Page 25 of Married to the Cruel Duke

“Of course, and I wouldn’t want to interrupt anyone from what they were doing, but I was only wondering because I haven’t seen a single person since I left my room.”

“I can assure you they are around. I believe William asked them to give you space when you first arrived so that you could settle in in peace. He may have even give some of them time off for the occasion, knowing him.”

Rebecca forced a tight smile. “I see.”

“Is there someone in particular you are looking for?”

She hesitated.

“If it is William, I can warn you, I doubt you’ll see him any time soon. He’s holed up at his desk with work.”

“Of course. I’m sure he is rather bust being a Duke and all. What about Mrs. Anderson? I was hoping to learn a little about the running of the estate sometime today.”

“I see,” his face did something strange Rebecca couldn’t quite place. “I wouldn’t know where to tell you to look.”

“That’s alright. I appreciate it.

He turned to go, “I wish you luck on your search.”

“Thank you,” she said before setting off down the hall once more.

It took quite some time before she saw anyone again, but eventually, she rounded a corner and saw Mrs. Anderson walking down the hall.

She lit up, walking up to the housekeeper. “Mrs. Anderson! How are you this afternoon.”

“I am quite well, your face. Are you settling in all right?”

“I am, thank you.”

“I am glad to hear it.” Then she turned to go, but Rebecca called out to her.

“I was hoping you could show me a little of what goes into maintaining the estate.”

She turned to her with a frown. “Don’t you want to settle in a little more first? Your lady’s maid hasn’t even arrived yet.”

“But wouldn’t it be better to start sooner rather than later?”

“Perhaps, but it is such a big change for you. There’s no need to rush these things.”

She tried not to let her disappointment show too much. “I see. Well, you are the expert in these things. If you think we should wait, then I should trust you.”

“”That’s very wise of you,” Mrs Anderson said with a strange smile.

“How long do you think we should wait?”

“I can’t be sure, but I will let you know when I think you seem ready to start.”

“Alright, thank you.”

She moved to go, but Rebecca stopped her again. “Wait!”

She turned with a sigh. “Yes?”

“I was wondering if there was anything I could be working on while I get settled in?”

“Not at the moment, but I will let you know if I can think of anything.” Then she turned and walked away without another word, leaving Rebecca alone in the hall.

She continued to aimlessly roam the halls until it was getting late in the evening.

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