Page 32 of A Wicked Duke's Redemption
“I thought she might appreciate having some time to adjust,” Leo said.
“That would explain why you did not visit her on your wedding night,” Mrs. Gunderson said.
“I wondered when you would ask about that. I am surprised you did not ambush me already.”
“Yesterday, I was occupied with introducing Her Grace to the staff and with explaining everything to her,” Mrs. Gunderson said. “I also had to make several arrangements for her—wardrobe, cosmetics, jewelry, and the like.”
“I cannot imagine that she needs all of that.”
Mrs. Gunderson arched an eyebrow. “Would you have the Duchess of Farnham dressed like a common woman?”
“I simply see no need for such fineries in Essex.”
“And should you decide to travel away from Essex? Do you intend to leave her here forever?” Mrs. Gunderson asked impatiently. “Even if she is not quite an aristocrat, she is a duchess and should be dressed like one. She seemed a little anxious, but not opposed to everything I suggested.”
“So, she is talking to everyone except me,” Leo said dryly, “as expected.”
“She is not speaking to you? Precisely what do you mean?”
“She did not speak to me during the ride here. I left her alone today, so she could collect herself. However, she did not speak to me at dinner either. Not a single word left her lips, even when I tried to coax her into speaking to me.”
“Some hesitance is to be expected.”
Leo took a sip of brandy. “Some.”
“Have you told her that you were her dancing partner?” asked Mrs. Gunderson.
“No,” Leo replied. “I cannot see that improving the situation. I do not believe she recognized me, and I fear that would make the matter worse.”
“She liked you when you danced together.”
“She might like me considerably less after learning that I decided I must marry her at once based on a single meeting.”
Mrs. Gunderson looked doubtful.
“You have seen how badly things are between Violet and me,” Leo said. “I cannot afford to make them worse.”
Mrs. Gunderson swirled her glass, seemingly for something to do with her hands. “I have some advice for you, but I am not certain how you will take it.”
“Badly, if you are so hesitant to say it,” Leo replied. “I know that will not stop you, though.”
Mrs. Gunderson smiled. “You might try wooing her.”
Leo stared at her. “I do not think she would be receptive to my advances. She will not even speak to me.”
“Then, you must make greater efforts to be someone whom she wishes to converse with.”
“The purpose of wooing a woman is so that she will marry you,” Leo said. “Even if she detests me, Violet is already married to me.”
Mrs. Gunderson shook her head. “Nevertheless, she is a woman, and women like to be courted. They like to feel as if they are special and wanted, as if you are making an effort for them.”
“She should already feel special and wanted,” Leo muttered. “I made her a duchess.”
“You and I both know why she might have reservations,” Mrs. Gunderson said. “Even if it is unfair, that is the reality of the situation. You do not assuage those concerns by keeping her at a distance. You must show that you want to make her happy beyond the title and the safety of her family.”
“I have tried.”
“Have you?” Mrs. Gunderson asked. “What have you done? You cannot expect her to converse with you and desire your company if you have done nothing to show her that you are worthy of her time and attention. You spoke to her at the dance, did you not? You mentioned that she likes literature. Talk to her about what she loves.”
