Page 66 of A Bargain with the Rakish Duke
Beatrice nodded, a grin spreading across her face. “That sounds perfect, Mrs. Potts. Thank you so much.”
As Mrs. Potts set about preparing the picnic basket, Beatrice made her way to Kenneth’s study. She paused outside the door, taking a deep breath before knocking softly.
“Come in,” his voice called from within.
Beatrice stepped inside, her eyes taking a moment to adjust to the slightly dimmer light.
Kenneth sat at his desk, surrounded by ledgers and papers, his brow furrowed in concentration. He looked up as she entered, his expression softening at the sight of her.
“Beatrice,” he said with a hint of surprise in his voice, “is everything all right?”
She smiled, moving closer to the desk. “Everything is wonderful, actually. I was hoping you might join me for a walk on the beach. Mrs. Potts is preparing a picnic lunch for us.”
Kenneth glanced at the papers scattered across his desk, a flicker of hesitation in his eyes. But as he looked back at her, at the hopeful expression on her face, his resolve melted.
“A walk and a picnic sound lovely,” he said, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Just give me a moment to tidy up here.”
Beatrice watched as he gathered the papers, stacking them neatly and setting them aside. There was something endearing about the way he moved, the careful precision of his actions.
As he stood up, offering her his arm, Beatrice felt a warmth spread through her. This was a side of Kenneth she was just beginning to know, a side that was relaxed and open.
They made their way to the kitchen, where Mrs. Potts had a large wicker basket waiting for them. She handed it to Kenneth with a knowing smile.
“Enjoy your picnic, Your Graces. And don’t forget to bring back the basket when you’re done!”
Beatrice laughed, thanking Mrs. Potts once again before they set off. The walk to the sea was pleasant, the sun warm on their faces and the breeze carrying the scent of salt and wildflowers.
As they neared the shore, Beatrice took a deep breath, the familiar sight of the waves crashing against the sand filling her with a sense of peace. She turned to Kenneth, her eyes bright.
“I’ve been wanting to spend more time here,” she explained, gesturing to the sprawling beach before them. “It helps me capture the essence of the sea in my paintings. There’ssomething about the way the light glances off the water, the way the colors shift with each passing hour.”
Kenneth nodded, following her gaze. “I can see why it captivates you. It’s a view that never gets old, no matter how many times you see it.”
They found a spot near the dunes, spreading out a soft blanket from the basket. As they unpacked the food, Beatrice couldn’t help but marvel at the spread Mrs. Potts had prepared. There were slices of cold roast beef, wedges of sharp cheese, crusty bread still warm from the oven, and a variety of fresh fruits.
But it was the lemon tarts that caught Kenneth’s eye. A boyish grin spread across his face as he reached for one. “Mrs. Potts certainly knows my weaknesses.” He chuckled, taking a bite of the tart and closing his eyes in appreciation.
Beatrice watched him, a fondness blooming in her chest. It was rare to see him so unguarded, so openly enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
They ate at a leisurely pace, their conversation flowing easily from art to literature to childhood memories.
“Tell me more about your childhood adventures,” Kenneth said, his eyes sparkling with curiosity as he reached for another slice of bread. “I want to know everything about the young Beatrice.”
Beatrice laughed, her cheeks flushing slightly. “Oh, I was quite the troublemaker, I’m afraid. Always getting into scrapes and giving my poor governess heart palpitations.”
Kenneth grinned, leaning forward. “I can hardly imagine you as a troublemaker,” he teased, his voice lowering to a murmur. “Although, come to think of it, I’m not surprised at all. You’ve been driving me insane since the day we met.”
Beatrice playfully smacked his arm, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Well, someone has to keep you on your toes, husband. We can’t have you getting too comfortable now, can we?”
He chuckled, the warmth in his eyes growing. “And you do it so well, my dear. I daresay you’re more effective than any of my advisors at keeping me on my toes.” He reached out, boldly tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear. “Now, do tell me about your youthful exploits. I’m all ears.”
A shiver ran down her spine at his touch.
She leaned in, a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Well, there was the time I decided I was going to climb the tallest tree in our garden. I was convinced I could see all the way to London from up there,” she revealed, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.
Kenneth raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing on his lips. “And did you? Perhaps you caught a glimpse of a dashing young duke in the distance?”
Beatrice grinned ruefully. “I’m afraid not though that would have been quite the sight. I never made it that far. About halfway up, I lost my footing and fell. Broke my arm in two places.”
