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“I Helped a Duke Find His Lost Dog,” She Told Her Mother — Then the Garden Gate Opened

“I Helped a Duke Find His Lost Dog,” She Told Her Mother — Then the Garden Gate Opened

Chapter 2

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Alderwick let out a breath that sounded remarkably like a sigh. The rigid set of his shoulders relaxed a fraction. "Miss Vale, I am entirely open to diplomacy, as my authority has clearly failed."It was a graceful concession, and Eleanor found herself smiling. "Come, let us see what trouble he has found."She led the way past the stalls, her light footsteps joined by the heavier, measured tread of his boots. The alley gave way to the edge of the village orchard, where the ground grew soft. Eleanor stopped, pointing downward. Small paw prints were clearly pressed into the damp earth, leading toward the line of apple trees.Instead of taking charge of the expedition, the Duke stepped back, gesturing for her to continue. He was observing her, his sharp gaze taking in her calm efficiency.They moved under the canopy of the trees, the dry autumn leaves crunching beneath their feet. The quiet of the orchard was a stark contrast to the busy market they had just left behind. They found Bracken near a stone wall, happily investigating the remnants of a discarded meat pie. The dog looked up, his tail thumping against the grass, entirely unrepentant."Bracken," the Duke said, his voice softer now, lacking the previous edge of command.Eleanor knelt, her skirts pooling around her on the grass, and offered her hand. The spaniel trotted over immediately, snuffling against her gloves."He is a handsome creature," she murmured, scratching him behind the ears. "But he has slipped his lead, and I doubt he will follow you quietly back to the carriage."She reached up and unfastened the long, sturdy silk ribbon that secured her bonnet. With swift, capable movements, she threaded it through the brass buckle of the dog's collar. The small metallic clink of the hardware sounded loud in the quiet air. She tied a secure knot, improvising a makeshift leash.When she rose, she found the Duke watching her hands with quiet intensity."I am indebted to you, Miss Vale," he said, taking the end of the ribbon she offered him. Their gloved fingers brushed briefly. "You are remarkably resourceful."
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“I Helped a Duke Find His Lost Dog,” She Told Her Mother — Then the Garden Gate Opened

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