“Wait,” I call after him, and when he slowly turns around, I smile. “Thank you. Offering the girls somewhere to stay is thoughtful. I appreciate it.”
“It’s obvious they are important to you, Gracie. I don’t want you worrying about them during your stay here. They’ll be well provided for, so there is no reason for them to risk getting themselves into any trouble.” When he smirks, I nod to let him know I understand.
“I’ll see you at dinner,” I promise, waiting for him to leave before I message the group chat and tell the girls to start packing.
JACK
“You must tell me what you do, Gracie,” Cecelia asks across the dinner table, and I can see it annoys the girl that she’s picked up on calling her that, too.
“Me? Oh, I’m a…I–”
“I’ve convinced Gracie to resign; she’s going to have plenty to do as Fairfax’s new duchess.” I reach over and take Gracie's hand, squeezing it tight in case she decides to protest.
“And how do you feel about that?” Cecelia focuses all her attention on her, searching for any sign of weakness.
“I’m fine with it.” Gracie pulls together the fakest grin I’ve ever seen.
“She’ll be busy making plans for the wedding; no doubt you’ll be grateful for the extra time, won’t you, darling?” I raise her hand so I can kiss it.
“Wedding?” Cecelia almost chokes on her duck as I deliver the next blow.
“What with all that's happened, I didn’t think you would be getting married quite so quickly.” She takes a long sip of wine to recover herself.
“Why would you think that? I’ve been told ever since I arrived here that I should be planning for the future. I thinkit would make Father very proud to see I’m taking my role seriously.”
“And when will this wedding be taking place?” Cecelia blinks nervously.
“I have the local vicar visiting tomorrow. I thought it would be pleasing for us to marry in the village church; is it not where you and father were married?” I stab my fork into my meat and await her response.
“Yes, it was.” I don’t know if it’s hate or confusion she’s staring back at me with, but it sure is satisfying.
“Of course, we will need to speak to Pandora. I want a dress fit for a duchess, and she’ll have very little time,” I add, watching Gracie's eyes spread wider. She reaches to take a sip of the wine that was served to her by one of my house staff, and when I shake my head, she surprises me by complying and placing it back on the table.
“These things can’t be rushed, Jack. I’m sure Gracie would like to get herself settled before she throws herself into any wedding plans.” Cecelia laughs nervously, clicking her fingers at the maid on standby and holding out her empty glass.
“Quite the opposite. I’m just as keen to get this show on the road as Jack is.” Gracie looks up at me adoringly, proving that she’s the perfect woman for the job.
“Well, I think it’s foolish. Jack has commitments and?—”
“You didn’t think it foolish when you were attempting to marry me off to the Linchford girl,” I interrupt her.
“That was different. Annabella is accustomed to this lifestyle; she would have been the guidance you need.”
“Then I hope me and Annabella can be friends.” Gracie smiles and reaches for her water, impressing me, while making Cecelia boil with rage.
“It’s Annabella andI,” Cecelia corrects her.
“My apologies,” Gracie responds graciously.
“You must excuse me, I’ve come down with a headache.” Cecelia stands and marches towards the door, slamming it behind her once she exits.
“A shame, I hope it gets better,” Gracie calls after her, trying to hold in a laugh when she glances towards the maid by the door and sees her failed attempt at trying to hide her amusement.
“You’re excused,” I tell the girl, deciding I should be alone with myfiancée,for what comes next. I wait for her to leave before pulling the red velvet box from inside my jacket and presenting it on the table next to Gracie’s plate.
“What is this?” She places down her cutlery.
“Open it and find out,” I tell her, watching her eyes sparkle as she lifts the lid on the box and reveals the huge diamond ring.
