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Hector’s tone remained firm. “There is no need to lighten the mood at my expense. If you have any more business matters to discuss, let us focus on those.”

Somerton raised his hands in a placating gesture. “Of course, of course. I did not mean to pry. But it is as I said earlier, when confronted by such a unique situation, one cannot help but be curious.”

Hector’s gaze was resolute. “Curiosity is only well and good when one does not cross any lines in the process of expressing it. We are not friends or relatives that you should feel owed any sort of explanations or answers about my affairs. Know your place, Somerton, or I shall feel obliged to teach it to you.”

Somerton, recognizing that Hector was serious, nodded and changed the subject. “Very well. Let us discuss our next steps for the upcoming project. We shall need to finalize the financial projections.”

“That can be arranged. I will ask Herbert to see to it,” Hector interrupted.

As the conversation returned to business, Hector weighed Somerton carefully. He didn’t see himself entering this estate deal with him and would rather have worked with Marcus. Furthermore, Somerton’s odd and persistent interest in his marriage had left a coppery aftertaste of irritation in his mouth.

It was obvious that he had been privy to some details of Hector’s libertine ways. On reflection, Hector was not surprised that Somerton wondered how he would navigate a marriage to someone who had clearly lived a purer life than he had.

Hector’s thoughts drifted to Juliet. She was nothing like the women of his past. The difference between his past and present was as clear as the rich brandy he sipped.

I wonder how she is faring with Lady Anne.

As the meeting ended, Hector dismissed Somerton with a curt nod. “Thank you for the drink. I believe we have covered everything.”

Somerton offered a final smile though it didn’t reach his eyes. “My pleasure, Your Grace. Until next time.”

Again, the ladies’ laughter drifted into the room, and Hector became interested in what had put his wife in such a high mood.

He rose from his seat and strode out without another word to his guest.

CHAPTER 15

“Shall we begin the tour?” Juliet asked as soon as the door shut behind them.

“Lead the way, Your Grace,” Anne Cavendish replied with an eager smile.

Juliet nodded, glancing around to decide where she should start. Eventually, she decided on a direction and gestured down a hallway.

“This way.”

“I have always desired to see the view from Islington Hall,” Anne remarked as they strolled through the corridor. “It is much lauded; even my brother cannot refrain from extolling its beauty.”

Juliet smiled though inwardly she felt a bit of unease. She shuddered as she recalled how affected she had been by the highview from the balcony. Even though she wanted to be the perfect host and show every angle, the upper chamber was off-limits.

“Indeed, Islington Hall is renowned for its vistas,” she replied, keeping her tone light. “I confess, I have yet to see it all myself.”

Anne turned to her with surprise. “Truly? I would have thought the Duchess of Islington would have seen it all by now.”

Juliet hesitated, noting the subtle implication behind Anne’s words. “There has been much to occupy my time here, I suppose,” she said, hoping to steer the conversation away from any perceived shortcomings.

Anne nodded though Juliet wondered if the young woman saw through her carefully chosen words. She was all too aware of the whispers that followed her. She was the convent-raised Duchess, still finding her footing in a world that seemed determined to judge her at every turn.

“Was it too early to call on you? My brother…”

“Nonsense,” dismissed Juliet with a warm smile. “The Duke holds him in high regard and by extension, you. It is never too early to call upon friends.”

Anne sighed softly, “Thank you, Your Grace. I tried to dissuade him, but he was resolute in his decision to visit.”

Juliet had nothing to say to that. She simply nodded and continued the tour.

As they walked, Juliet pointed out the various rooms.

“This is the ballroom,” she said, pausing by the double doors which she gently pushed open to reveal a vast space with lofty ceilings and crystal chandeliers. The walls were sparkling white and adorned with colorful artwork.