Page 11 of The Undesirable Duke
“That’s probably why he is visiting London.”
“Was he not residing in London before the article?”
Lillian cocked her head to the side.
The two young ladies exchanged puzzled glances and shook their heads.
“He resides in the countryside most of the time, apparently.”
“Hiding away from thetonbecause of his shameful actions.”
Lillian was still puzzled.
“But why would he return to London?”
“You ask many questions.”
Lillian shrugged.
“My mother tells me that on numerous occasions.”
“Lillian, come here at once.”
Lillian cringed as her mother suddenly appeared beside her.
“Mother, I was merely inquiring-”
“That is quite enough. Proper young ladies such as yourselves should not be concerned with such gossip, especially not about disgraceful men.”
“Do you know the Duke of Yarmouth, my Lady?”
Lady Welsford’s eyes widened, and a vein began throbbing in her temple, which Lillian found rather odd. Did her mother know the Duke of Yarmouth? If she did, how did she know him?
“Men such as the Duke of Yarmouth give a bad name to their families and all people associated with them. Merely speaking his name taints your reputations, which is not what young ladies such as yourself need.”
Lady Welsford wrapped her hand around Lillian’s wrist and practically dragged her back to where Madame Periaux waited for them.
“Mother, you did not need to manhandle me so roughly,” Lillian complained as she rubbed her bruised arm.
“I will do whatever is required to keep your reputation as flawless as it needs to be, Lillian.”
The air was filled with tension inside the dress shop, and even the two young women Lillian had approached were silent.
“Mother, I was merely asking who they spoke of. You have never stopped me from listening to gossip before. Why are you so affected by the antics of the Duke of Yarmouth?”
Lady Welsford appeared even more angered by Lillian’s question, much to Lilian’s confusion. Her mother’s actions and overreaction seemed unnecessary and suspicious.
“Do not waste your breath on men of that kind. Your attention should be focused on finding a husband, or I shall do it for you. Now, allow Madame Periaux to continue adjusting your gown, Lillian.”
Lillian narrowed her eyes, staring at her mother, but did as she was told before her mother rang a fine peal over her. She felt embarrassed enough and did not need to feel any more humiliated. With colored cheeks, Lillian nodded and turned back to Madame Periaux, who appeared as uncomfortable as she was.
The seamstress smiled and turned to Lady Welsford.
“Perhaps some tea, my Lady?” she offered.
Lady Welsford sighed theatrically and pressed her hand to her forehead.
“That would be lovely. Thank you.”
