Page 74 of Beneath the Beastly Duke's Mask
Henry informed his valet and the other servants the night before that Florian would become the new duke and his master. Naturally, everyone had been shocked, but no one had asked any questions. Henry didn't have it in him to tell them what had happened, but the truth would likely be revealed soon enough.
Everyone would wonder why the duke's son was giving up the dukedom to a relative—it was unheard of. Henry wanted to be far away once the truth was known. He didn't want to hear people taunt or look at him like he was nothing. He already felt terrible. Henry had never taken advantage of what the old duke had given him, and he had always been generous. He never abused his power or thought he was better than anyone else.
However, people would forget that and create stories about him just to fuel their need for scandal. Henry could have gotten through it all with Arabella by his side, but he had no right to ask that of her. He couldn't provide for her or give her the stability she needed.
Arabella would likely argue with him and insist she wanted to be with him regardless of what had happened, but he was afraid she might grow to resent him one day. Henry wouldn't be able to bear that. He might as well be dead.
“If it pleases you, Your Grace, I would like to continue serving you,” said Truman, interrupting Henry's thoughts as he laid his attire on the bed.
Henry smiled sadly. “I'm afraid that is impossible, Truman,” he said. “I shall speak to Lord Grafton about possibly having you as his valet as well. There is nothing wrong with having two valets, especially when you have many duties. I'll ensure you have a job—do not fear being jobless.”
Truman nodded. “Thank you, Your Grace,” he said. “Although I would still rather serve you.”
Henry bowed his head. “I will no longer be a lord, Truman.”
“But you're the duke's son,” the young man argued. “I do not understand why you've decided to give the dukedom to another; surely you will not give upeverything.”
Henry looked at him, surprised that he had argued. Usually, Truman simply served and didn't ask questions unless it was about serving him. Henry fought within himself to reveal what was really going on. He didn't want to leave his servants confused, but he also didn't want to see the look in their eyes once he told them who he really was.
“Please, do not ask me any questions, Truman,” said Henry, rising to his feet. “I would just like to get through the day. However, I promise that all will be revealed soon enough. Just give it time.”
Truman lowered his head, hiding his eyes. “Yes, Your Grace,” he replied. “Forgive me for pressing the matter. Shall we get dressed?”
“Yes, of course,” Henry replied.
He allowed Truman to dress him, almost laughing to himself about it. This would be one of the last times he would have someone else dress him. Henry was capable of doing it himself, but for the sake of acting the part, he had to allow the valet to do it. He had no trouble doing things for himself and looked forward to having more privacy, but he undoubtedly would miss things like having his meals cooked, laundry done, and house cleaned.
It provided him with more free time to do other things he enjoyed, but he was confident he could grow accustomed to doing everything for himself. The only thing he knew he could never live without was Arabella, though he would have to.
Henry had been thinking about what to do about their relationship that had barely begun, and he could only see one solution to the mess. He couldn't drag Arabella down with him—it wouldn't be fair. However, telling her so would only prompt her to follow him. Henry knew her well enough to know she would do anything for him.
The only thing he could do was leave without telling her. Henry would help Florian settle into the house and then disappear. Florian had asked him to stay and become the estate steward, but he didn't believe he could. It wasn't about pride—he just didn't want to deal with people talking about him.
“This estate truly is lovely,” said Florian at breakfast later that morning. “I took another walk around the grounds earlier. The more I see it, the more beautiful it becomes. You really have taken wonderful care of it.”
“The servants have taken good care of it,” Henry corrected.
“Yes, but under your leadership,” said Florian. “Without good leadership, people scatter. Have you thought about my offer to run the estate? I cannot think of anyone better.”
"I think I'd prefer to start anew elsewhere, Lord Grafton," Henry replied, breaking the yolk of his egg. He dipped a piece of toast in it but couldn't bring himself to eat it.
“That is rather disappointing,” said Florian, cutting a piece of pound cake. “This really is both buttery and delicious. Compliments to the cook.”
Henry nodded. “She is wonderful.”
He looked up when Arabella entered the room carrying a plate of sausages. "My apologies, Your Grace," she said. "We forgot to add these to the table."
“Thank you, Arabella,” said Florian before Henry could say a word.
Henry glanced at him, observing the way he watched Arabella. Florian was interested in her—that much was evident. He didn't blame the man. Arabella had an air about her that immediately attracted people to her. He had been drawn to her from the very beginning as well.
“Would you mind making me a cup of tea, Arabella?” Florian asked as she placed the sausages within reach.
“Of course, my lord,” she replied, taking a teacup, and adding sugar before the tea.
She always said it was better that way because it dissolved the sugar quicker. She added a little milk and handed it to Florian, smiling when he took a sip and complimented her on a perfect cup. For some reason, Henry wasn't pleased to know that Arabella knew how to make Florian's tea.
"Your Grace, may I also make you a cup of tea?" Arabella asked.
