A Suitable Bride by Fenella J. Miller

Author:Fenella J. Miller [Miller, Fenella J.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2016-01-14T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Thirteen

Grace and her companion mingled with the assembled guests and although not exactly friendly, no one turned their back as they had done at lunchtime.

‘They are serving champagne, do you wish to have a glass, Aunt Sarah?’

‘I think not, my dear, alcohol doesn’t agree with my digestion. If we don’t wish to drink shall we wait on the terrace – it’s rather crowded and hot in here.’

‘As long as we remain where can hear the announcement about the treasure hunt, I don’t wish to miss that. I’m certain we’ll be the winners.’

There were one or two other people enjoying the fresh air but they remained apart. ‘I didn’t see the duke or Lord Sheldon in the drawing room, did you?’

‘No, Grace, I didn’t. I expect they’ll be here soon.’

‘The duke’s coming this way.’ She had a sinking feeling inside that his purpose wasn’t to give her any good news. His expression was distant, he looked every inch a haughty aristocrat.

He stopped in front of them and didn’t bow – in fact he didn’t acknowledge them at all. Grace knew that she should curtsy, but refrained.

‘Miss Newcomb, today I received information that Miss DuPont is not who she purports to be. I wish you both to leave Silchester Court immediately. Instructions have already been sent to your servants to pack your trunks and your grooms are harnessing your carriage.’

How dare he ignore her and speak to her companion instead? He might be a duke, but he was no gentleman. Instead of being humiliated or upset by his rudeness she was incensed.

‘Unless you intend to physically remove us from your house, sir, I’ve no intention of being evicted tonight. If you expect my staff, my companion and I to spend the night without a roof over our heads, then you can think again. I shall be delighted to depart before breakfast tomorrow morning.’ She let her gaze travel slowly from his crown to his toes. ‘Anyone who marries into this family has my sympathy. You are arrogant and unpleasant and being the Duke of Silchester is no excuse for your behaviour.’

She didn’t wait to see his reaction but stalked back through the drawing room, head held high, looking to neither left nor right. She kept her composure until she reached her apartment but then she began to shake and collapsed into the nearest chair.

Aunt Sarah followed her in. ‘My word, that was absolutely splendid, my dear. You were magnificent and put that man to shame. However, perhaps we’d better lock the door just in case he does send men to carry us out.’

The idea was so nonsensical that Grace recovered her composure and laughed. ‘Can you imagine the scandal if we were to be dragged kicking and screaming through the house in front of the cream of society? I almost wish he’d try.’

‘So you don’t wish me to lock the doors?’

‘Absolutely not. That man is despicable – I’m not surprised he’s still a bachelor – even his title isn’t enough to persuade anyone to marry him.

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