Page 61 of Beneath the Beastly Duke's Mask
“Arabella,” he said.
She slowly raised her head. “Yes, Your Grace?”
“None of this is your fault,” he said. “I do not blame you for what has happened. People have far too much time on their hands to interfere in the lives of others. It's pitiful. Needing to ruin someone's life is a clear indication that the person is lacking in their life. This rumor is a reflection of their heart, not your character.”
"Thank you, Your Grace," said Arabella. She looked and sounded relieved. "I am grateful that you believe me. I know things have been challenging, and I have indirectly caused people to talk about you. That is the last thing I wanted for you."
Arabella was always thinking of him, even when a situation was not in her favor. It was no wonder that he loved her. She was the first person in many years to treat him like he was just like any other man, rather than a scarred beast.
“I do not mind what people say about me,” he said. “I did before, but not anymore. People have been saying many things about me for years. To have them talk about me again makes no difference to me.”
“That doesn't make it right,” she argued. “I hate that this rumor has only brought stress to your life. It has interfered with your peace.”
It was on the tip of his tongue to tell her she was his peace, but he wasn't ready to reveal his feelings yet. He was going to, but not yet.
“I still have peace, Arabella,” he told her. “It's not something people can easily take away from me—I won't let them.”
Henry never really had to fight for anything in particular. He had kept to himself, only speaking to his servants when needed. In hindsight, he had probably only fueled the rumors surrounding him. However, at the time, Henry believed it was best. Now, he was questioning everything because he was no longer alone. It was amazing what one understanding and encouraging person could do in a person's life.
"I am relieved," Arabella said, pulling him from his thoughts. "It is a terrible thing to lose one's peace. I'm glad this matter has not disturbed that."
“What about you?” Henry asked. “How have you fared?”
Henry already knew, but he wanted Arabella to know that she could also talk to him. He had seen how withdrawn she had become and noticed she didn't smile as much anymore. She probably thought everyone was talking about her and likely believed she wanted to seduce him.
Perhaps it was time he sat down with his servants and spoke to them about the rumor. Henry had hoped they would not judge Arabella because she had proven herself to be loyal, kind, and good to everyone. However, he had underestimated people's love of a good rumor.
“I'm fine, Your Grace,” she said, lowering her eyes.
“I know that is a lie,” he said, saddened that she wouldn't be honest with him. However, he also understood her hesitance.
"I—" she began but was soon interrupted when Jane suddenly burst into the room.
"Arabella!" she cried. She came to an abrupt stop when she saw him, quickly curtsying. "Your Grace! I beg your pardon for barging into the room like this."
“That is fine, Jane,” he replied. “You must have your reasons. Is there something wrong?”
"Actually, it's good that you're here as well, Your Grace," said Jane. She pulled a piece of paper from her pocket. "This letter fell out of Mirabel's pocket earlier today. She didn't notice it, so I picked it up to return it, but a few words caught my eye. It's a letter from Lord Kersey."
Henry stood up. “My cousin?” he asked. “Let me see.”
Jane passed the letter to him. “This letter proves that Mirabel and Lord Kersey conspired against you and Arabella. Lord Kersey started the rumor, which was why people were so ready to believe them. What better source than the family of the duke?”
This was precisely the evidence he was looking for. Henry quickly read the contents of the letter, relieved that they had finally uncovered the culprits.
“Thank you, Jane,” said Henry. “This is excellent. I have been looking for something like this for some time. Would you excuse me? I must speak with Truman.”
Henry walked away, but not before turning back to look at Arabella. She appeared overwhelmed and near tears. He wanted to stay and comfort her, but Jane was also present. The best he could do was speak to Truman and ensure justice was served. He called for his valet on his way to his study, not surprised when Truman appeared by his side seconds later.
“Yes, Your Grace?” he asked.
"Evidence has finally surfaced," Henry said excitedly. "This proves the viscount started the rumors, and Mirabel was part of it. I want you to use this evidence to deal with the matter swiftly and finally put an end to these rumors. I will personally fire Mirabel, but I shall speak to Mrs. Cooper first and let her know what is happening.”
“Yes, Your Grace,” said Truman, taking the letter from him. “I believe Providence has smiled upon you, Your Grace. We were looking for evidence, and now it has appeared under your very roof.”
“It's almost too good to be true,” said Henry. “Mirabel must have been keeping it on her person to avoid anyone finding it among her belongings. She certainly didn't anticipate it falling out of her pocket.”
“No, Your Grace,” said Truman.
