Page 10 of The Undesirable Duke
“I have heard that he is quite handsome, and he attended Oxford. He sounds like a very fine match, Miss Colborne.”
“We shall see,” Lillian smiled slightly.
From the far corner of the store, two young women were heard, despite their attempts to keep their voices hushed.
“Did you hear that he has returned to London?”
“I am quite surprised that he dared to show his face here, after all the rumors about his antics.”
“Are you certain that those are true?”
“Why would they not be true? His Grace does frequent Brooks’. He was seen there again last night with a friend of his.”
“Why would he frequent such places if he is financially ruined? And for that matter, where would he get the resources to travel to London from his estate in the countryside?”
Lillian’s brow furrowed and she turned to her mother.
“Who are they speaking of?”
“Does it matter?”
“Of course it does.”
Lillian stepped down from the pedestal before Madame Periaux and Lady Welsford were able to stop her.
“Lillian…” Lady Welsford hissed, but she ignored her mother.
Lillian approached the two young women, who were approximately her age, and cleared her throat.
“Pardon me for the very abrupt intrusion, ladies, but who do you speak of?”
The two young ladies were stunned momentarily and stared at Lillian. After they regained their composure, one motioned to Lillian’s half-finished dress.
“That certainly is a lovely color on you.”
“Thank you,” Lillian nodded. “I do apologize for asking, but I could not help but overhear part of your conversation. Who were you two speaking of a moment ago?”
“The Duke of Yarmouth.”
“He has been frequenting Brooks’ gentlemen’s club and has gambled away his fortune, so it is said.”
“It is also said that he was spotted in variousundesirablehaunts here in London, with Haymarket ware.”
“What does that mean?” Lillian asked.
“He was seen in the company of Birds of Paradise.”
Lillian’s brow furrowed and she shook her head. Still not understanding.
“Brothels, of course.”
Lillian cringed and was taken aback by the harsh word that the young woman had used, but she now understood what she spoke of. Lillian was not allowed to bring up such improper topics, despite her knowing that Timothy frequented Brooks’ as well. He would often parade into Welsford House, more than a little half-sprung, at ghastly times of the evening, or rather the morning. She could only imagine what her mother would say if she was aware of what he did. But then again, she would do nothing, or Timothy would get off very lightly. He always did.
“Where did you hear all of this?” Lillian inquired with a frown.
“Do you not read the newspaper?”
“A whole article was written about the Duke.”
