Page 47

The gravel crunched beneath his polished boots as he walked toward the imposing mansion. Nerves danced within him, but determination steadied his steps. Today, he would make his intentions clear, regardless of any obstacles.

The estate, surrounded by lush greenery, seemed to murmur with the secrets of its age-old trees. Matthew was conscious of the eyes that followed him, curious whispers already circulating about the Duke’s visit to the Piltons’ residence. The ton loved nothing more than a good piece of gossip, and he was acutely aware of becoming the latest topic of conversation.

Well, they could talk all they wanted.

Approaching the entrance, Matthew straightened his coat, his anticipation building with each step. However, the welcoming atmosphere he had expected shifted when the door swung open, revealing the stern countenance of Mrs. Abernathy, the Piltons’ housekeeper.

“Your Grace, to what do we owe this visit?”

What is she asking?

“I’ve come to call on Miss Agnes. I trust my visit was expected?” Matthew asked, still puzzled and instantly getting irked.

“Your Grace, Miss Agnes is indisposed. I’m afraid I can’t allow any visitors.”

Definitely something was wrong, and it reeked of Mary Pilton. Who else would try to disgrace him by instructing the housekeeper to send a duke away from their home, knowing people were watching?

Mary Pilton.

“Indisposed? I traveled all the way to—”

Before he could finish, Mrs. Abernathy interjected with a disapproving gaze, “Your Grace, Miss Agnes is unwell. It’s not a suitable time for a visit.”

The abrupt denial fueled Matthew’s anger. He felt the eyes of the ton on him, and he couldn’t allow this perceived slight to tarnish his reputation.

“And why do you think you are the one to deny me entrance? Where are your manners? I am the Duke of Huntington,” he growled, and for a split second, the housekeeper fumbled for words.

“I—Your Grace…”

He stood taller and glared down his nose at her. “Well, I insist on seeing her or anyone of importance. This is a matter of great value, and I won’t be turned away by a housekeeper.”

But his demand for entry was met with unwavering resistance.

Even though she looked scared, she remained steadfast. “Your Grace, I cannot—”

His anger rose as Mrs. Abernathy hesitated, but just as he was about to push further, Mary opened the door and stepped forward.

As soon as she walked out and saw Matthew, she froze in her steps and feigned a surprise that didn’t reach her eyes. “Your Grace, what’s all this commotion?” she asked as if insinuating that Matthew just came to cause trouble.

Matthew remembered everything his family had warned him about.

So, it was true.

He took a breath. “Lady Young, your housekeeper refuses to let me in. I’ve come to see Miss Agnes. Surely you were informed of this meeting.”

Her eyes widened dramatically—a bit too dramatically. “Oh, Your Grace, this is a misunderstanding. Agnes is not feeling well today, and I’ve instructed the staff not to entertain any visitors. It wasn’t meant as a slight against you.”

He nodded. “Indisposed? I was told, but why was I not informed beforehand? And why bar my entry?”

It was as if they wanted him to act rashly. Force his way in so they could blame him for behaving like a rascal and he could lose his position.

“Your Grace, it was a sudden development. I didn’t want to trouble you unnecessarily. Agnes is resting, and your understanding in this matter is appreciated,” Mary said in a soothing voice that grated on Matthew’s nerves.

They really were setting him up, and Matthew knew he had to tread carefully.

It hurt his pride, but he admitted defeat, this time.

“Very well. I suppose I can return another time. Ensure Miss Agnes knows of my concern for her health.”