Page 48 of A Bargain with the Rakish Duke
Bile rose to Beatrice’s throat. She knew all too well the value of secrets in their society, the way they could be bought and sold and used as weapons.
Lord Eastfold sat back, his demeanor shifting back to one of polite interest. “But enough about that. Tell me, what did youthink of Westback’s latest piece? The one with the stormy sea and the golden light breaking through the clouds?”
Beatrice forced a smile, trying to calm the racing of her heart. “It was stunning,” she replied, her voice sounding distant to her own ears. “The use of light was masterful. The emotion it evokes is… powerful.”
As Eastfold launched into a detailed analysis of the painting, Beatrice barely heard him. Her mind was racing, scenarios of exposure and ruin playing in her head.
The footman entered with the tea, and Beatrice poured a cup for each of them. As they sipped their tea, they continued their animated conversation about art, discussing various artists, techniques, and the latest trends in the art world.
Lord Eastfold leaned in slightly, his expression earnest. “It’s rare to find someone who shares such a deep appreciation for art. His Grace is fortunate to have a wife with such refined taste.”
Beatrice blushed at the compliment. “Thank you, My Lord. It’s a passion of mine, one that I hope to indulge in more now that I’m here at Dunford.”
“I have no doubt you will,” he said warmly. “And if you ever wish to see some pieces I’ve acquired, I would be delighted to show you. Perhaps we could arrange a visit to my gallery in London.”
Beatrice’s eyes sparkled with interest. “I would love that. Thank you for?—”
The door to the parlor opened abruptly, and Kenneth strode in, his expression cool and collected.
“Where exactly were you planning on taking my wife?” he asked, his tone deceptively calm.
Chapter Fifteen
“What’s going on here?” Kenneth asked, his voice steady but tense.
Beatrice turned to him with a serene smile. “Lord Eastfold arrived earlier than planned, so I kept him company while he waited for you.”
Kenneth’s jaw tightened slightly at the friendly rapport between them. “I see,” he said curtly. “Shall we move to my study to discuss our business privately, Lord Eastfold?”
Beatrice, sensing the sudden shift in his demeanor, interjected, “Lord Eastfold was just telling me about some fascinating pieces in his collection. I’m quite envious of his knowledge and eye for art.”
Eastfold grinned, clearly enjoying the compliment. “Her Grace is too kind. But I must say, Your Grace, you are lucky to havesuch an art enthusiast for a wife. We’ve had quite the delightful conversation.”
Kenneth forced a tight smile, biting back a retort. “Indeed. Beatrice has a keen eye for beauty.”
Eastfold chuckled, looking at Beatrice. “She mentioned that she hopes to see your collection someday. I am surprised you haven’t shown it to her yet.”
Kenneth nodded, his tone clipped. “Perhaps one day. Shall we, Lord Eastfold?”
Beatrice, sensing the tension, smiled warmly at Eastfold. “Will you be staying for dinner, My Lord? I’d love to hear more about your recent acquisitions.”
Eastfold looked as though he was about to accept, his eyes twinkling with genuine pleasure. “I would love to, Your Grace. It’s not every day I get to discuss art with someone so knowledgeable.”
Kenneth quickly interjected, his patience wearing thin. “The Viscount must be quite busy. We shouldn’t keep him.”
Eastfold glanced between them, understanding the unspoken command. “Of course,” he agreed with a polite nod. “It was a delight to meet you, Your Grace.” Standing up, he took Beatrice’s hand and kissed it again, his eyes lingering on hers. “I hope we can continue our conversation another time,” he said warmly.
Beatrice laughed lightly, clearly enjoying the exchange. “I look forward to it, My Lord.”
Kenneth, feeling his control slipping, practically dragged the Viscount away from her, leading him towards his study. As they walked through the hall, Kenneth glanced back over his shoulder and saw Beatrice heading towards the morning room.
He felt a twinge of regret as he remembered their passionate night together. The desire to follow her and repeat their intimate encounter was almost overwhelming, but he forced himself to focus on the business at hand. There would be time for that later, he promised himself, even as the image of her, bathed in the soft morning light, was seared in his mind.
Once inside his study, he closed the door behind them with a firm click, shutting out the light-hearted atmosphere of the parlor. The room was dimly lit, the heavy drapes drawn against the afternoon sun, creating an intimate, almost conspiratorial ambiance.
Eastfold took a seat, his eyes gleaming with amusement. “I must say, Kenneth, I’m quite surprised to hear that you got married. I had to see it for myself. Given up your rakish ways, haven’t you?”
Kenneth shrugged, a faint smile playing on his lips. “We all have to grow up sometime, Robert.”
