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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 3

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"I merely understand that one must secure a spaniel before he finds another pie, Your Grace. It was a pleasure to be of assistance."They walked back to the village square in a comfortable silence. When they parted, Eleanor watched him lead the dog away, the bright silk of her ribbon standing out against his dark coat. She realized with a faint stir of surprise that she was sorry the brief adventure had ended.Later that afternoon, the autumn sun cast long golden shadows across the Vale family garden. Eleanor sat on a wrought iron bench across from her mother, a small tea table situated between them. The garden was her favorite retreat, enclosed by a low stone wall and a heavy wooden gate that opened onto the lane."And so, Mama," Eleanor concluded, setting her teacup delicately in its saucer, "I spent the morning assisting a Duke whose dog seemed entirely prepared to choose another family."Mrs. Vale smiled, her embroidery resting in her lap. "The Duke of Alderwick is known to be a man of formidable consequence. It is rather difficult to picture him chasing a dog through an orchard.""He was surprisingly accommodating," Eleanor admitted, her gaze drifting toward the rose bushes. "He did not insist on taking charge when I pointed out the tracks. He simply listened." She traced the rim of her cup. "I found I rather enjoyed his company, despite the brevity of the encounter."Before her mother could reply, the distinct, sharp sound of the garden gate latch lifting echoed across the lawn. Eleanor turned. The heavy wooden door swung open, pushed by one of the Vales' housemaids. A blur of russet fur immediately bounded through the gap. Bracken trotted directly across the grass, making a straight line for Eleanor's bench, his tail wagging furiously.The Duke of Alderwick appeared at the threshold of the gate. Unlike his dog, he did not presume to enter. He stood perfectly still at the edge of the property, a tall, imposing figure in immaculate afternoon wear, holding his hat in one hand. He waited, his expression composed, observing the strict rules of propriety until Mrs. Vale offered a gesture of welcome."Please, Your Grace, do come in," Mrs. Vale called out, rising gracefully.Alderwick stepped onto the garden path. As he approached, Eleanor noticed the subtle change in his demeanor. The frustration of the morning was gone, replaced by a quiet, steady focus that seemed entirely directed at her. He stopped before them, bowing slightly to Mrs. Vale before turning his attention to Eleanor.He reached into his coat pocket and withdrew a length of silk. It was her ribbon, perfectly cleaned and carefully pressed.
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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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