Emma instinctively reached out and squeezed Richmond’s hand. “I’m so very sorry for your loss. It must have been quite a shock.”
“It was, and it took a while before I got my bearings. I was grateful when my father’s steward continued in his position. He taught me the inner workings of running the duchy and answered my endless questions. It’s more complicated than I’d ever imagined. I still struggle sometimes, but I soldier on, knowing that my sisters, servants, and tenants depend on me. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly.”
Emma could have listened to him talk all night and was in danger of falling under his spell. She could notallow that to happen and pulled her hand back. “I really must retire now. Good night, Your Grace,” she said and walked away with as much dignity as she could muster, never looking back for fear she’d rush back to him just to listen to the intoxicating sound of his voice.
His voice followed her through the parlor. “Good night, Miss Bainbridge.”
As Emma snuggled into her pillows that night, she wondered if she’d been too harsh in her initial judgment of the duke. Ever since she had started seeing what they were really like, she’d felt a deep disdain for the men of theton.So many of them were arrogant and cared little for anything or anyone except their own selfish pleasure. Had she unfairly pigeonholed Richmond in that category with the others without any proof? Perhaps it was time to start judging the man on his character and not her preconceived notions.
Chapter 7
As had become their habit over the past ten days, Emma and Charlotte planned to start their morning with a ride around the estate, Peter accompanying them at a discreet distance. It was a lovely way to start the day. However, Emma felt restless this morning, especially after encountering the duke on the terrace. She’d thought she was alone when he appeared out of nowhere.
How did he always seem to know where she was?
The more Emma tried to avoid him, the more she ran into him. The flutterings in her insides were quickly becoming her constant companion. She was finding it challenging to remain immune to the duke's charms, especially after their excursion to the village. Her mother had planned an enjoyable house party with various activities, and the days were more enjoyable thanshe originally thought they would be. Richmond was usually nearby and had paired with her on some of the activities. She didn't want to like the duke's company, but as much as she was loath to admit it, she thoroughly enjoyed his company, especially their discussions when they read her new astronomy book. They’d been reading it each evening after the night’s activities had concluded and the guests had retired to their beds. She appreciated that he took her opinions seriously and never made her feel foolish, but that didn't mean shewantedto spend more time with him.
Exactly the opposite.
Oh, who was she kidding? Shedidwant to spend time with him. That was the most confusing thing of all. She’d spent the better part of her life enjoying her solitary pursuits, and now she was craving the duke’s company? It sent her mind reeling with so many unanswered questions.
She walked down the stairs and met Charlotte in the dining room. She went to the sideboard where she piled eggs, bacon, and toast on her plate and enjoyed a hearty breakfast before they ventured outside. It was another beautiful morning, with only a few wispy clouds dotting the blue sky.
“I think I’d like to try a different mount today,” Charlotte said as they neared the stables.
“Are you sure?”
She nodded. “Yes. I think it’s time. I know you’ve been holding your horse back when you’re with me. It’s not fair that you should be so restricted.”
Emma wanted to deny it, but it was the truth. She couldn’t give Satine her head when Charlotte rode Lexie. She opened her mouth to reply, but just then, the stablemaster came out of the stable.
“Good morning, ladies,” Frederick said. “Your horses have been saddled.”
“Frederick, Charlotte wants to ride a different horse today. Would you saddle one of the other mares instead?”
He raised an eyebrow. “Are you sure, Miss Bainbridge? Lexie is already saddled and ready to go.”
Charlotte stepped forward. “That’s fine. I’ll ride Lexie today, and tomorrow I’ll ride one of the other mares.”
Frederick nodded. “Very good.”
“Charlotte, are you sure Lexie will suit you today?” Emma asked.
“Yes. We can still race, although I’ve no doubt Satine will leave Lexie far behind.”
Emma smiled. “This is so exciting. I can’t wait to race across the fields today. I promise to take it easy, so you won’t be too far behind. Is that okay?”
Charlottenodded. “Yes, thank you.”
It didn’t take long before Frederick and Peter brought the horses out of the stable.
“Are you ready?” Emma asked, settling into Satine’s saddle.
“Absolutely. Lead the way.”
They started at a leisurely pace, with Peter trailing behind them. A slight breeze blew through the trees. The day promised to be another scorcher, but it was quite pleasant this early in the morning.
Emma looked at Charlotte. “Shall we race?”
