The Rigid Duke, page 2
She glared at him, but only for a moment. “So dour,” she murmured. “Can you at least try to be charming? Perhaps smile a little?”
Smiling was for insincere people. When Dare smiled, he meant it. “Why pretend to be someone I’m not? My future wife should know precisely whom she’s marrying.”
His mother exhaled. “That’s what I’m afraid of.” She paused, rallying her troops once more before she entered the breach. “If you can’t be charming, you’ll need to be…something. You can’t expect to win Lady Marina’s hand if you don’t engage her somehow.”
“I suppose I’ll have to dance with her.” He detested dancing.
“You could promenade. I’m sure there will be plenty of activities. Perhaps you can go for a ride together.”
“That would be acceptable.” He would appreciate a wife who enjoyed riding. He imagined her touring the estate with him, speaking to the tenants, and offering assistance and support.
“I’m relieved to hear it.”
He shrugged. “Although, being a duke is likely enough to win the chit’s—or anyone else’s—hand.”
His mother stared at him, then took a long drink of madeira, nearly draining the glass. “If that’s what you think, you deserve a wife who only wants you for your title.”
It seemed the battle this evening would go to his mother.
“I am more than my title,” he said quietly, and not without a hint of irritation.
“Of course you are, and I hope you realize it. I also hope you find the woman who breaks through that rigid outer shell you wield so relentlessly. She won’t see your title at all, and she’ll warm to you, in spite of your efforts to keep her away.”
Dare blinked. “I won’t do that.”
“That’s all you do, my darling,” she said with a loving glow that slightly melted his hardened exterior. He did keep up a wall, and he liked it. Inside his fortress, things were orderly and expected. He hated mess and emotion and anything surprising. The woman for him would understand that and leave him be.
Perhaps his mother was right—he would hold his duchess apart. Was that so bad? “You are far too sentimental, Mother.”
The butler entered and announced that dinner was served. Dare finished his brandy, and his mother did the same with her madeira. After depositing their empty glasses on a table for the butler to sweep away, Dare helped the dowager to her feet and offered his arm.
She placed her hand on his sleeve, and they walked into the dining room as they did every night. Peace settled over him. Same.
“I love you, my boy,” she whispered just before taking her chair.
That was different. Dare was surprised that he didn’t mind.
Chapter 2
Juno blinked against the bright October sunlight as she departed the coach and lifted her face to the sky. When she turned her head, the façade of Blickton, a pale stone Palladian house constructed in the last century, greeted her with sparkling windows and a wide open door.
A pair of liveried footmen bustled forth, one to direct their luggage and another to escort them to the house where a third footman stood just inside the door and welcomed them to Blickton. While Juno and Lady Wetherby took in the grand entrance hall, Marina looked at the floor. Perhaps she found the marble particularly compelling.
The butler led them to where everyone was gathered in the drawing room. On the way, they passed a large, inviting library, its shelves overflowing with books. Marina stopped and lingered in the doorway, her gaze hungry as she looked eagerly inside.
“You are not spending time in the library,” Lady Wetherby said firmly. “I forbid it. If I so much as see you with a book, I’ll gather up all the ones you’ve hoarded at home and send them to a school.”
Marina sent her a mutinous scowl, and Juno could practically hear her mind screaming in objection. Not that Marina would ever voice it aloud.
As they continued to the drawing room, Juno fell back with Marina, walking closely beside her. “We’ll find a way to explore the library. Leave it to me,” she promised, sending her charge an encouraging smile.
“Thank you,” Marina murmured, her gaze meeting Juno’s for a brief but gratitude-filled moment.
“Our final guests have arrived!” Lady Cosford exclaimed as they entered the drawing room. “Welcome, Lady Wetherby, Lady Marina, and Mrs. Langton.”
Their hostess lowered her voice to address them personally. “I’m so pleased you could come.” She turned and beckoned to a dark-haired gentleman with warm hazel eyes. “Cosford, darling, come greet Lady Wetherby and her daughter. And Lady Marina’s companion.” Lady Cosford directed a smile toward Juno, and she was instantly struck by the unmistakable sensation that she’d met a kindred spirit. Someone with a positive outlook and a strong, determined nature. Juno hoped she was right.
