Page 29 of Trapped with the Beastly Duke

“I do not know that I will ever see the man beneath the mask.” Rose sighed.

If the man even exists.

“Besides, I scarcely see him anyway. I fear he does not care much for my company.”

“I find that hard to believe.” Olivia smiled kindly. “Who would not enjoy your company?”

Rose blushed. “I have scarcely seen him since our wedding. If I am honest, it had been weeks since I spoke to someone other than a servant.”

Something caught Olivia’s attention, and Rose turned to see the familiar figure of the Duke striding towards them. He stiffened and so did she.

Olivia looked between them and sighed. “Brother, do you have plans this evening?” she called.

“I have some matters to attend to and will be in my study.” The Duke looked as though he would turn away.

“I think not, Brother dearest. Tonight, I expect you to join me and Lady Rose for dinner.” Olivia folded her arms across her chest, a defiant look in her eyes.

Rose only just managed to stop herself from gaping in astonishment. The Duke’s body seemed to tense up for a moment, and she recoiled, ready for the angry outburst she had been expecting for weeks. Yet, no outburst came.

Instead, he sighed and shook his head. “Fine. I shall see you tonight for dinner.”

Then he departed while muttering under his breath.

Rose let out a sigh of relief. She glanced at Olivia, who looked thoroughly pleased with herself.

“This evening will be delightful, just you wait.” Olivia took Rose’s arm once more. “Come, let us pick something fabulous for you to wear. I brought my own evening wear, of course. This is going to be sublime!”

Rose said nothing, simply nodding. For all Olivia’s effusive charm, she was sure the evening would end in disaster.

What have you gotten us into?

Chapter Ten

Dinner Is Served

Alexander sat at the table in stony silence as his sister and Rose chatted and laughed. He felt something stir inside of him as he watched them, and tried to puzzle it out.

“Why are you glowering, Brother mine?” Olivia pointed her spoon at him.

“I am not glowering.” Alexander was fairly certain he hadn’t been glowering. “I am thinking.”

“Then perhaps you should think less aggravating thoughts.” Olivia laughed. “Or you could share your thoughts with us.”

“I was simply glad that you and the Duchess seem to have developed such an affection for each other.” Alexander felt the same, unfamiliar twinge in his chest and frowned. “Will you be visiting us long? Mother did not let me know of your travel plans, or I would have accompanied you.”

Olivia rolled her eyes at him. “My dearest Alexander, Mother told you last month that I would be visiting on the eighth. Andthat she had arranged for me to travel post from Glassley. I had a maid with me. I was quite safe, I assure you.”

“It is not the eighth already, is it?” Alexander frowned.

It is not like me to lose track of dates.

Olivia gave him a pitying look and then turned to Rose. “I must apologize for my brother, he is not usually so slow-minded.”

Rose smiled but did not look at Alexander. “No apology needed.”

“How was Glassley?” Alexander asked, hoping to change the subject before an awkward silence could fill the room.

“It was lovely. The Dowager Duchess decided to host a ball, and I danced all night.”