Page 20 of Trapped with the Beastly Duke

Yet, if she were being honest with herself, she would gladly trade the opulence for love and affection.

She caught her sisters watching her and asked, “Are you ready?”

Jane and Emily nodded, their eyes wide with anticipation. “We are.”

“Good.” Rose smiled, wishing she felt as joyful as they did.

Theirs is the excitement of ignorance.

“Perhaps you could check that Cousin Cecily has her flowers?”

“It is so old-fashioned to have a flower girl, dearest Rose.” Jane shook her head. “But it isyourday, I suppose.”

“I will have a flower girl atmywedding.” Emily grinned at Rose. “I think it is oh so romantic.”

“You are fifteen, what do you know of romance?” Jane laughed. “I think the most romantic thing is the flowers and, of course, the ceremony itself. How lovely that the Duke has secured a special license and such a wonderful place for the celebration!”

“And he bought us these lovely dresses!” Emily beamed.

Rose smiled at her sisters. In truth, she had been surprised that he had paid for the dresses. When the dressmaker had included them on the same bill, Rose had worried that Alexander would be angry. Yet, there had been no complaint or objection.

He is a puzzling man. Generous, at least with his money.

“Girls, please.” Lady Cotswalts frowned at her daughters. “Let us check the final preparations, and once we are assured of everything, I will send your father to collect you, dearest Rose.”

Without waiting for a reply, the Viscountess ushered her daughters out of the carriage, and Rose watched as she disappeared out of sight. The last few guests were being ushered into the palace, and there was a crowd of people waiting on the steps. At that moment, Rose wished she had not insisted on such a large event.

It will be worth it. After today, no one will doubt my good fortune. Why, there hasn’t been a wedding like this for many years!

It was as close to a royal wedding as would be proper. Every detail had been planned to display the Duke’s power and wealth.Lady Cotswalts had had a hand in all but two things—Rose’s wedding gown and the menu for the wedding banquet.

“Are you ready, my darling girl?” Lord Cotswalts appeared at the carriage door, bringing Rose back to the present, his eyes soft and full of concern. “It is not too late to change your mind, should you wish it.”

How I wish that were true.

Rose felt a lump rise in her throat. “My mind is made, Papa, and I would not wish ruin upon our family.”

Her father ran a hand through his grey-streaked hair. “You are too selfless, my dearest Rose. Your sisters may not understand your sacrifice, but I do.”

“It is no sacrifice to do one’s duty.” Rose’s smile felt brittle. “After all, the Duke has been most generous, and I am sure in time I will find happiness.”

“If anyone could find the strength to do so, it would be you.” The Viscount squeezed her hand. “You are like your mother. The world may try to break your spirit, but you will not let it.”

Rose’s eyes filled with tears.

Yet, I feel as though I am breaking.

“Come, there is no sense delaying the inevitable. Let us go.” Lord Cotswalts held his arm towards his daughter, helping her down from the carriage.

“Of course, Papa.” She smiled brightly, hoping her tears would be mistaken for joyous ones. “Thank you.”

Rose took her father’s arm and allowed him to lead her through the crowd of people and into the hall reserved for the ceremony. She kept her smile fixed on her face.

I must sell this story to them if I am to take control. They must believe every moment as if it were their own.

As she walked into the hall, she heard gasps of shock. She smiled and saw the Duke standing on the dais, waiting for her.Beside him stood the Duke of Glassley, his bright countenance only serving to highlight the harsh lines of Alexander’s face.

Yet, Alexander’s expression was soft—or rather as soft as Rose had ever seen it.