Page 32 of A Duke's Sinful Bargain
“Perhaps not,” Eliza added. “That is why it would be wise to tread with caution.”
As always, Anna appreciated Eliza’s counsel. “You are right. It’s just that there is something about him that urges me to question everything he says, as if there is more to his interest than mere curiosity.”
Eliza’s expression turned even more serious. “You are a good judge of character, my lady. Thetoncan be treacherous. A man like Sir Rupert could be harmless, merely inquiring, or he may have designs beyond the polite façade.”
“Indeed,” Anna mused. “I was cautious with my answers already.”
“I’m certain that you were.” Eliza smiled. “Now more than ever, you must keep your guard up. No one can know what transpires between you and the duke.”
“No one,” Anna agreed, absorbing her friend’s advice, despite the weight of responsibilities that pressed heavily upon her. “Thank you, Eliza. Your counsel is much appreciated. I shall be cautious, as I have been so far, and navigate things from now on with even more discretion.”
Anna would no longer linger on Sir Rupert and what his intentions might be. She had more important things to think about, such as the choice for this evening’s gown. She chose a gown crafted from rich, midnight blue silk, with an off-the-shoulder neckline adorned with lace that trailed along the edges, framing her collarbones to perfection. She wanted to drive him mad upon first glance.
She bid Eliza farewell, nestled into the carriage, and instructed the driver to take her to the duke’s abode. However, a disquieting sensation crept over her, like a cold talon patting her on the shoulder. She could not escape the feeling of being followed. The enclosed space of the carriage only seemed to make her sense of unease even worse.
At first, she thought it was merely the result of everything that had happened. She was on her way to see the duke, a visitation that could not be seen by anyone. She believed it was this sense of secrecy that was making her feel as if unseen eyes were upon her. Still, she could not resist the urge to glance occasionally out the carriage window. As she did so, she tried to discern any signs of a possible pursuer, but she couldn’t see anything.
The streets were empty, devoid of life, as the valet had been instructed to take the roundabout way so she would avoid stumbling into anyone. There was nothing out of the ordinary, every time she glanced outside.
The gas lamps provided enough light, casting pools of illumination on the cobblestone streets. Briefly, they would create shadows that, in her mind, took on the shape of monsters in the dark, pursuers, enemies known and unknown. But her mind would always prevail, recognizing them as shadows and nothing else.
Anna even considered turning back, but her desire to see Alexander was stronger. That was how the carriage continued its journey, the rhythmic sound of the horses’ hooves only adding an eerie melody to Anna’s mounting anxiety. She tapped the roof of the carriage gently, instructing the valet to quicken the pace, hoping to outrun the disquieting sensation that lingered like a ghostly presence.
She threw one more glance, finally proving to herself that there was no one out there. There was nothing suspicious. The streets were deserted. It was just the sound of her overwhelmed heart beating. As the carriage neared the duke’s residence, her heart quickened. His manor house beamed like a beacon of safety. Whatever was out here, she would be safe there, in his arms.
The carriage came to a halt and she stepped out, glancing around her, half-expecting to see a familiar pair of eyes staring at her. Once again, there was no one there. The night air held a certain chill, but there were no footsteps, no echoes of suspicion. She hesitated for a moment, then started to walk toward the front door.
It is all in your mind,she tried to pacify herself.Just tricks of your own imagination.
In front of his door, she couldn’t help but cast one last cautious glance over her shoulder. Then, the door opened without warning.
“Is everything all right?” Alexander’s voice brought her back to the present moment.
She locked eyes with him. He seemed truly concerned about her.
“Yes, of course.” She smiled, determined to cast aside the lingering unease and focus on the evening ahead, which held so much promise. “I just thought I saw someone.”
“Someone?” he asked, his hand flying toward her waist and pulling her inside, closing the door behind her. “Here?”
“No, I…” she started, wishing she hadn’t. There was no point in worrying him. After all, it was probably all in her mind. “On my way here, I thought I saw someone. But I didn’t. It’s just the dark, playing tricks on me.”
He didn’t seem convinced at first. She could tell that immediately. “I could send someone to check the premises, to be sure.”
“No.” She smiled. “It’s nothing.”
It’s the darkness and Sir Rupert’s questions,she reminded herself. It had nothing to do with Alexander.
“Are you certain?” he asked again.
Boldly, she lifted her hand and caressed his cheek. It was smooth, freshly shaven. “Yes.” She beamed at him, reminding herself silently why she was there. “Now… would you like to show me what you have planned for this evening?”
Chapter 17
Alexander was taken aback by Anna’s suspicions, but the moment her palm touched his cheek, all was forgotten. All he could think about was her presence, her proximity, the warmth of her skin.
“You know, I’m not that hungry yet,” she said, a mischievous gleam in her eyes. “Perhaps you could show me more of this wonderful home you have?”
With a gracious smile, he nodded. “Of course. I… I just didn’t think you would be interested in it.”
