Page 46 of The Duke Meets His Match

“It no longer matters. We have both married earls who are not bothered by Jonathan Miller’s crimes. Even Huntingdon, as an art critic who’d been duped by Father, no longer cares,” Eliza said.

Chloe didn’t want to admit the truth. Michael wasn’t overly concerned about their father’s corruption, either. He’d been initially more concerned about her sins. But now that she’d told him she was no longer interested in Henry, she didn’t believe Michael cared much about her past. A deeply buried part of her wanted to confess everything to her sisters, but she had kept the truth to herself for so long she couldn’t find the courage to blurt it out now. Where would she even start?

I picked pockets and sold goods to an infamous brothel owner so that I could help pay for my medicine.

Then there was her most recent transgression. I also lost my virginity and spent an earth-shattering afternoon in the Duke of Cameron’s bed.

She wasn’t certain which would be more shocking.

“I’ve thought of a perfect distraction for the duke and have invited Lady Willowby to join us again Friday evening. My tactic worked when we all attended Vauxhall Gardens.”

Chloe’s heart sank. Lady Willowby would come? She would have to watch the attractive lady flirt with Michael. How could she get through the evening?

Amelia was watching her closely. “You don’t seem excited, Chloe. In fact, you look rather…melancholy.” Chloe squirmed beneath Amelia’s gaze. As the artist, Amelia was by far the most perceptive.

“I know what it is,” Eliza said.

Chloe looked at Eliza in surprise.

Eliza gave her a look of sympathy mingled with worry. “Chloe’s been having nightmares again.”

Nightmares? Chloe stared wordlessly at her sisters, her heart pounding. “How do you know?”

Eliza patted her hand. “I’ve heard you at night.”

“I thought it had been years,” Amelia said. “Perhaps a physician can help.”

Summoning the physician was the last thing Chloe wanted. He’d order a tincture of laudanum, and Chloe hated the lethargic effects of the drug.

“No. A physician isn’t necessary. I’ve been sleeping better. I also have a good feeling that after your gathering, things will improve.”

“Are you certain?” Eliza asked.

“Without a doubt. Please don’t worry.”

Everything would be settled Friday evening. She’d patiently explain to Henry that they weren’t well suited. He’d understand and would turn his efforts elsewhere. As for Michael, she’d be careful to never be alone with him again, and this madness between them would end once and for all.

All would be well. It had to be.

Chapter Sixteen

Chloe made her way to the kitchens, where she spotted the cook, Mary, taking a tray of scones out of the oven and setting them on a rack to cool.

“Good afternoon,” Chloe said.

Mary straightened at the sight of Chloe standing in the doorway. “Is there anything you need, Miss Chloe?” Although Mary was only a few years older than Chloe, the crow's-feet around her eyes and her graying hair made her appear a decade older.

“May I have a word in private?” Chloe asked.

A moment of unease flashed across Mary’s face and she wiped her hands on her apron. “If this is about last night’s meal, I apologize about the goose. I know it’s a greasy bird, but—”

“The meal was delicious. I want to ask your husband a few questions.”

“My husband?”

“Yes, about the war.” Chloe recalled Alice telling her that the cook’s husband had difficulties after the war, and the information had drawn her to the kitchens today.

Mary’s face fell. “I don’t know. Ben hasn’t been himself since his return.”