The Scandalous Elopement (The Dunne Family Series Book 7) by Chasity Bowlin

Author:Chasity Bowlin [Bowlin, Chasity]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2022-05-28T18:30:00+00:00

Hiding in a linen cupboard in the corridor, Fiona watched as Charlotte strolled down the corridor with the duchess. It was not intended to appear that they were springing a trap, after all, but that on a casual stroll, they would discover her with the Earl of Kenworth.

Peering through the crack in the door, she noted Charlotte glancing along the corridor where her slippers and the belt to her wrapper were intended to have been discarded. All of those items were currently clutched against her chest, as she’d retrieved them before dashing into the cupboard to hide.

“Your grace, I am certain you are aware of the somewhat scandalous events that precipitated the betrothal of Miss Stamford and the earl,” Charlotte stated, her gaze narrowed in irritation.

“I am well aware of those events, Lady Bruxton. It would be impossible not to know them. It is the scandal of the year, after all,” the duchess said.

“Well, you may be unaware that all of that was a ploy executed by Miss Stamford because she wished to have the earl for herself. She used the rumors and gossip to trap the poor man when his heart is engaged elsewhere,” Charlotte lied smoothly.

The duchess’s steps faltered. “Surely you are mistaken, Lady Bruxton! I cannot believe Miss Stamford would be so dishonest.”

“I’m afraid it’s true. The earl had previously been paying court—very discreetly, of course—to Miss Trimble. They had been spending a great deal of time together, but alas, that has all now come to an end, and I fear they are both quite heartbroken over the matter.”

The duchess stopped walking entirely, right before the cupboard. “Why are you telling me all of this?”

Charlotte simpered. “Because you are such an influential member of society. I had hoped to beg your interference on behalf of Miss Trimble. She and the earl are quite meant for one another, and love should conquer all, should it not?”

The duchess made a loud harrumph. “I shall consider the matter carefully. Meddling in such affairs requires a great deal of thought. I will let you know what I decide.”

“Thank you, your grace,” Charlotte said and curtsied deeply to the other woman, who then continued down the corridor alone. Charlotte stood in that same spot until the duchess was well out of earshot before hissing, “Fiona? Fiona, where are you?”

Opening the cupboard cautiously, Fiona stuck her head out. “There was no time to send word. The earl was not in his chamber. No doubt he was having some sort of tryst with that trollop who has stolen him from me!”

Charlotte glowered at her. “Must I do everything, Fiona? Did you not think to ask a servant to watch the earl? To keep you apprised of his whereabouts? I’m beginning to think you’ve no wish to marry him at all. Is that true, Fiona?”

“No! Of course it isn’t! I want very much to marry him…to be the Countess of Kenworth.”

Charlotte stamped her foot. “Then, you should act like it. We will reconvene tomorrow. At the moment, I cannot stand the sight of you with your failures and excuses.

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