Agnes nodded slowly.
“Well, you see, the others were gentlemen of society, Your Grace. They hosted grand parties, mingled with the ton. His Grace does not bother with any of that.”
Rachel knew that about him already—he was quite infamous for it—but she had never connected it to him having a different upbringing.
Sadly, it only raised more questions in her head rather than providing answers. The duke was clearly a man who ruled his estate with practicality but kept the world at a distance.
“Has thereeverbeen a ball here?” Rachel asked. “Since he took his title?”
Agnes shook her head. “No, Your Grace.”
“I see,” Rachel noted. “Well, I do not wish to keep you from your work for much longer. I just wished to come here and give my greetings.”
Agnes nodded furiously. “Yes, thank you, Your Grace,” she said, curtsying once more.
The day was finally coming to a close. She had decided in her head that she would avoid the duke, but she had expected to see him at least once.
However, it appeared that he was not even home.
Where was he?
She could not help but conjure all manner of scenarios in her mind. If he was not at home, perhaps he was in the company of another person.
Was it possible that he was with another woman?
The thought had appeared out of nowhere, and she surprised herself. Even if he was, would he ever tell her?
She could not help but wonder if this was what he had truly meant when he said ‘freedom.’ Was it the freedom to see other women? Surely, he was not like that?
Still, the question had firmly planted itself in her mind now, and it was hard not to ponder over it. She moved towards the window, hoping to catch sight of him returning home, but he was nowhere to be seen.
Another thought occurred to her, this one even more dangerous than the last.He must be spending his nights with someone else.That must be the reason why he did not wish to spend them with her.
Her knees almost buckled at the thought alone, and she could feel a sinking feeling in her chest. She had no reason to think such a thing. He had never given her a reason, other than his rules, his distance, his refusal to let her in.
She shook her head, frustrated with herself. “Stop this.”
But the doubt lingered, and Rachel knew she would drive herself crazy thinking over it alone in her room.
So she ventured outside. It was not yet that late that all of the staff would be asleep. Perhaps she could find some company.
That is when she ran into Agnes in the corridor.
Good.Just the person that she could speak to.
“Agnes,” Rachel approached cautiously, “have you a moment?”
“Of course, Your Grace,” Agnes said immediately. “How may I be of help?”
“I was just wondering, is it normal for His Grace to return home so late?”Or perhaps not at all.
She did not dare voice the second part, only for the reason that it made her angry beyond belief.
“His Grace might be busy with work. I am afraid that I am not privy to his usual schedule as he is quite discreet about when he comes and goes.” Agnes offered with a small smile, perhaps knowing herself that it was not so useful.
“Ah, I see,” Rachel sighed. “And, one more thing. Do you know… well, do you know what is kept in the attic? Old trunks? Documents?”
Agnes froze for a split second, slightly red in the face now. “I’m afraid I don’t know, Your Grace.”
