He was correct in a way, as she had said these things and hadn’t exactly clarified what they meant. But she also thought that he was being purposefully obtuse!
In fact, from the way he was smiling at her, forever cocky and self-assured, she got the distinct impression that he was toying with her. Having fun seeing her upset.
“So, I was right. You have been avoiding me,” she huffed.
He shrugged. “Not exactly. I have just been busy with work, that’s all. Have you needed something? Has there been anything you required that you have not been able to find or been shown to?”
“Well, no. In that regard, I have been fine.”
He laughed softly and walked deeper into the room. She was still seated, which was a mistake, because he came at her in a way that made him tower over her. She reared back, thinking to stand but not wanting to make it seem that he was having any effect on her.
“I see,” he sighed and shook his head. “You have missed me.”
“Do not be absurd,” she scoffed and folded her arms.
He was standing over her, and she was forced to look up at him.
“Are you sure about that?” His blue eyes twinkled in the morning light. “I confess, I did not consider how attached to me you might become. My fault, really, for being so charming.”
She snorted. “Is that what you think you are?”
“You tell me.”
She attempted to glare at him, wanting him to see how ridiculous he was being. But it was a weak thing, unable to batter through the charm and confidence he exuded as if they seeped from his pores like body odor.
Suddenly, Helena was feeling rather hot. She squirmed uncomfortably, forcing herself not to look away even though she wanted to. He continued to look at her, a smile in his eyes, a knowingness behind them as if he could read her mind.
If he can do it, might he let me know what I am thinking, at least? It would certainly make things clearer!
And then the Duke broke the silence like a hammer smashing into a pane of glass.
“I have good news for you!” he declared, spinning on his heel and striding across the room. “News I hope will solve all your woes.”
She balked, taking a deep breath as she came back to herself. “News? What news?”
He reached the door and spun about, flashing his eyes mischievously. “We have been invited to a garden party this evening. Which means that…” He looked at the window, furrowing his brow. “We ought to leave just after noon, I think. Yes, that will do nicely.”
“What!” she cried. “A garden party? Today?”
“That is correct,” he said. “It has been a week since we got married, and we must be seen together, dear wife. Confirming for all how wonderfully in love we are and all that. You know…” Another wink. “As per our agreement.”
“You cannot be—why did you not tell me?” She was out of her chair, caught between racing for her wardrobe and… and…
She wasn’t even sure.
“I am telling you now,” he told her rightly. “We leave just after noon.” He turned to leave, but then paused and looked back at her, his smile growing. “Oh, and Helena. Although there’s no need to say it, I suppose I must. I expect you to look your best, worthy of a duchess. It will be expected.”
Her mouth hung open, shock and surprise rippling through her.
The Duke bowed and ducked out of the room, leaving her alone to grapple with what was a most strange interaction. One that she had no idea how to feel about.
But then again, as she was starting to learn, that was rather common where her marriage was concerned.
CHAPTER 8
“Have I told you how beautiful you look?” the Duke asked.
Helena started at the comment, caught by surprise. And for good reason.
