Page 12 of A Simple Scandal (Millionaires of Mayfair #3)

Eleven

T he ugly sneer on Marbury’s face contrasted with the formal dining room’s beauty. Their dinner had been served on the duke’s best china and silver service. The footmen’s black and gold formal livery was only used for the most honored guests. Yet, they had sat in the dining room for over two hours after finishing the meal in the first hour. Marbury was on his second port and becoming angrier by the moment.

Dane had undoubtedly planned to impress his guests if appearances were any indication. Marbury’s aggravated sigh once again broke the eerie quiet in the dining room. Even Grace would admit that it set her on edge. She clasped her shaking hands in her lap to hide her nervousness. She didn’t want to take a sip of wine, fearing it would spill. The young earl was certainly not happy with the welcome they’d received so far. Even Grace would admit that it was an affront that Dane hadn’t appeared or left them another message.

If Dane was trying to woo Athena, he was off to a poor showing with her guardian.

At the direction of Winston’s wave, the footmen cleared off the remaining plates and dishes on the table.

With a daintiness that any finishing school matron would be proud of, Athena gently patted the edges of her mouth. With an inherent elegance, she placed her serviette in her lap and regarded her guardian. “I’m sure the duke will be here directly.”

Winston cleared his throat. “If I may, tea will be served in the music room.” His kind smile didn’t crack under the strain of having one angry earl in his presence. “Perhaps a little music would?—”

“I don’t want any bloody tea or music,” the earl growled, then stood abruptly. “I’m going for a ride.”

“A ride?” Athena stood abruptly, almost knocking over her chair. “It’s dark. What if you fall or the horse throws you?”

“Worried for me?” He tilted his head and studied her. “Save your concerns for your duke.”

“He’s not my duke,” she hissed.

“Shall I have one of His Grace’s mounts readied for you?” Always the consummate butler, Winston interrupted to nip the squabble that was set to erupt between Dane’s two guests.

“An excellent idea.” Grace stood and reached for Athena’s hand. “The duke’s grounds are well-lit when he has guests.”

“How do you know that?” Athena asked as she took Grace’s outstretched hand.

“I’ve visited Pelham Hall several times at the invitation of the duke’s sisters. We have spent many evenings enjoying the formal gardens at night.” She turned to Marbury. “If you’ll excuse us, we’ll adjourn to the music room.”

The earl didn’t acknowledge her comment as he turned on the ball of his foot and practically stomped down the hallway.

“Come, let’s you and I have a cup of tea. I’ll play for you if you’d like.” Grace gently tugged Athena in the opposite direction from where the earl had headed.

As they entered the music room, the footman set a tea service on the table and nodded at Grace. Discreetly, he closed the door behind him.

“May I pour?” Grace stopped instantly when she spied a lone tear skate down Athena’s cheek. “Oh, my dear, what is it?”

“I just do not understand Jasper or his moods. Sometimes, he treats me as if I am his favorite person. The next minute, it’s as if he cannot leave my sight fast enough.” Her eyes reddened with tears. “Are all men like that, or just him?”

“I think Lord Marbury is a complicated man with complicated feelings,” Grace murmured diplomatically.

“What does that mean?”

“May I be frank?” Grace pulled Athena into a sofa that faced the formal courtyard, which was bathed in an ethereal glow from the outside lanterns. “Perhaps he has feelings that he either doesn’t recognize or refuses to admit.”

Athena’s brow furrowed into neat lines. “Feelings for what?”

“Not what but whom,” Grace nudged. “Do you not see the way he looks at you? He couldn’t keep from stealing glances at you in the carriage ride.” She retrieved a handkerchief from the hidden pocket sewn into her gown and slipped it into Athena’s hand.

“Thank you.” Athena wiped her tears. “But I’ve known this man since I was in leading strings. He teased me unmercifully then, and now, he can’t bear to look at me. I have lived under his roof ever since my parents passed, and I can confidently say that you’re mistaken.”

“Darling, I recognize when two people love each other across a crowded ballroom. A slim distance between carriage benches makes it even easier to see.”

For a moment, she wanted to withdraw the words. She was supposed to be helping Athena secure a marriage proposal from Dane. But every time she thought upon the task, it curdled her stomach. Inside, a voice cried that he was hers and would always be hers. Yet, logic said she needed security in this world and could only attain that through the monies she’d earn by ensuring this match succeeded.

It wasn’t like she was doing something against Dane’s best interests. Lady Athena was a prize; any man would be proud to claim her as his wife. Truthfully, it would be easy for the right man to fall in love with her. She was vivacious and intelligent and had a way about her that appealed to people. She was open and would be a loving partner to a husband. Grace did not doubt that.

