Page 27

“Right away, Your Grace,” Worthington nodded and left.

Hector walked into the house as his thoughts wandered to Juliet.

Despite his demand that they lead separate lives, he did not want to cause her any discomfort. The sole purpose of their marriage had been to give her a better life. He considered Juliet’s suggestion that they bridge the gap between them but shook his head in frustration, unsure of how to accomplish it.

Once in his study, Hector sat down behind his desk, hoping the meeting would not take up too much of his time. Shortly thereafter, Worthington knocked and announced, “I have Mr. Aiden with me, Your Grace,” as he opened the door.

Hector nodded, and the butler walked in with a tray of coffee, followed closely by Colin Aiden.

“Good morning, Your Grace,” Mr. Aiden greeted, sitting opposite him.

Hector offered a faint smile. “Morning, Mr. Aiden. I would like you to look into some estates for me. I’ll have Herbert draft up the details, and you can take it up.”

“That won’t be a problem, Your Grace,” Mr. Aiden smiled. “I have some favors to ask of you.”

“This isn’t a two-way trade,” Hector replied with a cold stare.

The man shook his head. “No, Your Grace, I wouldn’t callously throw away this benevolence you’ve generously extended…”

“Out with it, man,” Hector cut him off.

The solicitor opened his briefcase and pulled out several documents. “My clients need some halls to host their big event. I’ve been asked to approach you and get a date.”

Hector scoffed, taking a sip of his coffee. “This isn’t how business is done.”

“I know it’s utterly forward of me, but there was no other way. I believe luck was on my side."

Hector admired ambitious men but didn’t like when people stepped beyond their boundaries. “If you go through the right channel, we will talk.”

“Thank you, Your Grace. I’ll take that bit of advice.” The man pushed back on his seat and bowed. “Enjoy your day, Your Grace.”

“I’d like you to work with Herbert,” Hector said, and the man halted.

Mr. Aiden hesitated for a moment before speaking. Hector was aware the two were not on good terms, but he was also aware that whatever Mr. Aiden needed was important to him, so he wouldn’t risk disappointing the Duke.

“I suppose. An arranged meeting would suffice.”

Hector’s grip on his coffee cup tightened slightly. “I’ll arrange that.”

As the solicitor left, Hector finished his coffee and stepped out of the study.

The butler hurried forward. “You received another visitor whilst you were occupied, Your Grace.”

Hector frowned. “Who was it that called so early?”

“The neighboring lord wanted to congratulate you and the Duchess,” replied the butler. “I took the gifts and politely informed him that you weren’t receiving visitors yet.”

“Excellent,” Hector said, patting his butler’s back. He was glad to have old staff who knew the rules. “Where’s my wife?”

“In the garden, Your Grace.”

Hector strode in the direction of the gardens, wondering what she was doing there.

He found Juliet bent over a clump of white and yellow lilies, her delicate frame showered in soft morning light. She looked up as he approached, a tentative smile on her lips.

“Good morning, Duchess,” he greeted, trying to keep his tone light.

“Is there anything you need from me, Your Grace?” she asked before returning her attention to the beautiful flowers.