A Duke in Time (The Widow Rules #1) - Janna MacGregor Page 0,32
who will oversee shipments and ensure my employees have everything they need as they work.” She couldn’t trust just anyone with that position.
“I was thinking about my circumstances today.” Beth folded her hands in her lap and sat sideways like a proper lady, making the move elegant. “I want to stay hidden for a while, but I need something productive to do. What if I helped you, and then you could help the duke?”
“That’s a wonderful idea,” Constance offered. “Aunt Vee and I are self-sufficient here, and if anything arises, Willa could help us.”
Beth nodded enthusiastically. “Kat, before you say yes or no, you should know that I managed my brother’s house, including the staff. I even helped him with his horseracing hobby, overseeing the stables and purchasing the proper feed for the animals. I could do this for you.” The pleading in her voice was unmistakable. “Please, let me help?”
This was a gift from heaven. It would free up so much of Kat’s time. “Are you sure you want to do it? I could only pay you a small sum, say ten shillings a week.”
“No money necessary. You’re giving me room and board.” Beth nodded decisively. “I’d be honored to work for you.”
“Really? I couldn’t allow you to work for free.” Kat’s smile grew. She loved to negotiate. “What if I forgave the debt you owe me for the linens?”
“Done!” Beth announced. “Let me start tomorrow.”
“Perfect,” Kat agreed. “Then I can help the duke. Now, I have a favor to ask you both. I have a good friend, Lady Woodhaven, who has invited me to a small dinner party tomorrow in honor of the duke. I need a dress for the occasion. I have nothing that would be suitable for such an event.”
Constance’s brow drew together in subtle lines. “I’d loan you one of mine, but I left my regular gowns back in Portsmouth.”
Katherine shook her head. “I can wear one of my mother’s dresses. They’re old-fashioned, but I think I could make it into something presentable if you’d help me.”
While Constance nodded her agreement, Beth slowly stood, then walked to the window. Her expression was perfectly stoic, but her eyes reflected a world of worry. “I’ve been to several of Lady Woodhaven’s dinner parties. They’re lovely affairs, and the highest levels of government will have representatives there. Woodhaven has high political aspirations within the House of Lords.” Finally, she turned back in their direction. “You won’t be able to make a dress grand enough in a day’s time for tomorrow’s event. You must borrow one of mine, and I’ll help you alter it.”
“I’ll help too,” Constance volunteered.
Beth gracefully walked back to them but didn’t sit down. “Do you think it’s safe to attend such an affair?”
“Meaning?” Katherine tilted her head. “Are you talking about observing the mourning customs?”
Beth shook her head. “We shouldn’t have to mourn what’s happened to us. I meant, what if it becomes common knowledge that we’re staying here with you? Katherine, you might face horrific questions.”
She stood and crossed the short distance between them. “Beth”—she took her friend’s hands—“it’s perfectly safe. Helen wouldn’t allow anything like that to happen to me.” She lowered her voice. “She’s trying to help and believes if I attend more functions, I’ll grow my business and build my name. It’s wise advice.” She squeezed Beth’s hands gently. “Helen would be proud to be a part of our group and would welcome your friendships. She’s the type of person who would defend us against anyone who would think less of us because of our circumstances.”
“Does she know about us?” Constance asked. Lines of worry creased her forehead.
“No, she doesn’t know about any of it because you asked me not to tell her. However, she’d come to me if she’d heard a whiff of any rumor. If anyone has their pulse on the gossip, it’s Helen. She’s highly respected. And discreet,” Katherine added softly.
Beth stared at their clasped hands. “You’ll have a lovely time.” A melancholy seemed to have shrouded her friend in a pensive mood.
“I’m not really attending for the enjoyment of the event. Things will change for the better. I’m sure of it. Sooner rather than later, you’ll be able to go back to your old life,” Katherine offered.
Beth squeezed her eyes shut for a moment. “I don’t want to go back. I’m done with that life.” She waved a hand in dismissal. “Don’t mind me. Now, let’s get you ready for that party.”