Which belied the question of where Grace’s loyalties should lie?

Should it be with Athena, the young charge she was helping, or with Marbury, who was paying for her services? Bringing up Marbury’s obvious deep feelings for Athena muddied the answer. But Grace’s feelings for an infuriatingly handsome and arrogant duke churned the waters even more. She couldn’t deny what she felt but tried to ignore the protests from her heart.

The door burst open before she could say more, and an incensed Marbury stood before them. “Athena, we shall leave at the first break of dawn. We will not accept any further hospitality from the duke.” His voice dripped with venom.

“But—” Athena stood and wrung her hands.

“Now is not the time to question me.” He took a deep breath, which seemed to calm him. “Please. For me,” he said gently. “Will you go to your room and pack?”

Athena nodded and quietly left the room.

Marbury watched Athena leave before he turned to Grace.

“What happened?” she asked, sitting on the sofa's edge.

“I rode the short distance to the Jolly Rooster on the suspicion that Pelham was there.”

As soon as he said the words, Grace sucked in a breath as if she’d been punched in the stomach.

“I hate to share this with you as I know you have a high opinion of His Grace. But that man”—Marbury pointed in the general direction of the Jolly Rooster in the nearby village—“is sitting at a card table with three other men. Gambling and carousing.” He laughed, but it held little humor. “Not only that, but he has two almost naked women surrounding him at the table. They’re hanging on him like barnacles on a ship.”

Grace stood stock still. His words shot straight through her heart. It was the exact same thing he’d done all those years ago after he’d asked her to marry him.

“Surely, you are mistaken,” she murmured, bringing her hand to her chest, hoping to calm her runaway heartbeat.

“No, my lady.” Marbury walked to a table where several bottles of whisky, port, brandy, and glasses stood. He poured himself a glass of whisky.

Dane had never abided by the dictates of society that said women should drink tea while the men imbibe in liquor. He believed that if you served whisky to one, you served it to all. Right then, she had never been so glad that he bucked society’s expectations as it related to serving liquor to females. She needed the liquid strength. “Would you pour me one, please?”

Marbury didn’t move as he slowly glanced her way.

“A whisky,” Grace added with a lift of an eyebrow. If Marbury thought she was a respected matron , then he could damn well serve her a glass.

“Of course, my lady.” He poured her a fingerful and brought it to her side.

Grace thanked him with a nod, then took a sip of the liquor and concentrated on the smooth burn as it slid down her throat.

“Obviously, if the duke doesn’t hold enough regard to welcome us after he invited Athena and me to visit, then we shall no longer intrude upon his hospitality.” Marbury downed his glass and set it on the table in front of Grace. “You’re invited to leave with us on the morrow as well. I see that your rooms are on the family floor while Athena’s is in the guest wing.” Before Grace could respond, he continued, “May I escort you to the stairs that lead to your chambers?”

Grace cleared her throat. “No, thank you, my lord. I shall discuss our leaving with Winston. He’ll ensure that everything is ready for our departure, with footmen ready to assist in loading the carriage.”

“Excellent idea.” Marbury smiled, though his expression looked more like a grimace. “As you can surmise, I’m not fit company for anyone right now.” He clenched his fists. “I will not allow anyone, including the Duke of Pelham, to disrespect Athena. We’ll discuss how to proceed with your bonuses since the Duke of Pelham will no longer be considered a suitor worthy of Athena’s hand. I’m a fair man. You shouldn’t suffer financially because the duke is an absolute buffoon. Honestly, I view this as good fortune. I would blame myself if they’d made a match and Athena was unhappy.” He glanced out at the courtyard. “There’s a full moon. I’m tempted to leave tonight, but I’m afraid it would upset Athena even more.”

Grace didn’t add that it would be a fool moon if Marbury tried to leave this evening. “I think that’s wise advice, my lord.”

He dipped his head. “Good night, Lady Grace.

“Good night.” Grace stood and placed her glass on the desk next to Marbury’s empty one.

“Ma’am?” Winston peeked his head around the corner. “I wondered if you needed anything before you retired.”

A certain duke to reprimand came to mind. What had Dane been thinking? Obviously, he hadn’t. His cock had. She bit her cheek to avoid saying anything she’d regret.

“Do you know why the duke is at the Jolly Rooster gambling right now?” She astonished herself with the calmness in her voice. “You mentioned that he was expected to return within the hour after we arrived. It’s been over six hours.”

