Page 31 of A Fake Courtship with the Duke
But in a display of compliance and understanding that Anne was beginning to become familiar with, her mother shared a look with Elizabeth as the two of them nodded.
“I bought that dress for a special tea party,” she said. “But Donna canceled as she was ill. I do find that dress rather vibrant and cheery.”
The viscountess nodded, as if she had never had anything negative to say about Anne making such selections for herself.
“I agree, darling,” she said. “I believe Anne will look very lovely in this dress.”
Anne smiled, feeling as though she had won a small victory. Even if it was only because of the Duke that she was beginning to earn more respect and consideration from her family, she would enjoy it while it lasted.
That evening, back in the sanctuary of her bedchambers, Anne gazed at the selected gown, shimmering under the soft glow of candlelight. It maintained its appeal with her, so much so that she wished she had had the opportunity to purchase such a dress for herself. She supposed that Elizabeth’s husband was more lenient on her than their parents were on Anne. She sighed wistfully, thinking about how much more freedom Elizabeth must have been allowed.
But as beautiful and freeing as the dress was, the weight of the farce it represented was heavy on Anne. There was much to concern her about what the Duke and she were doing. And there was also the way she felt when she was around him. He was more handsome than any man with whom she had ever interacted within the ton. And he was far more charming and witty. She knew what they had was fake. But she couldn’t stop thinking about how part of her wished that it wasn’t. And then, there was how her family didn’t think she deserved someone like a duke. She thought the two of them got along perfectly well. But what if he could barely tolerate her, like her own family?
Just as the overwhelming emotions threatened to consume her, Mischief leaped onto the bed. He nudged her with his head, kneading her stomach with clawless paws as she nuzzled her nose against his whiskers. She giggled as the long strands tickled her face. Once he was satisfied that her mood had improved, he settled into bed beside her, purring contentedly. The rhythm of his purrs provided a comfort that words could not express.
Anne smiled softly and pulled Mischief closer, her heart finding solace in their shared moment. As they prepared for sleep, the weight of societal expectations seemed a little lighter. At least for that moment.
Chapter Sixteen
The following morning, Richard entered the drawing room with a heart strangerly lighter than it had been in ages. He had been reluctant to invite Miss Huxley to promenade hour with him. But as soon as he saw how lovely she looked disheveled after a clear disagreement with her family, and he heard how beautifully she played the pianoforte, he had found himself thrilled that he had the opportunity.
He had truly never heard better pianoforte playing in all of London, not unless it was at a performance with professional musicians. And even many such professionals paled in comparison to Miss Huxley’s talent.
When he entered the drawing room for breakfast, he found his mother already there. He smiled and bowed to her, but he noticed when she didn’t acknowledge his entry that she was deeply engrossed in a letter she was holding. He shook his head, quietly taking his seat, glad for the chance to stay in his thoughts a little longer.
He had dressed in his finest, dark orange suit. It was one that his mother wasn’t particularly fond of. But he thought the color orange was a nice color. It reminded him of sunrises and sunsets. And of Miss Huxley’s mischievous Mischief. And it had embroidery that reminded Richard of waves on the ocean. It was, in fact, one of his favorite suits. And only a little of the reason was because his mother disliked it.
“Richard,” his mother said, finally pulling him from the comfort of his thoughts.
He looked at the dowager duchess with a pleasant smile.
“Yes, Mother?” he asked.
She looked up at him over the top of the letter, a small smile playing on her lips.
“I just wanted to let you know that we will be joining the Westbrook’s for dinner this evening,” she said, sounding rather pleased with herself.
Richard's jaw clenched involuntarily, and his eyes narrowed. He supposed he should have expected this particular conversation. Unfortunately for the dowager, she would not have her way this time.
“Mother,” he said, his tone courteous but firm. “You must have forgotten that I already committed to accompanying Anne and Susan to the promenade this evening. Per Susan’s request, of course.” He bit his tongue, choosing not to add anything about his plans with Miss Huxley right then. He knew it was a conversation he would eventually need to have. But he wanted to keep his mood as pleasant as possible for the day.
His mother’s discontent was palpable as she scrutinized her son. Her sharp gaze bore into him, her lips pressed into a thin line.
“Richard,” she said, her voice lowering as though the ton might hear their conversation from the privacy of their own home. “I do wonder at your recent actions. It seems like you think very little of the efforts that Lady Eleanor has been making to capture your attention.”
Richard refused to respond about his obvious contempt for the young lady. Instead, he simply smiled at his mother.
“I will be sure to attend dinner with them,” he said.
His mother gave him a dubious look, her nose wrinkling as though she had just smelled something terrible.
“See to it that you do,” she said. You know the significance of this dinner. Our family's reputation is at stake.”
Before Richard could offer a retort, his mother rose and sashayed out of the room, leaving him with the lingering air ofher cold distaste. He exhaled slowly, his shoulders tense. Why could she not understand how little he wanted to do with Lady Eleanor?
When Susan entered the room, her footsteps were so light that he didn’t notice her until he looked up. She had a warm smile, and she embraced Richard as she kissed his cheek.
“Where’s Mother?” she asked, keeping her voice low.
