount’s Unsuitable Affair
The Count’s Impetuous Seduction
The Rake’s Unlikely Redemption
The Marquess’ Scandalous Mistress
The Derbyshire Set Omnibus Edition 1 (the first three books all in one)
The Marchioness’ Second Chance (Coming Soon!)
Lady Theodora’s Christmas Wish
Available at all good book stores and for ebook readers too!
(paperback only)
Other Books from Dreamstone Publishing
Dreamstone publishes books in a wide variety of categories – here are some of our other bestselling books:-
We have books in many categories, ranging from Erotica and Romance to Kids Books, Books on Writing, Business Books, Photography, Cook Books, Diaries, Coloring books and much more. New books are released each month.
Be the first to know when our next books are coming out
Be first to get all the news – sign up for our newsletter at
http://www.dreamstonepublishing.com
Enchanting the Duke: Sweet and Clean Regency Romance (His Majesty's Hounds Book 5) Page 11