Page 2 of My Blind Duke (The Twisted Dukes #5)

One Year Later

“ Y ou know, Prudence, you are luckier than you realize,” Johanna Borrs said as she took a glass of sherry from a passing footman.

The ballroom at Pemberly Manor was filled to the brim with guests whom Prudence hardly recognized. Letting her mother compile the invitations now seemed like a mistake as she stared at the sea of faces.

“I am lucky that my husband passed away?” Prudence stared at her mother in disbelief before glancing around at the crowded ballroom.

A few couples lounged on the chaise lounges in almost compromising positions while others stood around the piano, laughing uproariously.

None of the other ladies around them seemed shocked or even batted an eyelid at their surroundings or her mother’s words. It was not unlike Prudence’s mother to state her opinion in shocking ways. In stark contrast to how she had been in the past, Johanna no longer seemed like the quiet and frail woman she had been when Prudence was little.

Patting the strands of her light blonde hair back into place, Prudence’s mother smiled at her. Her green eyes shone with mischief.

“You misunderstand me, dearest, I simply meant that you are lucky not to have to deal with a husband who demands your attention at all hours of the day. It can be quite exhausting you know. It never seems to stop.”

The other ladies began to giggle as they exchanged a few knowing glances, making Prudence wish her mother would stop.

“It is all hours of the day for them. Morning, noon, or night, they expect you to be in their bed no matter the weather. I cannot tell you how many times I was woken up to–”

“Mama!” Prudence felt utterly mortified as her cheeks filled with color. There were not many times when she had wished that the earth would swallow her whole, but they did seem to coincide with her mother showing up at her parties.

“Oh, settle down, Prudence, dear. All the ladies here are married. They understand what I am saying. Having a husband is an exhausting occupation. At my age, I can hardly keep up with his demands; I am almost regretting my decision to remarry, but after your father–”

“Mama, I am begging you to please stop.” Prudence felt like melting into the spot from embarrassment. This was not the time to let an assembly of gossiping ladies into how her father was found dead in the bed of his mistress.

Years later, Prudence’s mother fell in love with a wealthy merchant, going against society’s expectations and demands for high standing when she married an untitled man. The union, in Prudence’s opinion, seemed to have awakened her mother’s hidden side.

“I think what your mother is trying to say is that you should be enjoying your time without a husband, Your Grace,” Lady Ashford added with a smile.

“I understand what you mean, Lady Ashford, but I can only enjoy so much time alone until the new heir is traced. Who knows what will happen when he arrives?” Prudence voiced some of her fears.

“But that could take years before it becomes a reality. How long has it been now? More than a year if I recall correctly. They may never even find this heir. If he even exists.” A tall lady with ginger hair and fair skin added her opinion to the conversation.

Looking at the woman as she chewed the inside of her cheek, Prudence struggled to recall her name, hoping she would not have to address her at any point.

It had been this way for Prudence for quite a while now. Surrounded by faces that invoked shallow emotions, with names she could never seem to commit to memory. She had become quite popular since her debut, but she still could not wrap her head around all the people interested in spending time in her company.

But she could not deny that she longed for the gaggle of pointless chatter and high-pitched laughs. It was certainly better than the loneliness that awaited her within the walls of her home. Still, she was self-aware enough to know that the women who frequented her parties were more like acquaintances rather than friends.

“Be that as it may, the gossip sheets have not been kind to me either. They call me the Black Widow . All the servants still regard me with suspicion. Many of them even refuse to serve me. It is difficult to run a household as a duchess when nobody regards you as worthy.” Prudence heard herself admit, sullenly voicing her sad and frustrating reality.

The pit of her stomach churned uncomfortably when she recalled the look of disgust on the housekeeper’s face all those nights ago.

Will I ever escape that night?

“Your Grace, you must come and sing us a song!” Lady Swanson shouted from afar as she lifted her glass, nearly spilling her wine on her light green gown.

The trays of wine and champagne circulated among the guests as footmen in black livery served them dutifully. A few avoided Prudence altogether until she snagged a glass of champagne in passing.

The servant pulled the tray away too late before shooting Prudence a disapproving glare over his shoulder, causing annoyance to shoot through her.

My own servants despise me. I should send them all away.

She scowled before shaking her head and taking a sip from her glass. Sending all of the servants away without so much as a scathing reference would teach them all a lesson, yet she did not quite have it in her heart to be that cruel.

Another guest pleaded with her to take the floor and regale them with playing the pianoforte, causing Prudence’s stomach to churn nervously. Quickly, she thought of a way out and stammered through a light refusal.

“Oh, I would so hate to disappoint you all with my lack of skill. But I think we had better allow someone far more talented than myself.” She forced a smile, eliciting a round of polite laughter.

Her mother placed a hand on her arm and addressed the small crowd. “I think Lady Ashford has yet to bless us with a song. If I am not mistaken, she has quite the voice. One of a nightingale, if I can recall correctly.” She gave Prudence’s arm an encouraging squeeze.

“I would be delighted to entertain you all. Thank you for your kind praises!” Lady Ashford came forward with her nose in the air, smirking at everyone who watched her walk.

