Page 47 of An Arranged Betrothal with a Contrite Duke
Patterson dipped his head, giving his master an indulgent smile.
“At your service,” he repeated.
Michael nodded.
“I am not sure when Lydia will be home,” he said, pretending that it wasn’t Patterson himself who said that originally. “But I want to have the house filled with her favourite flowers. Lilies and lavender. And pink roses, just as a little extra.”
Patterson chuckled again silently, but he nodded.
“And what is the other thing?” he asked, when Michael didn’t say anything else for a moment.
Michael blushed, realizing that he hadn’t thought through all his ideas very well. The idea of a piece of jewelry had crossed his mind, but it had only been a fleeting thought along with his other two ideas. But right then, inspiration struck.
“I would like for you to send for the village jeweler,” he said. “I wish to pick out something special for Lydia.”
The butler smiled, giving Michael a knowing look.
“You wish to impress the duchess when she returns home,” he said.
Michael nodded, taking another breath.
“I do,” he said.I failed her before today, but I will make up for it all now.
Patterson grinned at Michael, bowing slowly.
“I will speak with the maids about the flowers straightaway,” he said. “And then, I will personally see to the jeweler coming today.”
Michael smiled and nodded.
“Thank you, Patterson,” he said.
The butler dipped his head once more, turning as if to walk away. Then, he turned back, a knowing look in his eyes.
“It truly is good to see you this happy, milord duke,” he said. “And I believe that you make the lady duchess as happy, as well.”
Michael sighed. He knew the truth, but he couldn’t consider that right then. He intended to make her happy. And it would begin with his efforts that day.
“I certainly hope so,” was all he said.
After he dismissed Patterson, Michael sought out Mrs. Walsh, the housekeeper. She was in his study, heading for the secret cabinet which held the vase that he had, so far, managed to keep secret from his wife. He hurried over to her and tapped her gently on the shoulder.
“Mrs. Walsh,” he said, giving her a sheepish smile. “I know it is late in the day. But is there a way that you could talk to Cook and have a special meal prepared for Lydia tonight?”
The housekeeper blinked, looking stunned by the request. But she quickly curtseyed, giving Michael an apprehensive look.
“Of course, milord duke,” she said. “What would you like prepared?”
Michael thought for a moment, realizing with horror that he didn’t know what Lydia’s favorite foods were. He bit his lip, scolding himself for not bothering to find out that simple thing about his wife.
“I do not know,” he said at last. “I confess that I am not sure what she would enjoy most.”
Mrs. Walsh gave him a warm but knowing smile.
“Do not fret, milord duke,” she said. “I shall prepare a succulent roast with potatoes, which I know she enjoys. I will also make some fresh pies for her to sample with you, and a bottle of your finest wine. Will that suffice?”
Michael grinned, grateful to the woman for being so thoughtful.
“It will, indeed,” he said. “Thank you so much.”
