Page 24 of A Bride for the Sinful Duke

Hector stood at the top of the stairs and gave a curt nod of acknowledgement to his butler and housekeeper before turning away. He retreated to his study, the only haven where he could momentarily escape the commotion of his new life.

In the comforting quietness of the study, Hector sat behind his mahogany desk and shifted his attention to the stack of ledgers and financial documents that were piled before him. The dim light from the desk lamp reflected shadows across the room, adding a soft ambience.

Though he had capable hands managing his affairs, Hector preferred to personally oversee the final details of his accounts for the season. His focus was intense as he meticulously checked the figures, ensuring everything was in order.

Despite concentrating on the finances, he occasionally paused as his thoughts drifted to Juliet. He wondered whether she was going to settle easily into her new life. He was certain it would take a while for her to become accustomed to it, but he was interested in seeing how she managed.

Hours passed as he buried himself in his work. The gentle ticking of the grandfather clock in the corner was the only sound that accompanied his scribbles and calculations. When the butler’s gentle knock interrupted the quiet, Hector looked up, startled to see how late it had become.

“Your Grace,” the butler said, peeking into the study, “dinner is served.”

Hector glanced at the clock, noting the late hour. He had completely lost track of time.

“Tell my wife not to wait for my arrival before she has her meal. I’ll likely be unable to join her,” he replied, his tone distracted as he returned to his ledgers.

The following day, Juliet woke up to a gentle knock on her door.

The sun was just beginning to rise, and the golden glow streamed invitingly through the window and lit up her room. Juliet pushed herself up into a sitting position and responded with a yawn.

“Come in, please.”

“Good morning, Your Grace,” Leila greeted, walking into the room.

Juliet stifled another yawn as she blinked blearily at her maid, sleepily watching her move about the room and prepare things for Juliet’s day.

She chose two dresses from the wardrobe and held them out for Juliet to choose which one she wanted to wear.

“I like that one,” she said and pointed to the yellow silk.

“All right, Your Grace,” Leila curtsied. “I shall prepare your bath.”

Juliet had her bath, and Leila helped her get dressed. Together, they went downstairs, hoping to explore the grounds before the household awoke.

In the garden, she took long, deep breaths. The air was fresh, and the flowers were just beginning to bloom. As she wandered along the paths, her thoughts drifted to Hector. His stern demeanor in the carriage and the intense way he’d looked at her were confusing. There was something more to him, something he was not sharing. Juliet would have to find out what that was.

Lost in thought, Juliet didn’t hear the approaching footsteps until she saw Leila passing her.

“Your Grace,” the maid curtsied.

“Oh, I am sorry, Leila. I was being a bit absent-minded.”

“That is all right, Your Grace. No need to apologize to me. How are you settling in?”

Juliet turned, offering a small smile. “I think I’m managing well enough for now.”

Leila smiled warmly. “Well, I’m glad to hear that as I am also trying to fit in. The staff here can be rather rigid although the butler is cool-headed.”

Juliet laughed softly. “I hope they aren’t too much of a problem for you.”

Leila shook her head and laughed. “It won’t be once I have learned their ways and where my place is in the fray.”

“Well, let me know if there is any way I can help,” Juliet offered although she was confident Leila was capable of managing the situation herself.

Leila looked like someone who knew what to do, whatever the circumstances. She exuded an air of confidence and capability uncommon among household staff.

“Thank you, Your Grace. I appreciate it.”

From the corner of her eye, Juliet noticed a movement at the front door. It was still early, and she was dressed in nothing more than a simple morning gown thrown over her robe, and her hair had been hastily arranged.

---