Page 63 of Married to the Cruel Duke

“Yes, well, this promenade is my first time going out since becoming the Duchess of Danton. I want to make a good impression.”

“You don’t need to worry. I just know you are going to do great.”

She took a deep breath. “Thank you. I just hope he and Penelope will get along all right.”

“Why wouldn’t they?”

“I don’t know. It’s just hard not to worry that something will go horribly wrong.”

She laughed. “Well, try not to. You’re going to have a great time, I just know it.”

She smiled. “Thank you. I will try to relax.”

Mary opened her mouth to say something else, but before she could, there was a knock at the door.

“Come in,” Rebecca called.

A footman stepped inside with a bow. “Miss Sutton is here to see you.”

She nodded. “Oh, of course. Please let her know William and I will be right down.”

The man bowed then slipped form the room.

“Well, I suppose I should head down now. Thank you again, Mary for helping me to get ready today.”

“I’m always happy to help, your Grace. I hope you have a wonderful time.”

“I’m sure I will. Thank you again.

Then Rebecca got to her feet and started making her way down the long halls. Her heart pounded in her chest. She wasn’t sure why she was so nervous. It wasn’t like they were doing anything all that adventurous.

It was just a walk she reminded herself as she stepped into the siting room where Penelope was already waiting.

She lit up when she saw her long time friend.

“It’s good to see you again,” Penelope said, pulling her in for a tight hug. “It has been too long.”

Rebecca chuckled “it has only been a few weeks.”

“As I said, too long. When will WIlliam be joining us?”

“Not long I’m sure. I thought the three of us could enjoy a nice walk together at the park.”

“I know. You already told me as much in your letter. Why do you seem so nervous?”

“I’m not,” she squeaked.

Penelope shot her a look. “You know you can’t lie to me.”

She sighed. “I’m just nervous. It’s my fist time going out since I was married.”

“So? It isn’t like you have to make a pig production out of it.”

“I know, but I just want to make a good impression. Especially since it isn’t like I got out much before.”

“That just makes it even easier.”

“How?”

---