After exchanging pleasantries, their host moved on while Lady Cosford remained. She chatted with Lady Wetherby about their trip, and Juno took the opportunity to scout the landscape.
Scanning the room, Juno immediately located the Duke of Warrington. At least, she was fairly certain that was him. When she’d learned of his attendance and, more importantly, of her employer’s desire that her daughter become his duchess, Juno had done what she could to recall his likeness and learn all she could about him.
He was not an exceptionally tall man, but he was muscular and fit, with a very attractive face. Rather, it would be if he weren’t scowling. He was in possession of two of the weightiest brows Juno had ever seen. Thick and dark, they commanded his expression, riding low and to the center as he surveyed the assembly. His eyes were also dark, as was his thick thatch of hair. All of him exuded a darkness and sobriety that instantly put Juno on guard. This was the man who was supposed to marry her charge?
“Come, let me introduce you to the duke,” Lady Cosford said.
She had either noticed Juno’s interest in him or was aware of Lady Wetherby’s hope for a match. Juno would find out which.
“Thank you,” Lady Wetherby responded, and they made their way to the corner, where a rain cloud seemed to be parked over the duke’s head.
On the way, Juno whispered into Marina’s ear, “Make eye contact with the duke and smile. I know it’s difficult since you don’t know him, but just remember that he doesn’t like social engagements either.” She’d focused a great deal on the latter in order to alleviate some of Marina’s anxiety.
Lady Cosford came to a halt and smiled into the abyss that was the Duke of Warrington. “Duke, allow me to introduce Lady Wetherby and her daughter, Lady Marina.” She pivoted toward Juno. “And this is Lady Marina’s companion, Mrs. Langton.”
The duke barely looked at Juno, which was fine by her, especially since his attention was entirely on Marina. But his features didn’t soften even the barest degree.
Marina dropped into a lovely curtsey, her eyes on the floor as usual. “Pleased to make your acquaintance, Duke.”
The duke said nothing in response. He flicked a glance toward Lady Wetherby, who also curtsied. Then he did the same to Juno. Executing a flawless curtsey, Juno gave him her most disarming smile. “How wonderful to meet you, Your Grace. We’ve so been looking forward to it, haven’t we, Marina?” She edged closer to her charge, hoping her presence would give the young woman some much-needed courage.
“Yes.” Marina lifted her gaze, but not all the way to his face.
Lady Wetherby frowned slightly at her daughter, and Juno could hear the woman criticizing her later. Leaning close to Marina, Juno whispered more advice. “Mention the weather or our trip. Perhaps ask about his journey?”
Her fingers fidgeting together, Marina stared at the duke’s neck. “It’s a very fine day.”
He stared at her, the creases in his brow, which Juno would wager were ever present, deepening. “I suppose.”
How on earth were these two going to make a match? Juno felt an unfamiliar sensation—a thick knot of agitation in her chest.
“It’s lovely for October,” Lady Cosford said, as if the conversation between the duke and Marina weren’t the most awkward thing to have ever occurred. “I’m so pleased as I’ve planned a picnic for tomorrow. Just down by the lake. It will be splendid!”
Juno very much appreciated the woman’s enthusiasm and clear understanding of the situation—these two people needed help. “Oh yes, that will be most delightful,” she agreed. “What else do you have planned?”
“I’m sure we’ll find out later,” the duke cut in, giving Juno a look of savage irritation.
Biting her tongue, Juno redoubled her efforts to win the man over—not for her, for Marina. “Certainly. And I look forward to it.”
“Excuse me.” The duke took a step to the side and walked around them, making sure not to come too close to Juno. He went to where a footman was dispensing beverages.
“He’s quite surly,” Marina noted, surprising Juno.
“That’s a bit rich coming from you,” Lady Wetherby responded, thankfully with humor and not malice.
