Page 47 of A Duke's Unwanted Bride
“Will this convince them of my affection?” he murmured.
An unreadable look flitted across Adele’s face. “I am sure it will.”
He was still holding her hand as he climbed into the carriage after her. As soon as the door was shut, he let it go and forced his hand into his lap. He could feel the softness of her fingers against his.
“I think that went as well as can be expected.” Warner leaned back in the carriage.
Adele nodded. “You put on quite the performance.”
“As did you.” He gave her a bow. “Duchess.”
“That is so strange. I had only just gotten used to being a marchioness.” She gave a small shudder.
“Then you will have to practice; after all, you are my duchess now.” He leaned his head against his hand.
“I suppose I am.” She met his gaze, her lips parting slightly.
“And it is time for us to begin the journey home.” He banged on the side of the carriage, and it rolled into motion. “I am sure both of us will be glad to drop the pretence.”
Adele nodded.Warner was not sure, but he thought that she looked disappointed. He could not tell if that unnerved him more or if it was the way his heart sunk at his own words.
Seventeen
“Your room, Your Graces.” The inn keeper bowed low as he held open the door.
Adele swallowed, trying to ignore the prickle of agitation spreading through her. She forced herself not to shudder as she walked into the room, hoping that the smile on her face looked genuine.
As Scarfield castle was three day’s journey from London, they had initially planned to stop at the house of one of Warner’s family friend’s estates, but a tree had fallen across the road, and they had been forced to stop off at an inn. To keep up appearances, they had only taken a single room.
“I have had one of the girls send up a bottle of wine for you and some glasses. I expect the two of you will wish for some privacy.” Mr. Tilney gestured to the objects in the corner of the room as they followed him inside.
Adele felt her cheeks flush scarlet and deliberately did not look at her husband, grateful that he appeared to be distracted looking around the room. “That was considerate of you, Mr. Tilney.”
“It is not often we have a duke and his duchess grace us with their presence.” Mr. Tilney shifted from foot to foot, wringing his hands as his eyes followed Warner, who had strode towards the decanter of wine and was inspecting it. “I trust dinner was to your liking?”
“It was perfect, thank you.” Adele smiled at the innkeeper. “The guinea fowl was some of the best I have ever eaten.”
Mr. Tilney beamed at her. “How wonderful. And of course, I will ensure the private room is set aside for your use tomorrow morning… Unless you would prefer for me to have your breakfast sent up here; it would be no trouble!”
Adele had been about to say that he need not bother with the private room — she hardly minded eating in the common room — but the Duke replied before she could say anything. “The private room would be best. We have a long journey ahead of us, and I would like to be on the road as soon as possible.”
“Of course, Your Grace. I understand. I shall have the kitchens arrange some food for your travels — some apples, cured meats, and such.”
“Thank you.” Adele smiled at the man.
“I shall see that it is arranged. If there is anything else you need, Your Graces, please, do not hesitate to ask.” Mr. Tilney looked between Warner and Adele.
“Thank you, you may leave us, Mr. Tilney.” Warner inclined his head towards the man who swept into a low bow.
“I wish you both a pleasant evening.” The innkeeper shut the door.
Adele swallowed, looking around the room, her eyes skirting over the chaise by the fire and landing on the bed. Her gaze met Warner’s, and her mouth went dry.
“Alone at last.” He massaged a crick in his neck.
“I hope you’re not getting any ideas, Warner.” Adele meant it to sound teasing, but her voice came out oddly breathless.
He arched an eyebrow at her. “I simply meant we no longer need to keep up the pretence. We are alone.”
