The Lady's Disgrace by Callie Hutton Page B

less than noble, a slight feeling of sadness filled her. Then she gave herself a shake. This was precisely what she’d wanted. A marriage with nothing more than an understanding between them. No foolishness like love to cause strife.
    “After seeing some of the machinations that Drake has to go through in the House of Lords, I cannot say that I blame you.” She took a sip of her tea. “Where are your other properties?”
    “I sold one of them, which allowed me to purchase this house. The other is in Cornwall. There is a very competent steward who runs the place.”
    “Do you ever visit?”
    “About twice a year.”
    “How very interesting. I should enjoy going with you the next time you make the trip.”
    “Of course. I am sure the tenants would love to meet you.”
    Abigail returned to her breakfast. She’d suffered one surprise after another since their wedding. Joseph was not the sober, sanctimonious man she’d assumed. It still rankled at how quickly he’d laced her up at the inn. He also maintained a very comfortable life, with numerous staff. Somehow, she’d expected her life to be, while not exactly poor, at least not quite as opulent as it appeared. But on the other hand, Drake would have made certain she would be amply provided for.
    “I think perhaps after breakfast we might take a stroll around the garden,” Joseph said.
    “I would like that.” She glanced out the window. “We had best make it right after breakfast. It appears we may be in for some rain.”
    “After our stroll, I will have Mrs. O’Neill introduce you to the staff.”
    Abigail was about to question him on the sleeping arrangements when the butler she’d met yesterday stepped into the breakfast room. “Sir, you have a caller.”
    “So early, Manning? Who is here?”
    “Lady Durham has arrived.”
    Joseph shoved back his chair, a smile on his lips. “Send her in.” He turned to Abigail. “Lady Durham is widowed and a member of the parish. She has helped a great deal with church projects and is especially excited about the new school.”
    “Mr. Fox!” Lady Durham glided into the room, holding out her hands. Their visitor was another addition to Abigail’s list of surprises. Expecting to see an older, somewhat stocky woman who was devoting her life to the church, Abigail was stunned to see an absolutely beautiful young lady. Not much older than Abigail, Lady Durham was dressed in the height of fashion in a lavender muslin gown, with purple embroidery around the bodice. Her red hair was smoothed back from her face. Her black and lavender bonnet framed a sweet countenance. Except for her eyes, which implied a cold and calculating mind. Despite this woman’s soft and friendly demeanor, Abigail shivered.
    “Lady Durham, how nice to see you.” Joseph took her hand in his and raised it to his lips.
    She patted his cheek warmly.
    She’s a bit forward.
    “I just couldn’t wait to hear how successful you were in London. You were gone much longer than I expected.” Lady Durham took the seat Joseph held out for her, glancing in Abigail’s direction, her eyebrows raised apparently in surprise. “And may I be made known to your guest?”
    Joseph took his seat and placed his hand over Abigail’s. “Lady Durham, I would like you to meet my wife, Lady Abigail Fox.”
    The woman took in a deep breath, and her face turned as pale as new snow. Her eyes darted back and forth between Abigail and Joseph, her nostrils flaring with. . .what? Anger? Surprise?
    “Your wife?” her voice trilled, actually hurting Abigail’s ears. Swallowing rapidly, she added, “Surely you are joking, Mr. Fox.” She lowered her voice to almost a whisper.
    A confused smile on his face, he shook his head. “Not at all. I assure you, Lady Durham, this is no joke. Lady Abigail and I were wed in London three days ago. I’m hoping once you become better acquainted, you will be good friends.”
    “How do you do, Lady Durham? I am pleased to meet you.”