Page 8 of The Undesirable Duke
“Yes, indeed.”
Lord Timothy narrowed his eyes at Samuel, not quite certain what he would say next.
“I require your help to unmask this crazed gossiper who insists on mocking me and threatening to ruin my reputation.”
“I do not understand – have they done something more than just publish that article?”
The Duke took a large swallow of his drink and placed the empty glass on the table. He retrieved the letter from his coat and passed it to Lord Timothy.
“I received this letter from this person at my townhouse in Mayfair shortly after my arrival today.”
Lord Timothy’s brow furrowed as he examined the letter
“How on earth did they know that you were to arrive today? Not even I knew.”
“That is the question, my friend. Perhaps he gave someone a coin to wait and watch until I arrived at the townhouse.”
Lord Timothy cocked his head but did not appear convinced.
“Perhaps.”
“Please, help me in my pursuit of this gossip, Colborne.”
Samuel despised begging since he would never force anyone into helping him if they did not wish to, but he had no other option.
“Of course I will help you. You are my friend, Yarmouth. And speaking of being my friend, do you have plans for Christmas?”
“Christmas in London was not in my plans at all, but here I am,” Samuel stated and ran his finger along the rim of the empty glass. “Why do you ask?”
Lord Timothy’s face lit up, and he grinned widely.
“Then you must join my family and me for the holiday, starting with dinner the day after tomorrow. Our chef prepares the best goose, which I am certain you will love.”
Samuel pondered only for a moment.
“I do enjoy a well-prepared goose. Would I not be imposing on your family’s celebration?”
Lord Timothy waved a hand, dismissing his objection.
“Of course not. They are looking forward to meeting you.”
Samuel shifted in his chair and rested his hand against his cheek.
“You have not consulted them, have you?”
“I have, but I may have been vague when they inquired of your identity.”
“Would the rumors of my supposed indiscretions and antics have anything to do with your vagueness?”
“My apologies, Yarmouth. It is not that I am ashamed of you, nor do I believe those rumors for a moment, but you must understand something. My mother’s adamance on the matter of keeping our family reputation as stainless as possible is very strong. My father, on the other hand, will welcome you with open arms since I have spoken of you to him many times, and although he has not met you, he already thinks highly of you.”
Samuel sighed.
“That is certainly a relief. I would not wish to upset your mother or any member of your family. And I do not wish them to be upset with you either.”
“Do not fret, old friend. I will explain the situation to my parents first thing on the morrow. My father is very understanding, and I will make it clear that the rumors of you are not true.”
“You are a good friend, Colborne.”
