Page 67 of Wicked Is the Duke
Chapter Twenty-Three
Anna's first photographswere of the buildings that housed the duke's pottery business. He wanted everything documented, as did she. She set up her equipment, keeping the wagon, which held her plates and other items, nearby. Luckily, the day was sunny with barely a cloud in the sky. She took her time, walking around the building, checking the lighting and angles she thought to use.
Aware people were watching her, she continued, smiling at those who came forward to ask questions of her. People were astounded to see a duchess carry out this sort of work. Few had seen photographic equipment up close. The medium, while not entirely new, was still in its infancy. It was considered a luxury by those living in rural settings.
Just as she was about to finish with her exterior shots, her husband came out of nowhere walking toward her. She hadn't expected him today. His business meetings seemed to keep him well occupied, and she didn't mind being on her own.
"I thought we agreed you could not go inside to photograph. It's not the sort of place a duchess belongs without an escort."
"I haven't been inside. I've merely been taking pictures of the exterior as you requested," she replied.
"How did you expect to do the inside?"
"As we agreed, with an escort. I planned on spending today on the exteriors. The interiors can wait until you have time to show me around."
His jaw was set, a muscle ticking along his jaw line.
"Very well. What can I do to help?”
He handed her a fresh plate and took the one she'd just used.
"Thank you," she whispered.
"You’re welcome."
***
He needed to whiskher away from here and to the sanctity of his estate. She'd been so excited when he'd asked her to document his porcelain factory with photographs, but he’d discovered from the man he had working for him that it wasn't safe for his bride to be so exposed. Her work here was attracting a small crowd. Any one of them could be working for people wishing to do her harm. But who?
Luring his wife away normally wasn't a problem, but she was in the middle of something she adored and it was going to be hard to pull away.
Keeping a lookout for anyone suspicious, Henry watched as Anna ignored him and went about her business. Trying to make himself useful, but keeping an eye on his wife, he helped her move equipment and handed her plates.
Either fortunately or unfortunately, dark storm clouds appeared on the horizon, a fast-moving rain bearing down on them.
"Anna, come. Let's pack up your equipment and head back home."
She shook her head after looking at the approaching storm. "No, I still have some time. I want to finish this building first."
