Page 41 of The Secret Love of a Gentleman (The Marlow Family Secrets #3)

The day after the Earl of Pickford’s ball, after the family had eaten luncheon, a stream of unexpected visitors began calling on the Duke and Duchess of Pembroke.

Caro positioned herself on a window seat, so no one could choose a chair near her, and observed them arriving. Carriage after carriage came.

They had not really called to see John and Katherine, they called here to stare at the fallen Marchioness.

Drew had shown her an article in the newspaper that morning.

It was noted last evening that the cast-off Marchioness of K dared show her face in town and all eyes were upon the Marquis, yet his were upon her.

Caro’s skin had warmed with a blush, but she was glad Drew showed her. It was better she knew what was being said about her.

She nodded as their callers talked, but her thoughts were not in the room with them. She smiled at that thought, because it was not her nerves revolting, she simply had no interest in these nosy people. She was just enduring this afternoon in ordered to reach tomorrow’s, when Rob would be here.

When the clock chimed four and the last caller left, Caro moved to an armchair and dropped into the seat sighing with exhaustion.

Mary laughed.

Caro smiled. ‘May I cry off this evening?’ The family were going to a musical evening, and as Rob would not be there she did not want to go. ‘This afternoon has been too taxing, I would rather stay here. Would you mind?’

‘Of course we do not mind. Remain here and rest.’

‘I shall retire now, then, if you will excuse me, Kate. May I take a simple supper in my rooms?’ Caro stood.

‘Of course, Caroline,’ the Duchess agreed.