Even the duke had laughed. The sound startled her, and when she’d sneaked a glance to confirm she wasn’t imagining it, she’d noticed tiny wrinkles at the corners of his eyes.
His mouth, which was usually tight and firm, had been relaxed.
And then he’d provided expert assistance in completing the task.
Alone, in the privacy of her bedchamber, Melanie laughed right out loud. No one would ever believe that she’d changed a nappy with the Duke of Malum.
An almost giddy flutter rippled through her.
She’d told him she’d expected him to be a monster. It was what he wanted everyone to believe, wasn’t it?
His answer had been even more unexpected— “You shouldn’t believe everything you read…”
If someone had said something like this before the fire last year, she wouldn’t have understood. But now…
There were people who believed Reed was a monster, despite his good nature, despite his excellent character.
Theton, in truth, was the real monster. Because of their gossip… so much nonsensical talking…
Too much talking, as opposed to her near silence.
Only…
There were moments yesterday when she’d hardly struggled at all—because of the baby?
She stared out the window, more than a little confused…
He was theDuke of Malum! She ought to have been even more terrified—and therefore quieter—than usual. And yet,although she’d been nervous at first, after a few minutes in his presence, her nerves had fled.
But why?
Melanie’s fingers absentmindedly traced the ruffle on the edge of her counterpane until a knock interrupted her thoughts.
Before she could reply, the door opened, and in stepped Eloisa, balancing a tray of tea and toast.
Why wasn’t she tending to Josephine or her mother?
Melanie sent her a tentative smile, but Eloisa barely acknowledged it. Her expression, in fact, was uncharacteristically grave.
"Drink up, my lady," she said, setting the tray down on a nearby table. "Your mother, along with Lord and Lady Helton, request your presence downstairs. They wish to meet with you in your brother's study this morning."
Melanie’s brow furrowed at the mention of the study. It was rarely used, especially in her brother’s absence.
All thoughts of the duke, Ernest, and her unexpected ease around them vanished.
Because an early morning meeting—in her father’s, or her brother’s study, rather—couldn’t possibly signify anything good. Eloisa certainly didn’t seem to think it did.
This unexpected summons had to have something to do with Caroline’s concerns from the day before. What had her mother done now? If Caroline’s husband, Lord Helton, was involved, it must be bad.
That familiar fear for Reed surged within her.
“I’ve been instructed to help you dress. They are waiting for you." There was no room for delay in Eloisa’s tone.
“Of course,” Melanie answered as she leapt off the bed, ignoring the tea.
Caroline must have been right to be concerned.
Oh, Mother! What have you done?
