The Duke's Decision by Carolina Prescott

Author:Carolina Prescott [Prescott, Carolina]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: spies; Napoleonic Wars; English Regency; puzzles; codes; confirmed bachelor; widowed heroine
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc.
Published: 2020-11-20T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 18

Thunderclouds towering up from the horizon broke up the blue sky, and wind gusts whipped at Vivian’s skirts as she sought refuge away from the confines of Haversham House.

Most of the guests had taken themselves into town for a shopping trip, so she was free to roam the grounds without fear of running into anyone who might wonder at her hasty exit without bonnet and shawl or at the suspicious brightness in her eyes. Her mind raced with panicked visions of Linney’s ruined debut and bleak future—all because of her association with Vivian. Images of a smiling Lord Blount peppered the scenes running through her head, and at every curve stood the Duke of Whitley, blocking her way forward.

What was it about the man that made her so volatile? Apart from his epic arrogance and his patronizing condescension, what was it that made her lose all semblance of control whenever she was in his presence? Those icy blue eyes looked through her as if he could see straight into her soul and ascertain her greatest fears. Or, more likely, she scoffed, exploit her greatest weaknesses. And the nerve of him referring to that carriage ride. He certainly was no gentleman. He was pompous to an extreme, and she never wanted to see him again!

Her pace kept up with her thoughts. She had to get him out of her head…or her heart…or wherever else he was. She must concentrate on how to protect Linney.

It was clear that she had to leave her aunt and uncle’s home as soon as possible. Lord Blount’s disgusting insinuations—as false as they were—could devastate Linney’s chances for a successful season. No one would be interested in whether the sensational rumors were true or not. The simple fact of their existence would be enough to destroy her cousin’s reputation.

Vivian finally slowed her steps. She had to think. She could hardly abandon Linney at Lady Haversham’s party without a chaperone—especially with Lord Blount still as a guest. Perhaps she could convince Linney to return to London? But that thought was quickly replaced with a picture of Linney strolling with Lord Hammond, their heads close together as they laughed and talked. She could claim a sudden malady and insist that they leave early, but it would break Linney’s heart.

Perhaps if she talked to Lord Blount. Met with him. Pretended to be amenable to paying him the blackmail. She shuddered involuntarily at the idea.

Perhaps she could tell the baron she needed to talk with Uncle Will in person and wouldn’t be able to do so until they returned from the house party. Maybe that would stall him for a while. Maybe that would give Lord Hammond time to declare himself. With as much time as he was spending with Linney, surely he had honorable intentions. But what if Lord Blount demanded payment now?

Round and round, her thoughts chased her down the path that edged Haversham Lake and led to the forest beyond. Paying no attention to the rumblings of

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