Page 33 of Duke in Shining Armor
Perish the thought. She must never be in another man’s arms.
As he watched her dance, he wondered if she had feelings for him. He thought to find out as they danced, but her expression had been difficult to read.
James had gone to see the duchess and asked her to personally attend to Catherine. He begged her to ask no questions, and his mother was elated that he had shown so much interest in a lady of good standing. He was sure potential grandchildren had already clouded her thoughts. From what he observed, the duchess had taken a liking to Catherine, and this pleased him greatly. She could not have done more to make her feel welcomed as she was launched into society.
Catherine had also surprised him for she seemed to enjoy the evening, particularly with the Marquess of Claydon. James was not pleased when he saw her smile at the marquess, and it took great effort to remain rooted where he stood. Poor chap, James thought as he considered the marquess.
The marquess did not know that he did not stand a chance, because James had been planning Catherine’s pursual for twelve months, and he would not be thwarted. For the entire twelve months he thought of Catherine, and nothing was more important than being reunited with her again. He would not allow anyone to stand in his way.
Now that he ascertained she did not wish to spend time with him, he had a notion of how he would proceed on the morrow. He chuckled to himself. She was only just getting to know him before she travelled to Switzerland. Catherine did not know how formidable James was when he ardently pursued something, but she would soon find out.
* * *
Catherine awakened to birds chirping.Drat. She did not know what these birds were so happy about. She immediately admonished herself for such reasoning for it was not the bird’s fault that she was in such an irritable mood. She rang for her lady’s maid and prepared to break her fast. She was sure the ball would be the topic of conversation at the dining table this morning, so she decided to eat in her bedchamber. She did not wish to hear everyone going on about it and what the duke’s attentions meant.
On a positive note, her parents were very pleased with her debut, and she must confess that the evening was more enjoyable than she thought it would be. She was introduced to several eligible bachelors, all with titles and wealth, and she was sure to receive calling cards within the coming days. It was a pity only one gentleman had made her night restless.
A knock on the door interrupted her thoughts, and her mother promptly entered.
“Good morning, Catherine. I trust you rested well.”
“Good morning, mama. I did and I feel refreshed.”
“I daresay it was a dazzling evening, entertaining, yet enjoyable.
“I see.” It was just as Catherine thought.
A quizzical look crossed the countess’s face. “Are you sure you are well?”
“Yes, mama.”
A wide smile curved her mouth. “Good because you’ve already received a calling card from the duke.”
Her mother presented Catherine with a beautifully engraved calling card bearing the name of the Duke of Pembroke.
“We’ve already dispatched our calling card in response, with an invitation. You do remember the duke requested to call upon you today.”
“Of course, I remembered,” she murmured, not liking the way flutters went off low in her belly.
“Good. I have asked for some perfumed water to be brought up, so you can take a wash and be prepared when he arrives. I shall see you in the drawing room.”
The lady’s maid helped Catherine to prepare herself. She made such a fuss that the process took much time, and Catherine was frustrated for she did not wish to be delayed. Her father could not abide lateness. She had no doubt her father would speak to the duke before she arrived, and she was curious about what he would say. She proceeded downstairs, and as she approached the drawing room door, she heard chatter and laughter, James’s unmistakable voice.
She knocked on the door and waited to be admitted. As she entered the room, both her father and James stood as they exchanged greetings. She sat in her favorite chair before both men returned to their seats.
“Catherine, my dear, it is a lovely day out, and the duke would like to accompany you on a carriage ride through Hyde Park.” Her father peered at her expectantly. Even in his gaze she spied matrimonial fervor. It was a pity they did not know the duke did not wish to marry. Though he could have changed his perspective in the year. Whatever his reasons, a man of his…licentious character would never consider her a good fit for himself.
Oh, Catherine, do stop getting ahead of everything, she silently berated herself.
“Catherine?” Father demanded a bit sharply.
“It is indeed a lovely day for a stroll in the park,” Catherine said with a sweet smile although she was clenching her teeth.
What was this rogue … this charlatan, trying to accomplish? She recognized he sought to be alone with her, but she shall not succumb to his wily charm. She most certainly would not be beguiled.
“It’s settled them. Helen will accompany you.”
“Very well, father; allow me to fetch my parasol.” She rose to exit, and they stood while she departed the room.
