Page 61 of Married to the Cruel Duke

“We did,” William said. “It was a nice change of pace. In fact I would go as far as to sa we should go for walks more often.”

“I would be free if you wanted to,” Rebecca hesitantly volunteered. “Mrs. Anderson said I didn’t need to spend as long studying if I had something else I wanted to do as long as I kept trying hard and come to her if I have any questions.”

“I”m glad to hear you have already made so much progress. Perhaps we could start doing morning walks together.”

“I think that sounds lovely, but do you have that much time?”

Patrick chuckled. “You don’t need to worry so much. He has far more time then he lets on.”

“Careful, if you tell her all my secrets sh may start using them for her own.”

From there the meal continued in a pleasant buzz. When the evening was coming to an end, Patrick managed to get a moment alone with Rebecca when William had to step away for a moment.

“How are the two of you doing?” he asked.

“William said-”

“I know, but I am asking you. He’s- well he is hardly one to talk about what’s going on or how he’s feeling. I don’t actually need to know any details, whatever jokes I might make. I only want to know that the two of you are getting on well.”

Rebecca smiled. “I won’t lie, we got off to a rather rocky start. It took us some time to come to understand one another, but yes, I think that it is more than fair to say that the pair of us are getting on rather well. I won’t speak for William as to how he feels about me, but I know I have grown rather happy about the life we could build together.”

“And the pair of you have began that? Building a life?”

“I would like to think so.”

“Very well,” he got to his feet. “That is all I needed to know. Please tell William I will see him in a few days for our next meeting.”

“I’m sure he will be back any moment if you would rather tell him yourself.”

“I’m sure he will be, but that is quite all right. You were the one I wanted to speak with when I agreed to dinner. I see him often enough. I will have plenty of time to talk to him again then.”

She hesitated a moment more. “Very well, if you’re sure.”

“I am. As I said, I would appreciate it if you would let him know I wish you both a pleasant evening, and that I am happy for you both.”

“Thank you. That is kind of you to say. I hope you have a pleasant evening as well.”

Then they went their separate ways.

Rebecca was only alone for a moment or two before William came back in.

He frowned. “Where did Patrick run off to?”

She looked away. “He said he needed to go but that he would talk to you at your next scheduled meeting.”

“Is that right,” he rolled his eyes. “I supposed I shouldn’t be surprised.” Then for a moment, William hesitated for a moment. “He didn’t say anything to you, did he?”

“Like what?” she frowned.

“Nothing,” he shook his head. “Forget I said anything.”

She studied him for a moment, but when it became clear he asn’t going to say any more, she let it go.

“It’s getting rather late. Perhaps we can talk more on another walk tomorrow morning?”

“Yes, I would like that. I hope you sleep well.”

The next two weeks were spent in each other’s company almost exclusively. They went on walks, enjoyed meals together and slowly became better acquainted.

---