Page 62 of Trapped with the Beastly Duke

“I believe that there could be an opportunity at Emberly.” Alexander met Rose’s gaze, and she could see the question in his eyes.

Do you wish me to offer this to them?

She nodded imperceptibly as she surveyed the Whitstones. They both looked taken aback.

Rose met Lady Whitstone’s gaze and widened her smile as she said, “Oh, I had quite forgotten that Reverand Thatcher has retired. That is a wonderful idea, dearest!”

The Whitstones relaxed, the worry replaced by a tentative hope as Alexander said, “The parsonage is in good repair, but I would have him visit first, to see if the parish is to his liking. Then, if he is happy, I shall make the arrangements and would ask that he advise me about any improvements he may wish to make to the building.”

Lady Whitstone seemed to be searching Alexander’s face for some hidden meaning. “I am sure William will not wish to make any great changes. He is rather sensible.”

“I am sure he is. Yet, he will bear a heavy responsibility, and I would see that he does so without wanting for anything. The parsonage should feel like his home.” Alexander looked thoughtful.

A beat passed as Lady Whitsone seemed to come to some decision. She smiled at Alexander—a genuine and kind smile. And Rose knew that she was seeing the real him.

“We shall never forget this most generous gift, Your Grace. And I thank you, most earnestly.”

“There is no need to thank me.” Alexander gave a small smile. “It is simply fortunate timing. As my wife mentioned, we have recently had a vacancy, and this has saved me many months of trouble.”

Rose beamed at the Whitstones, and out of the corner of her eye, she noticed Miss Carstairs watching their interaction. She looped an arm through Alexander’s and nudged him slightly.

That will allow Miss Carstairs to better see the Whitstones and Alexander.

“If your son is to live at the parsonage, you must come visit us at Emberly,” Rose offered, ensuring that her voice was not so loud but that it would carry.

“Indeed. We would welcome your company, should your son decide to take up the position.” Alexander nodded.

“Your Grace, you are too kind.” Lord Whitstone bowed. “We are most grateful.”

“Indeed. I shall write to William as soon as possible and let him know the good news.” Lady Whitstone clasped her husband’s arm, her excitement evident.

“Think nothing of it.” Rose glanced over Lady Whitstone’s shoulder. “I fear we have kept you to ourselves for far too long. Pray, forgive us.”

She gently guided Alexander away from the Whitstones, scanning the crowd for familiar faces. Across the room, she spotted her mother and the Dowager Duchess deep in conversation with Lady Humphries.

Is Lady Humphries the one who was recently widowed or is it Lady Bately?

“Did you know their son was looking for a placement?” Alexander’s breath tickled her ear.

Rose suppressed a shiver and a smile. “Yes.”

“And that is why you suggested we speak to them?” Alexander cocked his head.

Rose nodded. “As Mother says, you must know what it is you offer. We had a placement we need to fill, they have a son who needs a parsonage. This way, we all win, and we have a family who will remember your kindness.”

Alexander looked thoughtful. “But we only have one parsonage. We cannot offer everyone such a thing.”

“Indeed. Yet, we have more to offer.” Rose made her way towards a small group of people on the edge of the dance floor.

“And this is all part of your attempt to control the rumors?” Alexander’s voice was soft, barely audible even at their close proximity.

“Yes.” Rose glanced around them.

There were still eyes following them, but she could tell who had spoken to the Whitstones and who hadn’t. The majority clearly had not, as there were still surprised and suspicious glances.

That will change before the end of the night.

Over the next hour and a half, Rose and Alexander spoke to the Davenports and discussed the various ways in which one could entertain children.