Page 90 of His Forbidden Duchess
Hannah’s hand covered hers, warm and reassuring. “Eloise, youareworth it. And if Felix cannot see that, then he is the one who needs to change, not you.”
After a moment, Hannah gave her a gentle nudge. “You know,” she said with a small smile, “if you ever need a reminder, I would be more than happy to stand in the middle of London and shout your praises for all the world to hear.”
Eloise laughed, a genuine laugh that felt like the first in ages. “I have no doubt that you would.”
The following afternoon, Eloise sat in the morning room, her eyes drifting over the lush gardens visible through the window.
Hannah sat opposite with a book open on her lap, her mind engrossed in romance.
One no doubt happier than my own.
“Viscount Kaylocke, Your Grace,” the butler intoned, appearing at the doorway silently. “Here to see His Grace.”
Eloise exchanged a quick glance with Hannah. It had been over a week since Felix had left, and she doubted Stephen was unawareof that fact. At Felix’s request, she had not seen him since the ball, but now, she supposed she had little choice.
Eloise managed a polite smile, nodding to the butler. “Show him in, please.”
Stephen entered with his usual charming smile, his gaze sweeping the room before settling on Eloise.
“Your Grace, it is a pleasure to see you again,” he said, bowing. “And, of course, Lady Hannah.” He greeted her with a respectful nod though Eloise didn’t miss the flash of surprise in his eyes at her presence.
Hannah rose with a polite smile. “Lord Kaylocke, what a delight. I trust your journey here was pleasant?”
“Very,” he replied, looking between the two of them as he took a seat. “Though I confess, I had rather hoped to see His Grace. Is he still in London?”
Eloise felt the familiar pang of frustration but kept her expression neutral. “Yes, he is taking care of business,” she replied though she could see Stephen’s curiosity hadn’t been satisfied.
“Ah, I see,” he said. “Unfortunate timing on my part, then. But if I may, I would be honored to share a few moments with you both. Excuse my boldness, but if I were the Duke, I would not be able to pry myself away from such a beautiful place.”
Hannah nodded graciously as Eloise signaled to the maid to bring in the tea tray. The three settled around the low table, and as they poured their tea, Stephen leaned back, seeming to take in the entire room, as if searching for something.
Eloise watched him carefully though she had little energy for entertainment.
“This estate is remarkable,” he said, looking directly at Eloise. “Kingswell suits you, Your Grace. I would say it matches your elegance.”
Eloise thanked him politely, but the compliment felt too deliberate, too close to home, and she fidgeted uncomfortably. Beside her, Hannah arched an eyebrow, hiding a smirk behind her teacup.
“So,” Hannah began, breaking the silence as she poured a second cup of tea, “how long have you known His Grace, Lord Kaylocke?”
“Oh, we met only recently,” he replied. “Both times were under rather unfortunate circumstances, I am afraid.”
“Unfortunate?” Hannah asked, looking to Stephen then to Eloise.
Eloise nodded. “My husband is not fond of unscheduled visits, and unfortunately, Stephen was unaware. The second meeting was at Lady Brimsleigh’s ball, of course.”
“Ah yes,” Hannah said, nodding her head.
Eloise squirmed again, the memory of that night dancing before her eyes.
That was the night when everything had changed between herself and Felix… before it all changed again. That was the night he had shown her what true pleasure was.
She imagined the sting on her backside again, the long-lasting reminder of hisconsequences.
“Yes,” he agreed, his gaze lingering on Eloise just a beat too long. “One could only hope that he recognizes what a treasure he has in his duchess.”
Eloise felt a faint warmth in her cheeks, uncomfortable under his scrutiny, but Hannah was quick to reply. “Oh, no need to worry about Eloise, Lord Kaylocke. She is more than capable of holding her own.”
“Indeed,” he replied, his mouth curving in a small, unreadable smile, “I am sure you are, Your Grace.”
