“Another Christmas Alone,” She Thought — Until a Duke’s Carriage Broke Down at Her Gate
Chapter 23
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"And I would expect him to understand that I have a life I value: a home, responsibilities, people who depend upon me.""I understand.""Do you?"Julian looked directly into her eyes. "Yes."She studied him. Then she smiled faintly. "And what would you expect of the lady?""Honesty," he replied."Reasonable.""Kindness.""Also reasonable.""And the courage to tell me when I am behaving like an idiot."Rosamond laughed. "Then I believe I am exceptionally qualified."Julian took her hand. "Rosamond, I would like to court you."She looked at their joined hands, then at his face. There was no arrogance in his expression, no assumption that she would be grateful simply because a duke had offered his attention—only hope and a little uncertainty. She loved him for that uncertainty; it made him human."Then you may," she said.Julian's face changed. "Truly?""Yes."He smiled. It was such an unguarded, delighted smile that Rosamond felt her own happiness rise to meet it."But I warn you," she added, "I shall continue to disagree with you whenever necessary.""I should be disappointed if you did not.""And I shall not become a different woman simply because you possess a title."Julian lifted her hand. "Rosamond, the woman you already are is precisely the woman I wish to know."She looked at him. Then, very gently, she squeezed his fingers.By March, their courtship had become the subject of considerable interest in the surrounding villages. Rosamond discovered this when Mrs. Hargreaves, the wife of the local vicar, arrived for tea with an expression of poorly concealed excitement."My dear Miss Fairchild," she began, "I hear that the Duke of Winterbourne has been visiting rather frequently."Rosamond poured tea. "He has.""How delightful.""Very.""And I understand he has invited you to dine at his estate.""Yes."Mrs. Hargreaves leaned forward. "Surely you must be overwhelmed."Rosamond looked at her. "By dinner?""By the attention of a duke!"Rosamond smiled politely. "I find Julian's company far more interesting than his title."Mrs. Hargreaves blinked. "Well, naturally. But one must consider the extraordinary difference in your circumstances."Rosamond set down the teapot. "What difference concerns you?"The older lady hesitated. "Well, society, my dear.""Ah.""A duke's wife must possess certain qualities: an understanding of etiquette, a suitable manner, a willingness to adapt."Rosamond smiled. "I have managed Willowmere for several years without setting anything on fire. I hope that counts for something."Mrs. Hargreaves looked uncertain.Rosamond continued gently: "I am aware that Julian and I come from different circumstances, but I should hope a marriage might be founded upon more than the size of one's drawing room."Mrs. Hargreaves stared at her. Then, unexpectedly, she smiled. "My dear, I believe you will manage very well indeed."Rosamond laughed. "I am glad you think so."