“Might I have a drink, Mother?” Marina asked, glancing toward a different footman with a tray.
“I could do with some wine or whatever is available.” Lady Wetherby linked her arm through her daughter’s and they departed, leaving Juno with their hostess.
Juno decided not to mince words. “I take it you are aware of Lady Wetherby’s plan for her daughter to become betrothed to the duke?”
“Yes, I had suspected as much and thought I would do what I could to ensure the match.” Lady Cosford’s sherry-colored gaze moved first to the duke and then to Marina. “They are well suited, don’t you think?”
“I, ah, perhaps.” Juno should just have agreed, but she couldn’t see her sweet charge with someone like the duke. Not that others viewed Marina as “sweet.” She appeared aloof and distracted, even sullen. Juno had thought so too when they’d first met, but after a few days, she’d come to know the true Marina. She was inquisitive and intellectual. She just didn’t like being around people.
Juno ought not judge the duke too harshly. Perhaps he was the same, and in time, they’d all see that it was indeed an excellent match. Thankfully, they had nearly a week to make that determination.
“I propose we join forces,” Lady Cosford said quietly, tipping her head toward Juno’s. “The duke has come to find a wife, and Lady Marina is the only unmarried young lady.”
“Lady Cosford, did you construct the guest list so that His Grace and Lady Marina are the only ones who can make a match?” Juno again saw her potential alignment with Lady Cosford as not only friends but coconspirators.
Lady Cosford let out a gentle laugh. “I may have.” She winked at Juno, the fine lines around her eye crinkling. Juno estimated the woman’s age to be in her mid to late thirties based on the age of her children, but thought she seemed younger. Perhaps that was due to her buoyant disposition.
“Well, if the duke is here to find a wife, he may want to improve his demeanor,” Juno said wryly.
“I understand that is your area of expertise.” Lady Cosford looked toward the duke, who was still glowering at everything and everyone. “Perhaps you can coax out the duke’s…warmer side.”
“If he has one. He’s awfully stiff.” Juno’s mind began to work. She was suddenly invigorated to try to find the duke’s gentler nature. And if he didn’t have one, well, it was better she discover that now and prevent Marina from making a mistake. “I have an idea that will encourage engagement.” She leaned close to Lady Cosford and laid out her plan.
“Marvelous. Let’s commence immediately.” She started to turn, then paused. “I think you must call me Cecilia. I do believe we’re going to be great friends.”
Juno could never have too many of those. “Then you must call me Juno. I look forward to our alliance.” She wriggled her brows before adopting a more serious tone. “I need to maneuver myself next to the rigid duke.”
“Oh, that name might stick,” Cecilia said with a sly smile. “Follow me.”
Hopefully, Marina would do her part when it came her turn, because Juno wasn’t sure she could position herself next to both people who needed her guidance. Goodness, this was going to be a busy and probably taxing house party. She was quite looking forward to the extra payment she would earn for ensuring this match. She’d be able to take a nice long break between positions, which meant enjoying the holidays in Bath and potentially finding a nice gentleman to keep her warm for the winter. Yes, it would all be worth it.
But first, she had to achieve the impossible.
Dare wanted to crawl out of his skin. There were too many bloody people crammed into this drawing room, spacious as it might be. The extensive parkland visible from the wide windows beckoned him outside, where he could escape conversation. And that especially annoying companion whose overwrought charm made him want to leave the house party altogether.
But no. He’d come a great distance to find a wife. At least his potential bride wasn’t irritating. She was quiet and seemed as uncomfortable as he felt. This could very well be the perfect match.
He sipped his sherry, thinking it was time to excuse himself from the gathering, when Lady Cosford moved to the center of the room with her husband. Cosford tapped his glass to gain everyone’s attention.
A lovely floral scent tinged with orange swirled around him. Turning his head, he realized the vexing companion had moved to stand at his side. She smiled up at him, revealing even, white teeth. Her eyes, green like sage, sparkled as if seeing him were the most wonderful thing that had happened to her all day. Did she look at everyone like that? It was more than disarming. It was thoroughly disconcerting.
