Page 27 of Wicked Is the Duke
She and Blackmont had hardly had any time alone since the incident with Carlisle.
What had concerned her was Lady Caroline; after all, she was unmarried, despite being through three seasons. Anna had no particular like of the young woman, but she was concerned enough to realize Lady Caroline might be in on the entire thing. She made it well known she wished a match with Henry, though he had no interest in her. Anna knew she needed to keep her eyes open. Her wedding wasn't for two more days, and a lot could happen. Especially since she'd overheard one of Norwood's men tell him the earl and Lady Caroline were still in the village.
"Enjoy your day with Blackmont," Jane said. "I'll include him for supper this evening."
"Thank you."
Jane put the scandal sheet aside and finished off her coffee. "If you'll excuse me, I'm meeting with my housekeeper."
"Do you meet with her often?"
"Usually once a month, though we go over meals once a week," she replied, cocking her head. "Be sure to do the same. Though most housekeepers are quite efficient, it doesn't hurt to let them know you like to know what's going on."
"I will. I thought I would meet with her again after Blackmont and I are married. We aren't taking a wedding trip right away, so I'm sure I'll have plenty of time on my hands."
Jane rose and smiled. "I have no doubt you'll do a fine job."
Anna watched as her friend turned and walked out of the room. She knew Jane and Norwood were madly in love and wondered if she and Blackmont would share such passion. She was certain they would have a long and happy marriage.
The butler entered the room, standing near the door. "The duke of Blackmont's carriage has arrived for you, Miss Grover."
"Very well. Let me fetch my things."
The older man nodded and left. Anna took one last bite of toast and followed it with the remainder of her tea before rising. Today would probably be the last time she and Henry would see each other before their wedding. Tomorrow would be filled with activities. She would have a final fitting for her dress and would oversee her lady’s maid packed her things in order.
Her brother would also be arriving. His letter indicated he'd arrive the following day. Though she'd hoped Robert would have made it earlier, she knew he had to tie up loose ends in London. After the ceremony and breakfast, he would be headed to the coast to embark on a trip to the continent. She'd miss him, but she was certain Robert would enjoy his life as a bachelor without having to see to the needs of his sister. They'd been together for so long, Anna knew it would be an adjustment for them both.
As the carriage pulled up in front of the Blackmont home, the first thing she saw was Henry standing at the bottom of the stairs, waiting on her arrival. He opened the door to the carriage, and putting his hands on her waist, swung her down, not waiting for the stairs to be lowered.
He looked handsome as ever, dressed for riding, not a thing out of place. She wondered what today would bring. Had he intended to take them back to the lake and the small cottage? Or did he have other plans? The estate was huge, and she imagined they hadn't touched but a small portion on their ride the day before. Of course the weather had put an end to that.
"Come, I want to show you your rooms. After, we'll take a ride. If that meets with your approval."
"It does, and I'm quite excited to see my rooms," she replied. "I, um, overheard Norwood mention to his butler that the earl and Lady Caroline hadn't left the village."
"Yes, I've heard. Not to worry, Anna. Both Norwood and I have men watching them."
She nodded and put her hand on his forearm. "That makes me feel better."
"I would never let anything happen to you. You know that, don't you?"
Again she nodded, smiling. "Yes, I know. I can't believe I'm so lucky to have found you, Henry."
He led her into the house and up the stairs. Anna tried to keep everything in her head, where she was and what was present. Finally, they came upon a thick oak door. Henry opened it and led her inside. The sitting room was elegantly furnished in various shades of pink and white. The furniture was French, white with gold with upholstery of pink or cream. The theme was carried out throughout the suite.
"These are the duchess's chambers. You may do whatever you wish to make it your own."
"They're magnificent, Henry."
"I'm glad you like them. The bathing chamber has hot and cold water, so you won't have to wait on footmen." He pointed to another door across the room. "That leads to my rooms. I hope you will sleep in my bed and use these to dress or whatever else you need."
She was drawn to the windows and neared. "What a marvelous view." The rooms looked out onto the massive Blackmont gardens, a lot of which Anna had yet to see. "I imagine if you open the windows at certain times it smells divine."
Henry chuckled, walking toward her. "I take it you approve?"
"Oh, yes."
"Excellent. If you're ready, I believe the horses are waiting."