Winston’s cheeks turned cherry red as he quickly ducked his head to stare at the floor. “My lady, he was called away on business.”

“Winston,” she softly cajoled. “Marbury saw him at the Jolly Rooster.” She didn’t add that Marbury also saw Dane with naked women hanging around his neck. “Do you know what he is doing?”

With cheeks still burnished red, Winston raised his gaze to hers. “I cannot say, Lady Grace.”

His silence just infuriated her more. “While I admire your loyalty, I must find out the answers. Pelham invited these people here for a stay and has shown himself to be a complete arse—” She took a deep breath. “Forgive my crudeness.”

“I understand how it must appear, but I believe His Grace will be able to explain everything when he arrives in the morning.” Winston rocked back on his feet.

“Morning,” Grace cried. “His guests are leaving at the first break of dawn, and I plan to return to London with them.”

At that moment, everything became crystal clear. Dane might be a duke, but his behavior was more akin to a naughty boy. No, it was more akin to an arrogant schoolboy who thought he owned the world.

Well, she was finished with him and his abhorrent behavior. Just like all those years ago, he only thought of his own needs and pleasures.

“Would you ask that a carriage be brought around?”

“Ma’am?” Winston asked, clearly shocked.

“A carriage,” she reiterated.

She understood what she needed to do to move beyond her regret of investing so much attention on Dane.

She would visit the Jolly Rooster and inform the duke that she would return his money as soon as she arrived in London. After tonight, her worry about hurting his feelings for accepting Marbury’s additional funds was moot.

She would no longer work for Dane Ardeerton, the Duke of Pelham.

And she would not spare another thought on him after tonight.

“Ma’am, I’m sure the duke would not want you to be out this late.”

Winston’s persuasive voice and wringing hands did not deter Grace from her mission.

“His Grace will be most displeased,” the butler added unhelpfully.

Grace took the coachman’s extended hand as she exited the carriage. As soon as she stepped onto the ground, the bustling sounds of the inn’s coachyard greeted her. Horses neighed while coachmen and groomsmen called out for assistance from the Jolly Rooster staff. From the looks of the activity, the inn was successful on its own, which allowed Dane to make his fortunes with his cards while entertaining his women .

Grace didn’t care what His High and Mighty did anymore. The Duke of Pelham wasn’t her concern.

Honestly, what was the allure of gambling? First, her father, and now Dane. She’d never realized that they were so much alike.

“If His Grace is displeased, it has nothing to do with me. I’m here for business reasons only. He understands business.” She headed toward the entrance.

Winston hurried to her side. “Ma’am, please.”

Grace stopped suddenly, causing her skirts to slap against her legs. “I can assure you that I’ll inform him that you tried to dissuade me from coming.” She pointed in the direction of Pelham Hall. “Winston,” she said softly. “He has two guests who are bewildered and upset about how the duke has ignored them. Such behavior reminds me of a misbehaving toddler and wouldn’t be tolerated by any rational person.” She turned on the ball of her foot and walked the short entrance to the inn.

As soon as she entered, she was greeted by a man.

“Good evening, ma’am.” The middle-aged man with a full head of gray hair regarded her. “I’m Jack James, the innkeeper of the Jolly Rooster. Are you looking for a room? Is your husband with you?”

The innkeeper was dressed in a fine black broadcloth coat and wool pants. He could easily have been mistaken for a wealthy landowner instead of an employee of the Jolly Rooster.

If Pippa were here, she’d be in awe of the craftsmanship and the high quality of the material. A brass plaque hung on the wall behind the innkeeper. With a high polish, it seemed to glisten. For a moment, she thought she caught a glimpse of the inscription of an intertwined “D” and "G." She blinked, and the image transformed into squiggly lines. She leaned in closer.

The Jolly Rooster is dedicated to my future duchess, the very definition of grace.

She wanted to roll her eyes at such a sentiment. Instead, she pasted a demure smile on her lips. “Good evening, Mr. James. I do not need a room, nor am I married. I need to speak to the Duke of Pelham.” Grace widened her stance in determination. “If you’ll point me in his direction, I will see to my business and leave.”

Mr. James glanced at Winston, who nodded slightly.

“Ma’am, His Grace is in the main cardroom with his guests. No one has been allowed in the room for the last two hours.” The innkeeper lowered his voice and turned to Winston. “You know the significance of that.”

Dane’s butler nodded, then turned to Grace. “My lady, he’s in the midst of an intense game and cannot be disturbed.”

She’d accompanied her father and mother to the Jolly Rooster numerous times when she was younger. She knew where the cardroom was located and was determined to see Pelham. It made little difference what objections Winston or Mr. James had expressed.

