Page 25 of Not the Duke's Virgin

* * *

Making his way to the grand foyer, Simon called for his butler, Mr. Graves.

The dutiful butler promptly appeared. “Your Grace, how may I be of service?”

“Graves, kindly assess whether all is ready for this evening’s events. I want no detail overlooked that could impact the experience of our esteemed guests,” Simon instructed.

Bowing slightly, Graves replied, “Of course, Your Grace. I shall conduct a thorough inspection immediately.”

As his butler hurried off, Simon wandered into the ornate drawing room, surveying the space. Footmen were busy arranging furnishings to optimal positions for conversation circles and refreshments. Simon noticed that the red damask curtains appeared slightly faded.

“Andrews,” Simon addressed one of the senior footmen. “See that these curtains are replaced with the emerald brocade drapes immediately.”

“Right away, Your Grace,” Andrews responded before heading off to execute his master’s order.

Satisfied so far, Simon continued his rounds, scrutinizing every aspect from the lighting to the floral arrangements. In the dining room, he sampled the menu options for the evening, suggesting a heavier soup alongside a lighter basil bisque. The kitchen staff hurried to oblige their demanding master.

Simon knew expectations for a party hosted by a duke were high. He would accept nothing less than perfection. Fortunately, years spent fastidiously attending his father’s extravagant social events had well prepared him to organize tonight’s affair.

After thoroughly surveying the ballroom being prepared for dancing later, Simon took a turn about the gallery. Pausing before a painting of his father, a pang of sadness momentarily tempered his detachment. His presence was sorely missed, especially now as he prepared to welcome potential new family members. If only…

“Your taste in decor has improved, I see.” A mocking voice jolted Simon out of his reverie.

Turning, he saw Oliver strolling toward him, whiskey tumbler already in hand.

“I keep abreast of the latest styles,” Simon replied coolly. “Our guests expect nothing less.”

“Of course,” Oliver drawled, glancing at the newly hung paintings with disinterest. “Appearances above all else.”

Simon bristled slightly at the implication. “And how would you have us present ourselves? In threadbare furnishings and peeling wallpaper?”

Oliver shrugged, taking a long sip of whiskey. “Simply making an observation, Brother. Play the Duke however you wish.”

Clenching his jaw at the condescending tone, Simon changed topic. “The house looks well, I believe. What brought you here?”

“I noticed Percival stopped by,” Oliver said casually, but his green eyes remained fixed on Simon’s face. “Rather an odd time for a social visit with your solicitor, is it not?”

Keeping his expression neutral, Simon replied, “We are friends as well as business associates. I merely thought to invite him this evening.”

“How gracious of you,” Oliver said, swirling his tumbler pensively. “Though Percival has never seemed the party type.”

Simon shrugged. “I supposed a change of pace might do him good. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I must?—”

“Not so fast,” Oliver interrupted, stepping closer as his eyes narrowed in suspicion. “Percival looked unusually tense when I passed him on the stairs. Now, why would that be, I wonder?”

Maintaining an air of nonchalance with effort, Simon countered, “You know how anxious Percival can get over the smallest matters. I’m sure it’s nothing.”

“Hmm, perhaps,” Oliver said, though he still appeared unconvinced. Downing the rest of his drink, he moved toward the door. “Well, I best make myself presentable for my dear Lady Victoria’s arrival.” Pausing, he glanced back. “I shall be keeping close watch over her tonight. Lady Victoria is rather… precious to me. See that she is treated appropriately.”

“Of course,” Simon replied with a cordial smile that did not reach his eyes.

With a last warning look, Oliver departed.

Alone again, Simon allowed himself a small scowl of frustration. His cagey brother suspected there was more afoot than an impromptu guest list addition. He would need to take extra care around Oliver this evening.

Resuming his inspection, Simon eventually ended up back at the foyer just as Graves approached with his report.

“All is in order, Your Grace. The household staff awaits only your final approval,” the butler declared with proper dignity.

---