Page 56 of Married to the Cruel Duke

She found herself relaxing in the saddle, confidence growing with every step.

“Doing all right back there?” William called. “I know you said you didn’t have much experience.”

“I don’t but I feel good so far. Sunflower is a sweet girl.”

“I’m glad to hear it, but still be careful. Horses can be unpredictable animals.”

“It’s all right,” she smiled. “I trust her.”

He blinked in shock. “Then perhaps you trust too easily.”

The pair enjoyed a pleasant ride for the rest of the afternoon, only returning when it was close to dinner time.

“That was lovely,” Rebecca said. “Thank you so much for inviting me along.”

“It was nothing. I was going to go either way, so there was no harm in bringing you along.”

“Still, you didn’t need to think of me, so thank you.”

He looked away. “Yes, well, I will see you at dinner.”

“Your right. I need to go wash up before we can eat. I’m going to head up a bit early.”

“I had assumed you would want to. Mary should be in your room with a bath and change of clothes.”

“Thank you for setting all that up.”

“Again, it was nothing.”

The pair went their separate ways, Rebecca making her way up to her room where Mary met her, a gent smile on her face.

“Welcome back, your grace. How was your ride?”

“It was lovely, thank you.”

Mary set to work helping her undress then got her into the waiting wash bason.

“You won’t believe what came in while you were out,” Mary said as she helped wash Rebecca’s hair.

“What?”

“The gowns you ordered.”

“So soon?” she gasped in surprise.

“I know. I was rather shocked myself. Would you like me to pull one of them for you to wear tonight?”

“Yes, thank would be perfect. Thank you, but please send someone to let William know we will be dressing more formally.”

“Of course Ma’am.”

She helped her finish up in the bath then stood.

“Why don’t you enjoy the warm water for a few moments while I go get your evening apparel ready.”

And so a few minutes later, Rebecca got her first look at her new gowns. When she saw it, she gasped.

“It’s beautiful,” she said, unable to help herself from reaching out and running her hands long the smooth silk.It was a pale yellow with gold work along the hem.

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