A moment of silence filled the room as everyone waited expectantly for the song to start.

One of the gentlemen took a seat at the pianoforte, flinging the tails from beneath his legs as he made himself ready with his fingers poised over the keys. His gaze momentarily fell on Prudence, slinking downward as though he wanted to commit a bit of her to memory. The hungry look in his eyes made her shiver in disgust and she quickly turned away.

Soon, a catchy tune filled the air as Lady Ashford opened her mouth, matching the notes with perfect pitch. Those interested in the songstress clamored closer to listen. Meanwhile, others lingered behind to continue sipping their drinks and gossip.

“Have you seen Lord Davis tonight? He seems to be worming his way into Miss Daniella’s heart – and likely her drawers by the end of the night.”

Prudence tried not to gasp at the statement that made its way into her ears.

“Miss Daniella? I could have sworn I saw him complimenting Lady Beatrice not too long ago, looking as though he was ready to pluck stars from the sky for her,” another person stated in surprise.

“The stars? Please. The only thing that sly rake is capable of obtaining is a good thrashing once it comes to light that he is deceiving so many women.”

Prudence snorted into her drink and stepped away from the duo, only to find herself catching snippets of another conversation.

“The Black Widow seems as though she has finally shed the pretense of mourning her husband. I have seen her strutting around confidently, all evening – clearly proud that she has managed to fool the ton. Or so she believes.”

The remark was strange to Prudence, who knew better than anyone that if there was one thing she actually lacked tonight, it was confidence. She was nervous and anxious, but apparently, to outsiders, otherwise was the case.

“I am appalled by her vanity. Have you seen the way she openly leers at men? Perhaps it is true then, what people say about her taking multiple lovers to her bed. Do you think one of them will be her next victim?”

“Perhaps if we were to tell her we know what she is hiding–” the woman trailed off, eyes widening when she spotted Prudence standing only a few meters away.

Embarrassed, she cleared her throat and stuttered her way into another topic, “…these refreshments are excellent. I do not think the hostess could have done a better job choosing them!”

“Yes, yes. Excellent. Shall we step out for some fresh air?” Her friend intoned, face pale when she also saw Prudence.

Prudence knew people did not trust her, and that doubts of her innocence in the death of her husband still lingered. But it struck her as odd how they could accuse her of murder and still be willing to eat and drink in her home.

And yet they do not have the backbone to tell these things to my face.

She hurried along, into a group of men and women smoking and laughing, unabashed.

“Your Grace! Would you like to join us?” one of the men grinned, stepping closer to her.

It took all Prudence had within her not to flinch, absentmindedly noting that Lady Ashford was still singing as she shook her head.

“Oh, thank you for the kind offer. I was actually on my way out to the gardens for some air,” Prudence stated quickly, with as polite of a smile as she could muster.

“If you wish, I could accompany you–”

“There is no need. Please enjoy the rest of your evening,” she smiled hurriedly as she turned away.

It was clear that the party was going out of control and although she was nervous about being in the papers again, she did not wish to spoil the fun of her guests.

Quickly, she moved further from them, sighing in relief when she found her mother a little away, admiring the duet.

“I should probably stop them, but who am I to ruin their fun?” Prudence sighed as she stood next to Johanna, wishing she could get another drink to loosen up the nerves bundling up beneath her skin. “What if word of it goes out? The papers will be all over me once again.”

Taking the opportunity, Johanna turned to her daughter with a worried expression. “I do so wish that you would stop worrying so much, my dearest. Take a look around this fine room. You are the Duchess of Pemberly. All of your guests are having a fine evening. There is nothing for you to concern yourself with. Your friends were right, they may never find an heir to replace the duke.”

“But there is always a chance that they will. Not to mention that half of London thinks that I murdered my husband. I have heard the whispers, Mama, even from the ladies who call themselves my friends. What is to become of me when an heir does eventually come forward?” Prudence searched her mother’s face for an answer, noting the lines around her eyes and mouth.

In every way possible, Prudence resembled her mother with bright green eyes and fine features. It used to grant her some form of comfort, seeing an older form of herself that had survived numerous trials and tribulations. But now, she could not seem to find that same reprieve, especially in the face of her own problems.

“Listen to me, Prudence. My entire life, I have lived obeying my husband, following all the rules, enduring all kinds of humiliation. I cannot stand by and see you do the same for an heir that probably does not even exist!”

“I know, Mama, but–”

“No buts. Speaking of men, did I not see a young gentleman flirting with you earlier? What was his name, Lord Musgrove? I think he is about to ask you to dance. Why do you not enjoy yourself a little, even if it is just for this evening?” Her mother placed her hands on Prudence’s shoulders and turned her around, making her face the crowd.

Lord Musgrove – the man who had offered to go on a walk with her earlier – came striding toward her, offering his hand in a cheeky manner that intended to exude charm.

“It cannot hurt,” her mother whispered in her ear before giving her shoulders a gentle push.

I suppose it cannot.

Prudence decided to enjoy the moment of respite as she placed her gloved hand in that of the Viscount and allowed herself to be pulled into the middle of the room.

