Page 29 of A Baby to Seal the Duke’s Fate

“This would do nothing to dispel the speculation that you are her father.”

Leopold glared at his friend, though there was no warning or anger in the expression.

“How fortunate then that the news will go no further than the nursemaid and you.”

Barnaby laughed.

“Do not be so certain,” he said with an impish grin.

Just then, Wilfred appeared at the end of the drive with a brisk, apologetic air. His wary eyes suggested he brought with him an unwelcome message.

Wilfred bowed stiffly. “Your Grace. Her Grace ordered me to find you at once.”

Barnaby looked from Wilfred to Leopold. “This ought to be amusing.”

Leopold rolled his eyes at his friend before addressing Wilfred.

“Why?”

Wilfred straightened. “Her Grace has asked that you join her in the drawing room.”

Leopold frowned. “Now?”

“Yes, Your Grace.”

Leopold suppressed a groan. His mother had been strange and insufferable since Cecily arrived. He was certain that had not suddenly changed.

“Very well,” he said.

Barnaby tipped an imaginary hat, grinning.

“I shall leave you to it.”

Leopold sighed.

“Remind me to properly thank you for your support.”

Barnaby laughed, heading off toward the stables.

“I shall.”

Leopold went inside.

His mother was waiting in the drawing room, seated near the fire with an untouched teacup beside her. She looked as though she had bitten into a bitter orange.

Leopold shut the door behind him. “You wanted to see me?”

She looked up. “I did.”

He crossed the room and stopped. “What is it?”

Her gaze held his for a moment before she answered. “I met the nursemaid in the corridor this morning.”

Leopold nodded, stiffening inexplicably.

“I expected the two of you to meet soon.”

She lifted her chin. “I made conversation.”