Page 17 of The Duke's Unclaimed Bride
In less than a week, my whole life will change.
“I… I see,” was the only response she could muster. “Thank you.”
“Goodnight, Lady Nealton.” The Duke bowed, then turned around and strode out of the parlor.
And with a click of the front door, he was gone.
“Are you sure about this?” Ava asked, snapping Edith out of her reverie.
“As sure as I can be.”
Ava said nothing more, busying herself with adjusting Edith’s dress.
It was far finer than the dress Edith had worn for her first wedding, a practical lilac gown chosen for its reusability at future balls. This dress was different and was meant only for today. It was soft and white, the delicate fabric clinging to her lithe frame in a graceful but eye-catching way. The flower embroidery on its overlay lent it an ethereal air.
Just more tangible proof of what a title and fortune can secure.
“We know almost nothing about him,” Ava said as she stood next to her and continued primping her before the mirror. Her pregnancy showed slightly under her dress.
“You really must not worry about me in your condition, dear Ava,” Edith said softly.
“It is your condition over which I would worry. This duke has been a recluse for years,” Ava pointed out.
“Many sane people withdraw from the ton,” Edith argued.
“I know, but he seems rather…” Ava paused, choosing her words carefully. “Intimidating?”
“Some could say that your husband is an intimidating man,” Edith teased.
“I know,” Ava sighed. “But the Duke of Alderbourne…” she trailed off.
Edith could see the concern in her eyes.
“What are you worried about?” she asked. “I mean, specifically.”
Ava hesitated, then turned to look into Edith’s eyes. “We know nothing about him. He’s been a recluse ever since the ton began spreading rumors that he is a monster, which he has never denied. I am just concerned for your safety, and for Tilly’s.”
“I do not think him a violent man,” Edith replied softly. “He is cryptic, mysterious certainly…” she trailed off. She swallowed hard, recalling how his steady, unflinching stare seemed to penetrate her to the core. “Perhaps… alluring in his own way. I dare say his scars tell an interesting story.”
“An interesting story? Edith, those scars are what have earned him his reputation as a beast!”
“And yet he has not once behaved cruelly toward me. I recognize that he is not the most genteel of men, but he defended me and Tilly without hesitation. For a man of his station, that speaks of good character,” Edith replied.
Ava’s eyes were wide with surprise. “Edith… I am glad you think so highly of him. I am just worried. I have watched you suffer through one loveless marriage. I do not wish to watch you suffer through another.”
Edith softened as she remembered her first marriage. It wasn’t a cruel marriage. Not in the way many ladies of the ton often had cause to worry about. It had simply been empty and terribly lonely.
“I know. You are a good friend, Ava darling,” she said affectionately.
“I do my best for you.” Ava smiled. “And just know, should you ever encounter difficulties or need to leave your marriage, Christian and I will always be there to help you. You can ask anything of us,” she assured, holding Edith’s hand gently.
“You are too good to me,” Edith said, pulling her friend into a hug. “But this is for the best.”
The tender moment dissolved under the giggles of children running through the halls and bursting into the room. Bounding through the door were Tilly and Luke, Ava’s oldest son, followed closely by little Anthony, Ava’s youngest.
“Mama!” the toddler giggled as he wobbled over to Ava.
“The baby talks already!” Tilly laughed.
