Page 59 of A Bargain with the Rakish Duke
Beatrice felt a thrill at his words. “Thank you, Kenneth. That means a lot coming from you.”
They continued their tour, the conversation flowing easily between them. Kenneth pointed out a portrait of a woman with a serene expression, her eyes seeming to follow them as they moved.
“She was a distant relative,” he explained. “The artist captured her elegance perfectly. What do you think about this one?”
Beatrice tilted her head, studying the portrait. “Hmmm. I would add a bit more light to it to bring out the depth of her eyes.”
Kenneth’s hand tightened around hers. “I have no doubt you could. You have an incredible eye for detail.”
As they reached the end of the gallery, Beatrice turned to Kenneth, her eyes shining with admiration. “Thank you for showing me this, Kenneth. It’s incredible.”
He nodded, a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “I’m glad you appreciate it.”
They stood there, surrounded by the timeless beauty of the paintings, a new understanding forming between them.
An understanding that something deeper was blossoming.
Chapter Nineteen
“Welcome. I’m so delighted you could join me today,” the Dowager Duchess of Newden greeted them warmly, her eyes twinkling with mischief as they entered her parlor.
The parlor was adorned with rich draperies and ornate furnishings, the perfect backdrop for the painting that took center stage. The light from the tall windows glanced off the canvas, drawing Kenneth’s attention immediately.
Beatrice smiled, curtsying gracefully. “Thank you for the invitation, Duchess. We’re honored to be here.”
The Dowager Duchess waved a hand dismissively. “Oh, nonsense, my dear. It’s I who am honored to have such a lovely couple grace my home. Now, do come and see the new Westback painting. It’s quite extraordinary.”
She led them to the painting. Kenneth stood before it, his breath catching in his throat.
The play of light and shadow, the intricate details of the coast, and the delicate brushstrokes that captured the essence of the scene—all of it spoke to him on a profound level.
“How do you find it, Duke?” the Dowager Duchess asked, standing beside him with a warm smile.
“This is a significant improvement,” Kenneth observed, his voice tinged with awe. “The light and shadows are far more balanced. This is the work of an artist who truly evolves.”
The Dowager Duchess beamed with pleasure. “I’m glad you think so. Lady Bernmere and I were just discussing how talented this Westback fellow is. Such a mystery, though, don’t you think? He continues to be mysterious, not disclosing where this beach is. He must love riddles, this artist.”
Kenneth nodded, noticing a man on horseback in the background. The figure was small, almost an afterthought, yet it added a layer of depth and mystery to the scene.
Turning to Beatrice, the Dowager Duchess asked, “And what about you, Duchess? What do you think of the painting?”
Beatrice, who had been staring at Kenneth with an unreadable emotion in her eyes, stepped forward. “I believe it doesn’t truly matter where this beach is,” she began, her voice soft but clear.“What matters is where it transports each viewer. The emotions it evokes, the memories it stirs. That’s the true beauty of art.”
The Dowager Duchess clapped her hands in delight. “Beautifully said! You have such a keen eye and a way with words. Doesn’t she, Duke?”
Kenneth, captivated by Beatrice’s words and the depth of her understanding, simply nodded. “Indeed.”
The Dowager Duchess’s eyes sparkled with mirth. “I must say, you two make quite the pair. Tell me, how are you finding married life? Lady Bernmere and I are always eager for a bit of gossip.”
Beatrice glanced at Kenneth, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. “It’s been… an adjustment, Duchess. But we’re learning more about each other every day.”
The Dowager Duchess smiled knowingly. “Of course, of course. Marriage is always a learning experience. Speaking of which, Thomas and Catherine are so excited about the upcoming addition to the family. I don’t suppose you have any similar news to share?”
Beatrice’s blush deepened, and Kenneth cleared his throat uncomfortably. “No, Duchess. We’re… we’re taking things one step at a time.”
The Dowager Duchess waved her hand, chuckling. “Ah, well, there’s no rush. But do keep me informed, won’t you? I do so love good news.”
Sensing the couple’s discomfort, she changed the subject. “Now, shall we have some tea and discuss this painting further? I’m curious to hear more of your thoughts, Duchess.”
