Page 19 of Unraveled By the Duke
“I was thinking that myself,” Celia admitted. “I did not expect to be driven out by a mob waving pitchforks, but I thought the reception would be cooler. Perhaps the scandal is not as bad as we thought?”
Alexander pursed his lips. “That would be contrary to all expectations of how the ton functions. I think it is merely thatthe gossip has not caught on yet. It will spread with the right gust of wind, like wildfire.”
They turned onto another avenue, passing beneath a ceremonial arch, brightly painted and fancifully carved. Trees marched in ranks on either side, planted in precise squares.
“Then we must be ready to fight that fire when it ignites. It has been four days since the Larcher ball. I imagine the gossips will be hard at work,” Celia said.
“And any history either of us has will be examined in great detail and embellished,” Alexander sighed. “I think it would be preferable all round to live as a hermit in some lonely place. The Scottish Highlands, perhaps.”
“There are islands off the west coast of Scotland that are deserted, so I understand,” Celia said.
“Sounds like heaven,” Alexander replied.
He stiffened, realizing that he was not only engaging in conversation with Celia but also agreeing with her.
“We have something in common,” Celia noted, looking up at him.
Alexander grunted and did not reply.
“Where is your dratted family?” he demanded, looking everywhere but at her.
“Let us look down there. Papa is likely to seek out seating where he can have tea and be at ease.”
Alexander quickened his pace in the direction Celia had indicated.
A square of trees surrounded an open grassy space filled with white, wrought iron tables and chairs. A brick building set against a tall wall produced a string of black-and-white-clad servants bearing trays of tea and food out to people seated at the tables.
He picked out Cornelius Frid easily, seated on the periphery of the tables and chairs. His wife was there with him, as was a young girl whom he assumed to be another daughter.
As he approached, Lavinia appeared, carrying a cup of tea on a saucer, and took a seat next to Lady Scovell. She looked at Alexander, smiling sweetly and sipping from her cup.
Lord and Lady Scovell looked at him and Celia with hard eyes. Cornelius’s lip even curled into the beginnings of a snarl before his wife patted his hand.
“Lord and Lady Scovell. Good morning to you. May we join you?” Alexander asked.
Cornelius glanced at Lavinia. “We have an unexpected guest, but she is welcome, as far as I am concerned. She may not welcome you, though, Your Grace. She may decide.”
Lavinia put her teacup down on the table and took a deep breath as though steeling herself for a trial of endurance. “Yes, My Lord. I think I am strong enough. It has been just a scant few days, but?—”
“But then we were only engaged for a scant few weeks, were we not?” Alexander cut in, pulling out a chair for Celia and then seating himself next to her. He crossed his legs, folding his hands over them.
Cornelius visibly paled with anger at the insolent tone. Again, his wife calmed him with a squeeze of her hand. The other young woman patted Lavinia’s hand and received a grateful smile.
Alexander could sense Celia tensing beside him.
They are either completely taken by Lavinia or they are in league with her, which explains their allegiance to her. Which is it?
“I wish to discuss a delicate matter. This is not the ideal setting,” he announced.
“Nevertheless, it is where I have chosen. I think from now on, your nefarious business should be viewed in the cold light of day, not hidden away,” Cornelius said.
Alexander shifted in his seat, nodding slowly. “Very well. I have proposed in writing that I marry your daughter. I’m sure you are well aware of the rumors that our unfortunate circumstances have triggered. This seems the best way to neutralize them and spare the reputations of both our families. What do you say?”
“Celia is willing?” Edna asked.
“I am, Mama. I think it is the only way,” Celia replied.
“She is over the age of twenty-one. You do not need my permission,” Cornelius pointed out.
