Page 49 of Taken By the Icy Duke

“Exactly,” he cut in smoothly. “And for that, I feel indebted. I thought I might repay your kindness in some small way… perhaps a morning promenade in the park?”

She blinked, glancing at the letters in her arms before looking back up to him, confused by his offer. It was so unlike the usual routine they had fallen into that she was momentarily at a loss for words.

Unless you have other pressing matters?” he asked as his half-smile deepened.

“No… no, not at all,” she said quickly, setting the letters on a small table. “I would be glad for the fresh air.”

“Excellent,” he replied. “I have a carriage waiting.”

His uncharacteristic spontaneity sent a flurry of anticipation through her. Steadying herself, she folded her hands lightly at her waist.

“Then allow me to fetch my bonnet and gloves,” she said, trying not to sound too eager.

Gilbert stepped aside to let her pass, and she could feel the warmth of his regard even without meeting his eyes. An understated hum of excitement vibrated beneath her composure. The fact that he wanted to spend time with her during the day made her heart shine with pleasure.

She darted toward her room, summoning Ruth to assist with her outdoor attire. In the mirror’s reflection, she caught the fleeting pink in her cheeks and the pleased smile that hovered on her lips, and realized that she was undeniably glad to have him home, even more than she cared to admit.

When she returned to the corridor, bonnet ribbons secured and gloves in hand, Gilbert was already waiting by the door. He offered his arm with a courteous flourish. “Shall we, Your Grace?”

“Indeed, Your Grace,” she teased back, slipping her hand through his arm.

Together, they stepped out into the bright morning light, leaving behind the letters, the ledgers, and the constraints of their usual routines—however fleetingly—to enjoy a simple promenade in one another’s company.

Sunshine spilled across the cobblestones as Diana and Gilbert strolled arm in arm. At first they simply wandered the winding paths of Hyde Park, framed by tall elms and manicured lawns. The breeze carried the scent of fresh grass and flowers, a playful reminder that spring was in full bloom. Families picnicked in scattered clusters and children darted about, their shrill laughter punctuating the air.

Diana noticed how Gilbert slowed his usual brisk stride to match her pace. He inquired more than once whether she was comfortable, and if she was enjoying herself. She found his attentiveness endearing, and each small gesture of care increased the warmth that was building in her. They spoke of small things at first—household matters, and minor estate updates—but the weightier concerns of titles and rumors did not intrude on their bright morning. For once, they seemed no more than an ordinary couple enjoying a sunny day together.

When noon approached, Gilbert guided Diana away from the bustle of the park, heading for one of the more noted coffee houses situated along a fashionable thoroughfare. Even from adistance, Diana could see the well-appointed interior: tall chairs and small tables, discreetly placed to allow patrons their privacy.

They paused at the entrance, beneath a discreet sign bearing the coffee house’s name. Though the establishment welcomed members of the aristocracy and gentry alike, it remained rather exclusive.

Footmen out front immediately recognized the Duke of Rivenhall and bowed reverently, holding the door to allow them to enter. Gilbert bobbed his head in acknowledgment and Diana followed him in, recalling the times she had heard other ladies praise the venue as an ideal place to be seen without being on display.

Inside, a hush fell among the patrons—gentlemen in fine coats, and a few ladies in smart day gowns—just long enough to signal that an important couple had arrived. Conversation then resumed at a quieter pitch. An aroma of roasted coffee beans blended enticingly with the sweet smell of pastries, a testament to the coffee house’s reputation for excellent refreshments.

Gilbert offered Diana his arm, and the head steward approached swiftly, bowing deeply.

“Your Graces,” he murmured in measured tones. “What a pleasure to welcome you today. Shall I show you to a private corner?”

Gilbert gave a curt nod, following the steward to a secluded table by a tall window. From there, they could glance outat the passing carriages beyond while still enjoying a sense of exclusivity. The steward discreetly withdrew, promising to return once they were comfortably seated.

Diana sat gracefully, smoothing her skirts as she took in the refined décor. The lofty ceiling, the row of mirrors reflecting warm lamplight, and the quiet elegance of the clientele reminded her that this was a favored spot for those who preferred to conduct themselves with dignity and a measure of formality, rather than in boisterous gatherings.

Gilbert took his seat across from her, meeting her gaze with a subtle curve of his lips.

“I trust this is to your liking?” he inquired.

“Indeed. It is… very smart,” she replied, allowing a small smile to confirm that she found it pleasing. The hush around them seemed less suffocating than some grand banquets; here, people noticed them but did not gape. “I appreciate your thoughtfulness, Gilbert.”

He simply answered by taking up the menu the steward had left. In a more modest establishment, staff might have fawned anxiously, but there the coffee house employees were well-accustomed to members of the nobility. The same steward returned in short order, offering a brief bow before taking their orders.

Gilbert requested his coffee in the continental style he favored—dark and strong—while Diana politely asked after their teaselection, finally choosing a fragrant blend recommended by the steward. The steward also offered a small plate of pastry slices, which Diana accepted with graceful interest.

Once the steward withdrew, Gilbert leaned in slightly, the quiet hum of other patrons granting them a momentary bubble of privacy.

“I suspect this place is discreet enough,” he said mildly.

Diana nodded, casting a brief glance at a gentleman reading a newspaper near the far wall, and another quietly distinguished couple sipping coffee.

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