What the Duke Wants by Kristin Vayden Read Free Book Online

friend?”
    “Because I’m the only one able to outwit a duke.”
    “Don’t flatter yourself.”
    “So are we agreed?”
    “Agreed. But if word gets out and I find that you were the source, I’ll help your sister, and make sure you’re caught in a compromising position with some unsavory wench. Agreed?”
    “There’s no need to be vindictive,” Graham grumbled.
    “Just a little insurance, you understand.”
    Graham sighed heavily. “Agreed. Who knows, maybe I’ll be a prince from that cinder story and redeem the lovely servant girl from the wicked duke’s employ.” Charles wagged his eyebrows.
    “You nodcock, first it was a stepmother, not a wicked duke, and you, my friend, are no prince.”
    “I’ve been told I look like one.” Charles performed a mocking bow, grinning like a fool.
    “That was one drunk tavern wench. So it does not count. Plus, with Prinny as the only prince we know, I’d not say that you are complimenting yourself, especially with his girth.”
    “I’ll make sure I tell him that at Carlton house.”
    “You’ll do no such thing.”
    “You’re right of course, but I might consider rescuing the damsel.”
    “From my evil ways?”
    “You of all people know how evil they truly are.”
    “Not in this case. I assure you I’m the paragon of virtue.” Charles spoke confidently, though his own heart called him a liar.
    “I don’t believe you for a moment, but if you want to pretend your mouth wasn’t watering at the delicious sight that little governess presented, then you go ahead and pretend.”
    “Aren’t you leaving the country tomorrow and have errands to do? I believe you said you were in a hurry…” Charles suggested.
    “Have all the time in the world, maybe I’ll postpone my trip.”
    “Lady Southridge.” Charles spoke her name and watched Graham’s eyes narrow.
    “You know, I do have somewhere to be.”
    “I thought as much.”
    “Try not to get into too much trouble while I’m gone.”
    “Because you’re the one who would rescue me? Is that it?”
    “I always do. I’ll see you upon my return, Clairmont.” Graham chuckled and waved as he quit the room.
    “Upon your return.” Charles grinned at his friend as he left.
     

Chapter Four
     
    “How could you girls?” Carlotta tried to rein in her tempter as she saw each girl glance down onto her lap with a guilt-ridden expression. Never had she been so humiliated. Not only did she seem incompetent in front of her employer, but also his guest! She hoped it wouldn’t affect her employment; she’d never get a good reference if she were dismissed so shortly after being hired. Then what would she do?
    “We’re sorry, Miss Lottie. It was my fault. I kept pestering them to play with me. I knew you were busy setting up our picnic lunch with cook and I got so bored,” Berty explained.
    “I was gone for ten minutes, Berty.”
    “Ten minutes is a long time,” Berty whined, her rosebud lips pouting.
    “We knew better Miss Lottie, but well… we haven’t seen much of the house and thought it would be a good way to explore,” Beatrix explained, her tone apologetic.
    “I see. And you, Bethanny? What is your excuse?” Carlotta asked, her anger dissipating.
    “Berty has always loved playing hide and seek. She was so happy once she thought of the idea to play I didn’t want to let her down. We… we have a hard time smiling still, Miss Lottie.” Bethanny’s voice dropped to a whisper. “After everything…you understand.”
    Carlotta’s heart broke. Truly, the girls were doing well, so well it was easy to forget that they were suffering and mourning. Children were able to bounce back from tragedy quicker than adults, at least that was what she always had thought. But that didn’t mean they didn’t hurt. She knew too well the pain they endured.
    “I see.” Carlotta nodded then paused to take in a calming breath. “I understand, but I cannot approve.”
    “Yes, Miss Lottie,” Bethanny responded,