Page 15 of Wicked Is the Duke
Chapter Six
Afortnight later,Anna's carriage stopped in front of the Earl of Norwood's country estate. Norwood Manor loomed in front of her, three stories of Portland stone.
Though Blackmont's estate bordered Norwood Manor, it was a good way to the house. Thinking of the duke, Anna wondered when she'd see him. Not that he'd been anything but attentive to her since he began courting her. Books, flowers, and trinkets showed up at her house daily, sometimes with Blackmont, other times not. Anna had never been courted by a man who paid such lavish attention to her.
A whirl of skirts came racing down the stairs towards her. "Anna, it's so good to see you," Jane said breathlessly. Though now the Countess of Norwood, Jane didn't stand by society rules when it came to guests in her home. "I trust you had a good journey?"
"Yes, I did." She gazed up at the house once more. "I'd forgotten how large the house is."
"I've about got Norwood convinced we should do some updating. You know, new wall coverings and such. I don't think some rooms have changed since his great-great grandfather's time." She giggled.
"I'm sure you want to put your mark on the house."
"Yes, but enough. Let's get you inside. Would you like me to show you to your room, or would you prefer some tea before I show you?"
"Tea would be most welcome."
They walked to the drawing room. Jane whispered to the butler to have tea brought to them. The room was done in reds and gold, and Anna saw what Jane had been talking about. The dark red silk wall covering was faded in places from many years of sun.
"How are things progressing with my brother?" Jane asked as she sat down on a gold brocade sofa. She patted the cushion beside her. Anna sat down next to her.
"Quickly, which does not surprise me. Robert told him he wanted a quick courtship."
Jane arched her brow. "That's a bit odd, isn't it?"
"No, not at all. He simply wants to have me settled. He's going to the continent while I'm here, and I believe his business on the continent will entail more trips for him."
"He could always take you along."
Anna shook her head. "He could, but he won't. I've been following my brother long enough. He's right, it's time I settled."
"And my brother is the one?"
Anna nodded and smiled shyly. "Yes, I believe he is."
Jane pressed her. "Has he discussed marriage, a future with you?"
