Page 53 of Married to the Cruel Duke

“For a horse ride?” she confirmed, unable to keep the surprise out of her voice.

“If you like. Of course you are not under any obligation,” he moved to step away, a excuses already growing on his lips.

But she cut all of them off. A bright grin bloomed on her face. “I would love to!”

“Well then, why don’t you go get changed and we can make our way to the stables.”

She faltered.

“Is something the matter? As I said, you are not obligated to go.”

“It isn’t that. I want to, truely, but I am afraid I don’t have anything suitable to wear. I also may not be very good. My father rarely gave me a chance to go riding.”

“That isn’t a problem. You can barrow something of mine.”

She hesitated. “But what if someone sees? It isn’t appropriate.”

“I won’t push the issue, but we can stay on our grounds. Theres no need to go anywhere where we could see others.”

She smiled. “All right then, if you are sure.”

“Perfect. Head up to get changed. I will send someone up with something for you to wear shortly.”

Rebecca smiled. “That sounds perfect.”

They each went their separate ways. Rebecca wasn’t waiting in her room long before Mary came in with a bright smile and a stack of clothing in her hands.

“I hear you want me to help you change to go horse back riding?” she asked with a grin.

“That’s right, but I didn’t have anything of my own. I hope you didn't go to too much trouble to find something for me to wear.”

“Oh, I’m not the one who went to any trouble. Duke Danton just gave me a few of his things for you to wear.”

“His clothes?” she gasped in surprise.

“Yes, is that all right?”

“Of course. I was just surprised he wasn’t able to find something else or that he would offer that at all.”

“I think he must be rather excited to ride with you then.”

“I can’t imagine why. It isn’t as if I am a skilled or experienced horsewoman.”

Mary chuckled. “I imagine it is less about your skills and more about spending time with you. The two of you make such a lovely couple.”

Rebecca flushed, staring out a few words.

Mary continued on as though she had never made the remark to begin with. “Your hair should be fine. Let’s get you changed.”

As Rebecca pulled on his clothes, she couldn’t help but smile. They were so big on her, she almost felt like a little kid playing dress up. The sleeves billowed around her arms and the pants had to be cuffed several times to keep from dragging on the ground.

Then, Mary stood back and smiled at her. “There, you’re ready. I hope you have fun. I’ll be here to help you change when you get back.”

“I’ll try not to keep you waiting around too long.”

She shook her head, “Don’t worry about me. Go and have fun.”

Rebecca hesitated a moment longer then smiled. “Thank you.”

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