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“She has done nothing wrong!” Hector snapped angrily.

“But they do not know that. All they know is her origin and your reputation. From their perspective, you are not an ideal match that would set a good example for any sort of partnership, business or marriage. From what I gather, you have recently joined in on a large deal that is currently in quite a volatile state. With the Ton’s rising suspicion and your seemingly callous attitude, that deal might be at risk. It looks like while a storm brews, placing all that you have worked for in jeopardy, you are very content, relishing in the company of your wife.” Somerton shrugged.

It pained Hector to admit it, but the man had a good point.

With his latest investments in such a fragile state, it wouldn’t take much for the opportunity to be lost. If that happened, his estate would be in trouble.

Hector wasn’t merely worried for his own well-being but was also greatly concerned for Juliet’s. Lydia had asked him to marry her in a bid to give her dear friend a better life than she had, and he wanted to fulfill all her needs.

To do that, he really had to take his work much more seriously.

“This is ridiculous,” Hector exhaled slowly. “Well, if we must entertain this circus, I shall go out and convince them otherwise. Perhaps, with my personal involvement, they shall realize that their opinions and impressions are misconstrued.”

The Earl nodded. “That is a fine idea, Your Grace. I fear I must warn you, though, it will not be an easy task, but if you manage to sway many in your favor, you can likely turn the situation around to your benefit. Perhaps even gain some support along the way.”

“I have no need for pointless lackeys. What I require is peace of mind to run my business as I see fit and for the subject of my marriage to be the concern of only myself and my wife,” Hector stated with a wave of a hand.

Somerton had an odd expression on his face, something between a grimace and a sneer, but before Hector could decipher what it meant, the man was once again smiling brightly.

“Of course, Your Grace,” he said with a strangely empty tone. “I am sure it will all work out eventually.”

“Do you have to leave?”

At the sound of Juliet’s dismayed voice, it took Hector all of his resistance not to cancel his plans for the day.

“I am afraid so,” he said regretfully, taking his eyes off the servants placing his luggage into the carriage. “There is much to be done, and I must be away from Islington Hall to accomplish at least half of my deeds.”

He did his best not to make matters sound too serious, not wanting to alarm her or make her feel as though any of it was her fault, regardless of what the public opinion was.

Hector would fix it all and give her the life she truly deserved.

Juliet sighed, looking as though she was desperately fighting the urge to pout.

“If you insist…then I shall patiently await your return.”

Hector faced her and placed a soft kiss on the back of her hand, feeling proud as a dark blush spread across her cheeks.

“That is all I ask, darling. I shall return as soon as I am able. If you need anything, anything at all, the staff is at your beck and call. Do not worry, Juliet.”

The Duchess nodded, putting on a lighter expression.

“Safe travels,” she wished him softly, stepping closer. “I shall be right here, eagerly awaiting your return.”

Hector smiled at her gently for a moment then leaned in suddenly, catching her off-guard with a kiss.

“Hector!” she hissed, shyly glancing around, praying none of the staff members were looking at them.

Hector grinned mischievously and tugged her closer, pressing a kiss to her forehead. It was strange how worried he suddenly felt; it made him reluctant to leave, but he knew his responsibilities demanded his attention and left him with no other choice.

“Be well, Juliet,” he whispered to her softly.

Juliet nodded, mumbling back, “And you as well.”

As they pulled back, the coachman came forward and advised, “We are ready to depart, Your Grace.”

Hector nodded in acknowledgment, stepping away from Juliet. He turned to the housekeeper, who was waiting for him expectantly.

“Take good care of the Duchess, Estella.”