The Duke's Quandary (Entangled Scandalous) by Hutton Callie

Author:Hutton, Callie [Hutton, Callie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: duke, bluestocking, Scandalous, entangled publishing, Entangled Scandalous, Regency, ugly duckling, Forced marriage, scientist, ton, Historical romance, botany, opposites attract
Publisher: Entangled Publishing, LLC
Published: 2014-03-09T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter Fourteen

Penelope tugged on the cuffs of her cornflower blue morning dress, tucked an errant curl behind her ear, then knocked softly on the duchess’s sitting room door. Her Grace had just sent word that she would like to speak with her.

It was two days after the coming-out ball, and although everyone told her what a success it had been, she still cringed when she remembered the mishap with the footman. But nothing could have been permanently stamped on her brain more than the kiss she and Drake had shared. Right before he told her how inadequate he found her. Well, perhaps he hadn’t quite said that, but he had certainly inferred it.

She’d managed to avoid him since that fateful evening, and had started taking her meals with Marion in her room. She told herself it had nothing to do with cowardice, and everything to do with helping Marion. The young widow was coming along quite nicely, and they had enjoyed several walks in the garden.

“Come in,” the duchess called.

She entered, and came to an abrupt halt when she saw Drake sitting next to his mother. He glanced at her, then found the vase of flowers alongside him very interesting.

“Please, dear, have a seat.” The duchess folded her hands in her lap and smiled. “I have a favor to ask of you.”

“Anything, Your Grace. You’ve been so kind to me.”

“Excellent. Marion would like to take a trip to the country. From what she tells me, she tried to leave the grounds during one of your strolls recently and the noise and confusion of the city drove her back. Needless to say, I am thrilled she wants to take this step.”

Not sure where this was going, Penelope merely nodded.

“Drake has graciously offered to escort Marion to Manchester Manor for a short visit. My daughter has asked that you accompany her on this trip, since she feels so comfortable in your presence.”

Travel to the country with Drake? And stay? She slanted a look at her nemesis, who regarded her with raised eyebrows and a smirk. A challenge, perhaps?

“Of course, Your Grace. I would be honored.” Actually, if not for the time she must spend with the duke, she would enjoy a trek to the country. Time out of doors with clean fresh air, and the lovely smell of early summer flowers and flora.

“When did you want to leave?” she asked Drake, coolly assessing him.

“Tomorrow, first light. If we do that, we only have to stop overnight once.”

Anxious to leave his presence, she rose. “I will begin to prepare myself for the journey, then. If you will excuse me, Your Graces.” She turned on her heel and, chin raised, left the room.

Drat!

…

The sun hadn’t even peeked over the horizon when Penelope climbed into the carriage that would take her, Drake, and Marion to Manchester Manor. Drake had opted to ride his horse, Abaccus, leaving the two women to travel in the carriage. It was just as well. Things were still awkward between them.

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