Page 93 of A Bride for the Sinful Duke

“I do not like this conversation,” Anne said suddenly, ignoring the aggravated sigh her brother expelled. “Let us discuss better things. You attended a luncheon a few days ago. Did it go well?”

Juliet was grateful for Anne’s attempt to shift her thoughts to lighter matters, but it was unfortunate that her choice of topic was another sore spot for the Duchess.

“It went…It was fine. I just wish I had not gone alone. If I receive another invitation, would you be willing to accompany me, Lady Anne? I am probably being a little too greedy, asking you for another favor when you have blessed me so often with your company in the last few weeks …”

“Oh, no, Your Grace! I would be delighted to accompany you. I know exactly how lonely those occasions can be without any friends that you know. The Ton can be rather hostile to newcomers. I would gladly go with you to spare you the pain of enduring their nasty behavior alone.” Anne smiled kindly.

“We are more than happy to have been present to keep you company here, Your Grace,” her brother added. “We understand that these circumstances have not been easy on you. I can only hope the reasons behind the Duke’s absence were honorable.”

With all the worries that were swirling around within Juliet, all she could do was hope for the same.

CHAPTER 35

“Thank you, again, for agreeing to accompany me, Lady Anne.”

Anne smiled reassuringly and nodded. “Of course, Your Grace. I did tell you I was happy to attend any event with you if you wished. In fact, you are doing me a favor by getting me out of the house. My brother has been rather irritable lately, and it has not been an enjoyable experience, sharing the same space with him.”

“Oh,” Juliet frowned. “Perhaps he is stressed by his work? I know that it seems to be what is keeping Hector away for such a prolonged time.”

“Perhaps. He has been rather secretive with his dealings lately. I think he merely does not want me to worry. He’s always liked shielding me from all his dire concerns,” Anne mused thoughtfully.

“See? Maybe that is all there is. Do not worry too much.”

Anne nodded again, just as the carriage came to a slow stop in front of the Crawford estate where the party they were attending would be hosted.

When Juliet had received the invitation, she had been reluctant to go to yet another event where she would be subjected to whispers and ridiculous rumors. But then she recalled that Anne had offered her company and resolved that she could endure it if she had someone along with her to keep her mind off the conversations centered around her.

The party was in the garden of the estate, and already the night was abuzz with happy, excitable conversations and lively music. The area was lit up by bright lanterns, and there were numerous tables around carrying refreshments and appetizers.

Anne quickly pointed out the host, a Baroness Crawford with loud boisterous laughter and glowing cheeks. The woman appeared to be having the best time surrounded by all her guests as she practically danced from one conversation to another.

Juliet knew that she would have to speak with her eventually, to at least thank her for the invitation, but Anne pulled her towards the assortment of treats, saying gently,

“You should eat something. You look nervous, and I’m sure a conversation might cause you to lose your appetite sooner or later.”

Juliet conceded in favor of the mini cakes which were some of the best she had ever tried, soon lost in their flavor as Anne supplied some gossip of her own.

The younger woman seemed well informed, just as she had been during her first visit to Islington Hall, pointing out who was doing what with covert ease.

“I heard that Lady Stevens has been calling on the physician far too much lately, over the most trifle matters. First it was a headache then a sore throat, and the further the days go by, the less serious her issues are. There are rumors that she might be sleeping with him!” she whispered.

“No! Is she not married?” Juliet gasped.

“She might as well not be, given how often her husband is away on business. His works always takes him as far as France, and it is widely known that she does not like to sleep alone. The doctor might only be her most recent fixation,” Anne mumbled as she lifted her glass to her lips.

“Well, that is just?—”

“Your Grace! How kind of you to make it!”

Juliet straightened her posture immediately, pulling on a smile she had long since learned to craft for the benefit of the person on the other end of it.

“Lady Crawford. Thank you for inviting me,” she said. “Your party has been a lovely time so far.”

“I’m glad you think so,” the Baroness smiled, looking pleased. “It took me ages to plan it, and I am determined to ensure that my guests have a swell time.”

“It is being had, My Lady,” Anne assured kindly.

“It might have been much better, had the Duchess of Islington failed to make an appearance.”

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