Page 74 of The Duke's Impossible Deal
His words made the tension return to her once more. It was as though she could already feel the ton’s eyes on her, watching her, judging her. “I suppose it will be nice.”
She tried to sound more excited, but her thoughts kept drifting to her wardrobe. Though she had some lovely dresses, she did not have anything suitable for a ball, aside from her wedding gown. The ton would expect her to look the part of a duchess.
Her mind turned back to the lavender dress at Mrs. Green’s.
“You seem hesitant. If you would rather not go, I can send our apologies,” Tobias offered.
“No, it is not that. I… I am not sure I have anything to wear.” Rowen looked down at the table, her cheeks reddening. “Well, I do, but…”
When she looked up, Tobias was staring at her with puzzled amusement. His lips curled into a half smile as he arched an eyebrow.
“But what?” he asked.
“It seems silly. There is this dress that I cannot seem to stop thinking about. I saw it when we were getting clothes for thewedding, and… Well, it is beautiful, and I could have the design altered for me, and perhaps choose a different fabric, but… It seems a rather silly expense.” Rowen shrugged. “Forget I said anything. I can wear one of my other dresses.”
“And how often have you thought of this dress since our wedding?” Tobias asked.
“Not very often.” She tried to keep her tone neutral, but was clearly unsuccessful.
“That is the worst lie you have ever told me.” Tobias laughed and beckoned one of the footmen over. “Thomas, prepare the carriage.”
“Of course, Your Grace.” The footman swept into a low bow.
Rowen frowned. “What are you doing?”
“We are going shopping.” Tobias held out his arm to her. “I am not about to let you wear anything you feel less than fabulous in. Besides, this dress must be quite something to have held your mind for so long. And I find myself rather curious to see you in it.”
Rowen saw his eyes darken as his lips quirked up. “But it will be frightfully expensive.”
“Duchess, when are you going to learn? There is no expense too great to incur if it is what your heart desires.” He leaned towardsher, his eyes full of mischief. “Now, I suggest you get changed. The carriage driver is rather efficient, and I intend to make the most of the daylight.”
He grinned as he walked out of the room and called over his shoulder, “There is no point in draping you in finery if I cannot see how you look in it.”
An hour later, they were standing in Mrs. Green’s shop. An apprentice stood beside them with several bolts of fabric, a book of designs, and several hats.
Rowen was acutely aware of the eyes of the other clients on them.
I can hardly blame them. I feel as though we are buying nearly the entire store!
She shifted beneath their gaze.
From the moment they had walked into the modiste’s, if Rowen’s gaze had lingered on a fabric for more than a few seconds, Tobias would demand it be put aside. If her finger had lingered on a design page, he would have an apprentice whisk her away to be measured.
“Your Graces, it’s an honor and a pleasure as always.” Mrs. Green bobbed a curtsey before approaching them. “You will forgive me for not seeing to you sooner; the Countess of Codlington took up rather more of my time than I had expected.”
Tobias inclined his head towards her and gave his most charming smile. “My wife speaks most highly of you, Mrs. Green, and her wedding dress is truly a testament to your skill.”
“Your Grace is too kind.” Mrs. Green’s smile widened.
“I am simply a keen observer of beauty.” Tobias looked around the shop, and Rowen knew he was taking in the curious faces.
Again, she shifted uncomfortably.
What will they think of me? Do they think me vain?
She opened her mouth, ready to suggest they leave. After all, she had more than enough. But the words died in her throat as Tobias’s green eyes found hers.
“Mrs. Green, I am a rather private man, and I do not relish the thought of sharing the loveliness that is my wife with the whole ton. At least, not until they see the rapturous product that is the culmination of your artistry and my wife’s beauty.” His eyes left hers, and she knew her cheeks were so red they would make a strawberry seem pale.