The Viscount guided her onto the floor and winked before spinning her under his arm and eliciting a round of applause from her guests who cheered them on before returning to their various engagements.

Her heart lifted slightly as she began to enjoy the moment, allowing her worries to be swept away by the melody of the music.

The Viscount spun her in again and lowered his voice into a seductive whisper. “I hope you will not think it too forward of me, Your Grace, but it has been a long time since I have seen a woman as beautiful as you. A man could get lost in the brilliance of your emerald eyes.” His smile grew larger as his gaze wandered over her bosom.

His arm around her tightened slightly, and she fought back a shiver of discomfort.

“Thank you, Lord Musgrove. That is very kind of you to say.” She forced up a smile.

“You know, Your Grace, I have nothing but the deepest respect for you and your independence. But I know enough to know that women are creatures of… desire, just like any man. I am not asking for your hand in marriage. I would not think of taking away the life you love so dearly. However, if you wish, you will find my company is capable of bringing you immense pleasure.” He lingered beside her cheek for a moment before pulling back and winking.

Prudence lost her smile then, shocked and repulsed at the audacious offer the man was making.

What is he implying?

“Excuse me? I do not think–”

Prudence felt her words fall away as a gasp broke past her lips instead, shocked to momentary stillness as the Viscount’s hand began to move down her back. She knew where it was going, and what he was trying to do, and was relieved when it stopped just above her buttocks.

He leaned in close once more and whispered, “Rumor has it that your late husband never consummated the marriage. I would love to be the one to do the honors.”

He lowered his gaze to her bosom again, eyes hungry as his tongue darted out to wet his lower lip.

Prudence allowed her mouth to open ever slightly as he pulled her against his body, leaving little to no room for interpretation as the swelling in his breeches pressed against her thigh.

She tried to pull back immediately, a fiery reproach on the tip of her tongue “How dare you–”

“Your Grace!” A shriek suddenly brought the party to a stop, making Prudence jump as she backed away from the Viscount.

Heads turned in stunned silence as the entire room focused on the person standing at the door.

Looking a little sheepish, the short man with a balding head and a pinched expression, cleared his throat. “I beg your pardon, Your Grace, I did not mean to interrupt, but I am afraid there is a matter of great urgency. I must speak with you in private at once.”

Recognizing her husband’s solicitor, Prudence stiffened again as she finally stepped away from the Viscount.

The room continued to stare in stunned silence as she made her excuses and followed the solicitor into the hall.

“My apologies, Mr. Henry. Was there perhaps a meeting I forgot, or has something else come to light?” Prudence’s heart pounded furiously as she shut the door behind them and guided him away from prying ears and into another room.

“No, Your Grace, nothing of the sort. I must apologize again for the intrusion, but the news simply could not wait until morning.” Mr. Henry clasped the brim of his top hat between his fingers and lifted his gaze to meet hers.

Oh, mercy me.

Her throat suddenly felt dry as she thought of all the rumors surrounding her husband’s death. No news that needed to be delivered in the middle of the night could bode well for her future.

“What is it then?” She attempted to force a smile but failed.

“The heir has been found, Your Grace.”

The world seemed to spin as the music and chatter of her guests suddenly struck up in the background.

“And I am afraid that you will have to leave immediately. Of course, there will be a small allowance for you, but you can no longer reside here in Pemberly House. I am told that the new duke is not a kind or understanding man. He will not suffer you living under his roof.”

Finally, the moment she had dreaded had come.

Prudence thought that she would have felt more prepared to receive this information, or at least stable enough to move swiftly as was expected of her. But suddenly it was as though the floor had fallen apart from under her and she was falling, nearly lost in an endless pit just like the one that had almost consumed her after the death of her husband.

Is this how it all ends for me? Discarded and displaced?

“No.” Prudence suddenly snapped out of her daze.

“No? Your Grace?” The solicitor asked her with a concerned frown.

“No, I will not leave my home in the middle of the night. I am not a criminal. There is nothing chasing me that would warrant me running away as though I have committed some heinous crime. This is as much my house as it is his. The new Duke of Pemberly will just have to come to terms with that.”

“But Your Grace, this man is–”

“Thank you, Mr. Henry. That will be all.” She turned on her heels and headed back toward the party.

If I leave suddenly as he wishes, it will be like admitting I did something wrong.

Her palms began to sweat as she stepped into the empty hall. She did not know who this new heir was, but if he was going to dismiss her so casually, then she fully intended to enjoy the rest of her party. It might very well be the last chance she had to relish in ease and excellence. The rest would have to be dealt with whenever the man arrived.

She looked up to see one of the maids carrying a tray of empty glasses. “Would you kindly instruct the footmen to bring in more champagne?”

The girl’s face twisted into a sour countenance and she thrust her nose in the air, passing by without stopping. “I have too many chores already, ask somebody else,” she snapped before disappearing down the hall.

These servants will be the death of me.

Prudence sighed and continued to walk back to the ballroom.

It was clear that things needed to change around the manor, and soon. She could not let the new duke see the disarray the household was in. But if he thought that she would leave her own home like a criminal, he would have another thing coming.