---- 316.
TRACKING KATHERINE I stepped out in a simple,fortable dress for the long journey.
Adjusting my gloves, I let the housekeeper help me into the spacious carriage, exining a few things along the way.
"Have a safe journey, Duchess," she said atst.
I thanked her and slid to the side of the plush seat, leaving space for the Duke.
The interior was lined with green damask featuring silver patterns elegant and beautiful.
Under the facing seats, there were lockedpartments.
The housekeeper mentioned they contained provisions for the trip.
The luxury was obvious, but of course, this was the carriage of the lord and master of thesends.
Speaking of the DukeI waited and waited, but nothing.
The carriage door was closed, the structure shuddered as the coachman took his seat, followed by the crack of the whip and his shout to the horses.
Iimmediately leaned toward the small window, pulling the curtain aside.
Thats when I saw him.
The Duke was riding that beautiful white horse fromst night, surrounded by a group of men who looked like our guards.
Not manymaybe ten at most.
Tlet out a sharp breath and snapped the curtain shut.
So much for getting closer to him.
---- This man avoided me like the gue.
Each day, I grew more convinced that Id have to risk going along with Nanas n.
It seemed like the only way.
The journey continued without dy.
Drowsiness crept in, boredom settling in with the constant rocking.
I should have brought a book.
At some point, I drifted off, only to be jolted awake when the carriage hit a pothole beforeing to a stop.
I dared to open the door, needing to stretch my legs and get some fresh air.
As soon as I set one foot outside, a shadow loomed over me.
My eyes traveled upward, locking onto the Dukes piercing blue gaze.
"Were stopping at one of the silos on the map.
I need you toe with me for the inspection.
Its just observation," he said, his voice gruff.
His eyes wandered over my face.
Inodded and leaned forward to step out of the carriage.
I heard him clear his throat in irritation.
Now what? With a powerful motion, he dismounted from his horse.
"You couldnt have worn something mote...
covering? Were about to visit rough field workers," he muttered, frowning as he stepped closer.
"Covering? Im wearing one of the inest, most modest dresses in my wardrobe," I replied, ncing down.
Alright, so maybe my cleavage was a bit visible, but it wasnt like I could hide my two friends.
Sorry, but this is what it is, and my sisters dresses always fit a little too tight in that area.
---- "Dont stray from my side.
Understood?" He took a step forward, lowering his voice to a near growl.
"You''re the only one avoiding me, dear husband.
I, on the other hand, love being by your side," I shot back, stepping toward him, switching to offense.
His jaw clenched, the storm in his blue eyes swirling.
Texpected him to throw some sharp remark, but instead, his gaze dropped to my neckline again.
I could swear he let out a low growl before abruptly turning and walking away.
Who even understands this man? Do you like what you see or not? ook Following the Duke, we entered a small settlement ofborers.
Rustic wooden houses with thatched roofs stood in neat rows, typically used for workers during harvest season.
"Your Lordships, it is an honor for us that you havee personally to this humble ce," greeted a stout man with a graying mustache, balding head, and small sses perched on his nose.
He must be the administrator of this area.
"Mr.
Philip, I dont have much time.
Take me to the silo and show me the ount book," the Duke cut straight to the point, as always.
The man tried to remainposed, but it was obvioushe was sweating profusely.
With trembling hands, he handed over a heavy ledger.
"Duchess, look it over and walk beside me."