Page 4 of The Duke’s Bloody Bargain

“Then it’s starvation.” Irene grabbed Lucy from under her arms and pulled, only to fall over and end up on the floor. “I can’t carry her to the sofa.”

Just the thought of lifting Lucy and carrying her sent shudders crawling along my skin. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologise.”

I picked a cushion from the sofa and handed it to Irene.

She placed it under Lucy’s head. “Can’t we do anything to help her? This poor woman is too weak.”

“I’ll make sure she receives supplies, and I’ll find a physician for her.”

Lucy blinked, a hand on her temple. “Oh, dear. I’m sorry.”

Irene helped her sit upright. “Are you ill?”

“It’s nothing.” She grimaced. “I’ve been tired for the past few weeks. I’m behind with my work.” She slowly picked herself up with Irene’s help.

“What do you do for a living?” Irene led her to the sofa.

“I’m a seamstress. I mostly do mending, but I earn the little I need.”

Irene stared at me. I knew that stare. It begged me to do something for Lucy.

I clasped my hands behind my back. “You’re welcome to come with us to Raven Hall. You’ll be taken good care of.”

Colour returned to Lucy’s cheeks. “That’s generous of you, Your Grace.”

“Ravenhill, please.”

She didn’t soften. “But whatever the nature of the argument you had with my brother is, it prevents me from accepting your offer. I believe Nathaniel wouldn’t be happy if I left my home, especially since getting it back from Knight must have cost him a lot.”

It hadn’t cost Graves anything. Darius, my best friend and wizard of the Dark Court, had done all the work.

“Would Graves be happy to know you’re starving and fainting?” I asked.

“Alex.” Irene glowered.

What had I said wrong?

Lucy showed the same shocked expression as Irene did.

I continued. “The offer still stands. If you change your mind, let us know.”

“Thank you.” She didn’t sound grateful but worried. “But I’m fine.”

I insisted. “I can ask one of the maids in Raven Hall to come here if you want.”

“That won’t be necessary. Thank you. I’m fine.” Lucy’s tone was flat.

I was trying to help her, but I thought she held a grudge against me about her brother. Peace and harmony my arse.

I flexed my fingers. “Miss Graves, we came here for you and we’re ready to help.”

“But I don’t need help.”

A moment of tense silence stretched.

“It’s time to go.” Irene slowly slid her arm through mine, and the contact sobered me with its sweetness. “Thank you for the tea. And there’s no need to escort us out.”