Page 77 of A Rescue by the Rakish Duke
“I didn’t want to disrupt your night with your friend.”
Damian sounded wary now. Or was he feeling guilty?
“You and Evan don’t get to decide that.”
“I’m sorry, Gwen.”
“I’m sorry, too, Your Grace,” she mumbled bitterly.
Then, she rose from her seat and quickly left the library. She might be tempted to listen to Damian again, but not at this early hour. She was going to her chamber to sleep.
Alone.
“You deserve happiness.”
Maybe not.
Chapter Twenty-Two
Despite the crisp air, the sun was shining bright, and the grass was dry. Gwendoline was thrilled about being able to enjoy both worlds—bright sun and cool air.
She wasn’t much of a warm-weather woman, even though lounging next to the hearth on a freezing night was always welcome, especially if it was with Damian.
Her already ruddy cheeks flushed at the thought of her naked husband kissing the length of her spine as they lay on a blanket not too far from the fire.
Something about Greyvale made her feel healthier than she ever had before. Damian always made sure that her favorite dishes were prepared by Cook, who was glad to please her mistress. The fresh air, so different from that of London, also nourished her mind, body, and soul.
Of course, there was Damian himself.
She didn’t know what exactly he thought of her, and if whatever they had was how it should be between married couples or simply a man and a woman who had found a way to live together. However, she enjoyed spending time with him. She felt safe with him.
She scanned Greyvale’s sprawling countryside. She could not get enough of its lush foliage, the greens and browns highlighting the brighter pinks and reds of a myriad of flowers. The gardener certainly did a wonderful job, aided by nature.
The day seemed to promise tranquility, a rare respite from thoughts of Timothy and the danger he posed to them. Even though she and Damian had found some comfort in each other, forgetting his initial rules, they still had to face each day under the shadow of their common enemy’s treachery.
Today, Gwendoline chose Daisy, her favorite mare. She loved the freedom of riding on horseback, with the wind whipping her face and her hair. It gave her a sense of peace. Whenever Damian had to tend to estate matters, she looked for a way to clear her head.
She trusted the gentle creature, which had been her companion on many rides. The stable hands had also been taking care of the mare. So, she was in good health. She was steady and predictable, just right for someone like Gwendoline, who didn’t get to ride as often as she would have liked before she arrived at Greyvale. In fact, she never had an opportunity after her father’s finances plunged.
She didn’t expect any conflict today as she put on her impeccably tailored riding habit and tucked her hair beneath her hat. As she was making her way to the stables, a familiar deep voice called out to her.
“Gwendoline, where are you going?” Damian demanded, sounding distraught.
“To the stables, of course. Have you seen what I’m wearing?” She smiled at him, hoping that he would just let her leave. “Are you not supposed to leave for Elden Village?”
“You know the risks, Gwen,” Damian pressed, his voice tinged with concern. “After the poisoned chocolates, I’d rather we do not take any more chances. Stay with me.”
“And I’m staying with you,” she retorted cheekily. “I’m in Greyvale, and Daisy and I will remain within the estate grounds.” She walked back to him and placed her hand on his shoulder reassuringly. “I won’t take long. Daisy and I will take a short ride nearby. What could go wrong?”
“You know exactly what could go wrong, Gwendoline,” Damian said, a little exasperated.
“I won’t take long.” Her voice started to take on a defensive tone.
She had been looking forward to the ride for days, but the rain had thwarted her plans.
“Gwen—”
But she was already half-running toward the stables, where Mr. Wilkes, the head groom, waited. She looked back to see that Damian was no longer following her, and she felt a little disappointed.