“Welcome, everyone,” Lord Cosford intoned before glancing at his wife, who stood at his side. “Lady Cosford has a charming activity for us to begin the festivities.”
She gave her husband a bright smile. Watching them together made Dare want to roll his eyes. He glanced toward the companion—what was her name?—to find her watching him with interest. He wished she’d go somewhere else.
“Thank you,” Lady Cosford said to her husband before addressing the room. “I thought it would be amusing to begin with introductions. We’ll go around the room and introduce ourselves, then share something interesting. For example, I would say I’m Lady Cosford and that I enjoy lemon rosemary ices. Let us form a circle around the room—quickly if we can, please.”
She bustled toward the doorway with her husband, effectively blocking an escape unless Dare wanted to throw himself through one of the windows. The idea held astonishing appeal. He didn’t want to stand in a circle, nor did he want to share a bloody thing.
“Let’s just move over here,” the companion said cheerily, effectively steering him into the infernal circle without even touching him. How did she do that?
“Lovely,” Lady Cosford said, again with another grating smile. “I’ve already demonstrated how we will go on, but I’ll offer another tidbit about myself to spark your enthusiasm.” She laughed, and Dare wished he was anywhere else, even a London ballroom. “I like to walk in the rain. Not a downpour, mind you, but a fine mist is quite lovely, especially in the autumn.” She looked over at her husband, and they seemed to share a…connection. A speechless moment in which something passed between them. Shockingly, Dare didn’t want to roll his eyes. He felt a slight but distinct envy.
Shaking the sensation away, he turned his mind to other matters, namely the renovations occurring at his house in London. He would travel there after this to assess the progress. He was so successful in his distraction that he failed to realize it was his turn.
The woman beside him—the companion of his potential betrothed—nudged him gently with her elbow. “Your turn,” she whispered.
Her touch shocked him. No one touched him. Ever. Except when his mother occasionally insisted on hugging him. And his lovers, whenever he decided to take one.
“You’re growling,” she murmured, drawing him to look at her.
Was he? Frowning, he looked at the expectant circle of people and wondered what in the devil he was doing there. “You all know who I am.” He hadn’t given any thought to what he might say, nor had he listened to anyone else. So he said the first thing that came to his mind. “I loathe house parties.”
The reactions were actually rather entertaining. Two ladies clapped their hands over their mouths, and several gentlemen smirked, while at least one nodded in agreement.
The woman beside him sucked in a breath. Now it was her turn.
“I am Mrs. Langton.” She spoke with a warmth and charm that made even Dare want to turn toward her. So he did. “I like to play chess, but I am quite terrible at it.” She shot a provoking look at Dare and added, “Also, I love house parties. Such a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and have a splendid time.”
All Dare could think was that he also enjoyed chess. However, he was an accomplished player, so he couldn’t challenge Mrs. Langton—he found himself wondering what her given name was—to a game.
Wait, he wanted to play chess with her and learn her name?
Only because she was beginning to interest him. He was a disagreeable person, and she didn’t seem vexed by him in the slightest. She was either very good at hiding her emotions, or she was the most pleasant person in England. Perhaps she was both. Whatever she was, he found her intriguing, and that was irritating.
The person next to her continued, and Dare forced himself to look away from Mrs. Langton. She was stunningly attractive, he realized. Petite with a rather intricate hairstyle, and she wore the very latest fashion. He only knew that because his mother enjoyed poring over plates and sharing her favorite styles with him when he visited her at the dower house. Because of this, he could see that Mrs. Langton was quite well turned out for a young lady’s companion. Perhaps there was more to her than met the eye.
Detecting the mischief lurking in her cheerful expression, he could believe that rather easily.
He spent the remainder of the interminable exercise contemplating the woman beside him. How had she come to be Lady Marina’s companion? Was she from a wealthy family? That would explain her clothing. Was she truly a missus, as in a widow, or had she adopted the title as part of her employment?
