Page 81 of Untaming Lady Violet
Misplaced sentiments revolving around duty and loyalty to the family name had ensured Violet’s cooperation for too long. Now, she would do as she pleased. And damn the consequences.
Steeling herself for an ugly confrontation, Violet watched Bridgette crack the door open. Murmuring around the doorjamb to the person seeking entry, the maid finally stepped back with a tiny curtsy.
Grace breezed into the room, clad in a shimmering gown of dark bronze silk. Gloves dyed a precise match completed the ensemble and, on her wrist, a gold bracelet crafted with tiny bees and sprigs of heather sparkled.
The duchess smiled at Violet, coming forward to take her hands.
“I’ve no wish to intrude but would it be possible that we speak privately?”
“Of course, Your Grace.” Violet waited until Bridgette exited the room and motioned for Grace to join her near the fireplace.
Carrot emerged from his favorite hiding place behind the floor-length drapes. He streaked toward Grace, his funny, crooked tail held high, the end curled as tight as a question mark.
“Please, you know you may call me by my given name.” Grace scooped the creature up and nuzzled him. “Even if it is not the proper thing.”
Carrot meowed, butting his head against Grace’s chin. Violet could not help but smile. Her standoffish kitten rarely showed affection to strangers.
Once they were perched upon a rose-hued settee, Grace set Carrot down between them, laughing softly when he began attacking the tassels of a small accent pillow. “I’ve heard the story of how you acquired this adorable creature.”
“Longleigh remains unconvinced of Carrot’s sweet nature. He encouraged me to leave him behind in the stables, so I imagine his view on the subject is hardly complimentary.” A pang of jealousy nipped Violet as she wondered when Tristan and Grace found time to discuss her kitten.
“Celia’s version was very amusing.” Grace’s tone was understanding. It was as though she knew Violet’s terseness could be soothed once it was clarified she’d not engaged Tristan in a private conversation.
Ashamed of her own suspicious nature, Violet blushed. “Forgive me for the sharpness of my words. I’m afraid this afternoon has set me on edge just a bit.”
“That is understandable,” Grace sighed. “What a tangle that was! The duke is nursing a sore jaw, courtesy of a stray swing by Tristan. Oh, of course, it was not done purposefully, and Tristan apologized profusely. Were you aware Lord Gadley was forced to leave Darby Meadows? It’s true. Before he and your father locked themselves away in the library, Tristan tasked Nicholas with making sure that man was escorted off the property.”
Violet’s lips tightened. “What could the viscount and my father have to discuss? I’ve not agreed to marry Longleigh.”
“Which is why I’ve come to talk with you.” Grace took Violet’s hands. “It must seem awkward, my giving you advice, especially since everyone knows Tristan pursued me before my marriage. His interest was misplaced then, and I hope it’s clear he has no romantic inclinations for me, or any other woman for that matter.”
Violet’s head tilted in confusion.
Grace giggled in her enchanting way. “My goodness, that certainly did not come out the way I intended. Obviously, he is interested in one woman. That man is completely entranced by you, Violet. I swear, when he speaks of you, or if your name is mentioned, his entire being lights up. It’s the same adoration I see when I catch Nicholas staring at me.” A dreamy expression drifted over her features.
“Richeforte loves you madly. It can’t possibly be the same, Grace.” Violet stroked Carrot’s soft fur. She hoped Grace would not notice the sadness in her voice. “It isn’t the same. I know it’s not.”
“Trust me, my dear. Tristan Buchanan loves you. Having experienced the fullest depths of that emotion with the duke, I recognize the signs. He adores you.” Grace’s caramel-hued eyes sparkled with kindness. “Do not throw away a lifetime of joy in sacrifice to your pride.”
“Too many obstacles block a happy conclusion to our association. My parents and their debt, the extent of which I’ve only learned a few hours ago. There’s Lord Gadley.” Violet’s voice turned bitter. “And Lady Fiona, of course.”
Grace’s laughter was sly, her eyes glinting mischievously. “There’s no need to concern yourself over that one. Not only have I given Fiona the cut direct, but Richeforte informed Lady Blackerby that should her daughter even glance in Longleigh’s direction, he would call in Lord Blackerby’s gambling debts. No one dares question my husband when it comes to such matters. Indeed, even I’ve found it best not to pry.”
“Perhaps if Tristan himself dissuaded Lady Fiona …” Violet started almost angrily before taking a deep breath. “Oh, what does it matter? Grace, I appreciate your kindness and that of the duke, but the fact remains Longleigh has no wish to marry. While I concede he may not want Fiona as his bride, he certainly does not want me, either. He has said as much several times. He will never sacrifice himself for me. Or for love. He only presses the matter now as a way of appeasing his father.”
“You’ve much to learn of Tristan’s nature, Violet.” Grace’s head shook with exasperation for Violet’s stubbornness. “There is not a soul alive capable of making that man do something against his wishes. Lord Darby will be very happy to see him wed, but Tristan follows his own course.You,Violet, you are his course.”
Placing her arm around Violet’s shoulders, Grace gave her a warm squeeze. “I suspect Tristan said some hurtful things to you. Unfortunately, men can be blind to what is in their hearts, and that makes them behave quite stupidly. I told him once he would find his own true love someday. Now, he just has to believe it. Please, Violet. I know it is difficult to see, but do not deny the love you share with him. You desperately need each other.”
Chapter 32
Nerves jangling with anxiety, Violet entered the dining room once the majority of guests had already taken their seats.
Tristan and Lord Everstone were not in attendance. Lady Fiona and Violet’s own mother were also conspicuously missing, although Lady Blackerby was there. The older woman gave Violet a tiny, apologetic nod before glancing away in quiet shame. No doubt her daughter’s actions had caused much consternation.
Violet fully expected Fiona would be present. If nothing else, the other girl could gloat over Violet’s disgrace.
The meal’s seating arrangements would surely result in further gossip. It was certainly a dramatic statement, and with it, there could be no doubt as to Violet’s acceptance into the Buchanan family.
