Page 42 of A Bargain with the Rakish Duke
The conversation shifted, and for a moment, it seemed as though the argument had been forgotten.
But as the meal continued, the underlying tension between Kenneth and Beatrice simmered just below the surface.
“I heard you’re considering some new projects, husband. What are they?” Beatrice asked, trying to make conversation.
Kenneth glanced at her, his expression guarded. “Yes, there are several plans in the works. It’s a lot to manage.”
“Perhaps you could involve me in the decision-making,” Beatrice suggested, her tone hopeful.
Kenneth’s eyes flashed with annoyance. “The estate is my responsibility. I don’t need your help.”
Beatrice’s hands clenched at her sides. “I’m not trying to take over, Your Grace. I just want to be involved in our life here.”
“Our life here? Or do you meanmyresponsibilities?” Kenneth retorted, his voice rising slightly.
“Must you always be so controlling?” Beatrice snapped, her temper flaring.
“Must you always challenge me?” Kenneth shot back, his voice low and tense.
Lady Bernmere suddenly cleared her throat, drawing their attention. “You know, my dears, a little disagreement is perfectly normal in a marriage,” she said, her tone light and conversational. “Why, I remember when my dear late husband and I used to have the most spirited debates.”
Kenneth and Beatrice looked at her, their expressions shadowed with surprise and wariness.
Lady Bernmere continued, undeterred. “He would get so passionate about his opinions, and I, of course, would stand my ground. We could go on for hours, arguing about the most trivial things.” She chuckled, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “But do you know what we discovered? That the best part of arguing was the reconciliation afterwards.”
Beatrice’s eyes widened, a blush staining her cheeks at the implication. Kenneth coughed, nearly choking on his wine.
Lady Bernmere, oblivious to their discomfort, leaned forward conspiratorially. “There’s nothing quite like a heated argument to stir the blood if you know what I mean. And the reconciliation, well… let’s just say it’s worth every sharp word.”
Kenneth set his glass down with more force than necessary, the sound loud in the sudden silence. “Aunt Marjorie, I hardly think this is an appropriate topic for dinner conversation.”
Lady Bernmere waved a dismissive hand. “Oh, pish posh, Kenneth. We’re all adults here. And I’m merely trying to offer some sage advice to you and your lovely wife.”
Beatrice bristled at his tone, her own temper flaring. “There you go again, Kenneth. Always trying to control everything and everyone around you.”
He turned to her, his expression darkening. “I’m not trying to control anyone.”
“You are not? Throwing around orders like edicts is not controlling?” Beatrice scoffed, pushing back her chair and standing up abruptly.
Kenneth’s jaw clenched, his eyes flashing with anger. “Beatrice, sit down. You’re making a scene.”
She laughed humorlessly, shaking her head. “You see? There it is again. An order, not a request.” She threw her napkin on the table, her appetite completely gone. “I think I’ve lost my appetite. If you’ll excuse me.”
“Beatrice—” Kenneth began, but she stormed off, her heart pounding.
How dare he try to control everything? She was not some silent partner in this marriage.
As she reached the corridor, she heard his footsteps behind her.
“Beatrice, stop!” he called, his voice harsh.
She whirled around to face him. “What now, Duke? Have you come to order me back to the dining hall?”
Kenneth’s eyes blazed. “You were rude and insolent, walking out like that.”
“And you are domineering and inflexible!” she shot back. “Do you think you can control everything, even me?”
His patience snapped. “You challenge me at every turn. Do you think I enjoy this constant battle?”