The innkeeper nodded in agreement. “I’m sorry, ma’am.”

“I’m sorry, too,” Grace agreed with a feigned air of disappointment.

“I’ll share with His Grace that you wish to speak with him as soon as the game ends,” Mr. James added unhelpfully.

“Thank you,” she answered in her most demure voice.

Winston turned to escort her out of the inn. Neither man paid attention to her, as several guests had just arrived. It only took her a split second to make her decision. Lifting her skirt slightly, Grace boldly strolled through the inn until she found the cardroom door.

“Ma’am,” the innkeeper scolded from behind her. “You can’t interrupt him.”

“Lady Grace,” Winston called out.

The thud of boots and shoes against the wooden floor gave notice that both men were scrambling after her. Thankfully, there wasn’t a footman guarding the cardroom entrance. Without hesitating, she depressed the door latch and entered the room.

The cardroom could easily have been mistaken for the formal salon at Pelham Hall. The space was artfully decorated with furniture adorned with rich crimson silks and ivory and black brocades. A massive wooden table glimmering in the candlelight stood front and center. Cards, markers, and liquor glasses sat on the table like chess pieces on a chessboard. The overwhelming scents of cigar smoke, whisky, and perfume swirled around her. She swallowed to suppress a cough.

All the men sitting at the table turned in unison to look when she entered.

“Lady Grace, is that you? Fancy meeting you here of all places,” a man called out jovially.

Once her eyes adjusted to the dim lighting, Grace recognized Lord Alton Brixworth immediately. With a dubious reputation, the viscount loitered on the outskirts of polite society. She’d always been wary of him and had never once allowed any of her charges to interact with him.

“Come and sit on my lap. You’ll bring me luck,” Lord Brixworth chortled. “I’ll return the favor afterward. You can come to my room, and we’ll both get lucky.”

At the insult, the room grew eerily quiet.

Grace smoothed her hand down her gown. “No, thank you. I’m here for?—”

“Lady Grace, you need to leave.” A rasp, like a hissing snake, sounded from the end of the table. “Now.”

Her gaze skidded down the table until her eyes met Dane’s. His hardened stare glowed with anger, and his cheeks were unusually red, no doubt from heavy drinking and smoking too many cigars. But when she caught sight of the women, she whimpered slightly.

Two women in various stages of dishabille surrounded him. One had her arm slung around his shoulders. Another appeared to whisper in his ear as her breasts threatened to tumble out of her silk gown.

Fearing she was about to cast up her accounts, Grace turned her head only for her shock to grow even more remarkable. Surrounding the perimeter of the room, other men sat holding other scantily clad women. A few of the women stood facing the men and allowed them to lap at their exposed breasts. Some of the men were content with women sitting on their laps chatting, while others were in the throes of passion, sharing sensuous kisses.

If she didn’t know any better, she would have believed she’d stumbled into a bawdy house.

“Winston,” Dane barked curtly. “Get her out of here.”

Grace stared at him, unable to look away. The eerie glow of his reddened eyes and flushed cheeks made him appear like an otherworldly being, a demon from a fiery underworld.

He stared back at her without any trace of emotion. There was no anger, no fury, no shame, or even disappointment on his face. Dane Ardeerton, the Duke of Pelham, had not changed. He was still the same person who had disappointed her all those years ago. Only this time, she witnessed all his debauchery and all his vices for herself.

She turned and fled the inn, not waiting for Winston to follow her. All she wanted was a bath to wash the stench from her skin. No wonder Marbury was livid when he’d arrived home.

She felt the same. Yet, she didn’t want to examine her feelings tonight. Otherwise, she would break down into tears. How could she still feel so much for the man when he cared for no one except himself?

Winston hurried to keep up with her rapid pace as she flew out the inn's entrance.

A coachman wearing the ducal livery offered his hand, and she quickly vaulted into the carriage. Winston followed and collapsed onto the bench, out of breath.

“My lady,” the butler wheezed. “Allow me to explain.”

“No need. I know what I saw, and I know you saw it, too. He was in the middle of a card game, surrounded by half-naked women. You could tell by his coloring that he was in his element.” She knocked on the carriage roof. With a jolt, the coach and four began the short journey back to Pelham Hall.

“My lady, please,” Winston objected. “It is not what it appears.”

“Stop.” She raised her hand, her palm directed at the butler. “I saw it with my own eyes. He doesn’t need my assistance in finding a wife. He has no trouble attracting the interest of the opposite sex.” She crossed her arms while her heart thundered in her chest. “They’re welcome to him.”