Page 19 of Trapped with the Beastly Duke
Alexander frowned. “I do not need your thanks.” His words came out tight and clipped. “I am only doing what must be done.”
His heart sank as he saw the hurt on her face.
Why must I always say the wrong thing?
Feeling utterly wretched, he turned away from her, exiting the manor without uttering another word.
For a moment, he considered returning to her, ready to explain what he had meant, but then he decided against it. She would have to grow used to disappointment if she was to be his wife.
Yet, I can at least give her this one day.She deserves that much, at least.
With his mind made up, Alexander strode away from Pembleton Manor, determined to organize the most extravagant wedding the ton had ever witnessed.
At least Rose has plans, all I need do is fund them.
As he rounded a corner, the hurt on her face flashed in his mind.
After the wedding, he would keep his distance. It would be better for them both. He had spent years distancing himself from those around him, he could do it with this stranger.
A feeling that he could not quite place stirred within him as he resolved to keep his distance. Yet, before he could identify it, something hit his shoulder. He glanced down, only to find a dollop of white bird excrement on his coat.
Perfect, just perfect.
He hoped it wasn’t an omen. He left the estate, the strange feeling all but forgotten.
Chapter Seven
Her Big Day
In other circumstances, Rose might have been able to enjoy the beauty and splendor of Aldington Palace. After all, it was one of the oldest buildings in London and held more rooms than she could even imagine.
The palace was a marvel of sweeping architecture, every detail a reminder of the wealth of years gone by. She had spent many hours reading about the construction of the various great houses, and Aldington Palace had always held a special fascination for her.
Yet, as her carriage pulled up to the great entrance, and she prepared to alight, she felt nothing.
It is as if I am headed to the gallows, not my wedding.
“There are three ballrooms in the Palace.Three!” Jane exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement. “And we shall get to see all three!”
“I want to see the gardens.” Emily’s voice was dreamy, and Rose could tell she was imagining strolling through thevast gardens of the palace. “Oh, I can’t wait to see all the decorations!”
“Do you think people will like our dresses?” Jane looked worried as she looked down at her new gown. “Perhaps they will think the yellow is too much?”
Her younger sisters’ dresses were made of a delicate yellow muslin, hemmed with fine silk. Rose was about to say that she was sure they would be the envy of the ton, but Emily spoke first.
“No, we look lovely.” Emily nodded with such confidence that Rose almost laughed. “Besides, Rose’s dress is much more yellow than ours. And you wouldn’t say she is too much!”
“But she is the bride!” Jane glanced at her sister and then added apologetically, “Though, you do look lovely, Rose.”
“Thank you, Jane. So do you. And you, Emily.” Rose smiled at her sisters, her chest constricting as she did so.
I feel as though I will break at any moment.
Rose’s dress was a darker shade of yellow muslin, with short, puffed sleeves and ornate embroidery in gold. She wore silk gloves for modesty and new shoes. Her hair was ornately coiffed, and she wore a necklace of amber and yellow sapphire. Her mother had wanted her to wear diamonds, but Rose liked the way these gems caught the light.
She ran her hands over the dress, smiling at the embroidery. It was the only thing that felt like her.
I am truly ungrateful. How many other women get married in such splendor?