Chapter 27

Ruth’s world was slowly crumbling around her, and if she didn’t act quickly, all her hard work and troubles would be for nought. Every painstaking moment spent in Lady Oakham’s insipid and obviously useless company, her mother’s badgering about not being married yet, hearing the whispers about the duke no longer being interested in her ... Ruth couldn’t just sit by and allow the nursemaid to ruin everything.

Obviously, the subtle warning she gave Lady Hannah the other day did not have the intended result, or the woman would have put more effort into pushing the duke in the right direction. Perhaps she had been too subtle, and another chat was needed, but one that provided a clearer warning. Ruth needed all the help she could get—forced or otherwise—to secure her future as the duke’s bride and future duchess.

Coughing lightly into her hand, she hoped the duke would notice and realize they had not been served refreshments yet. Usually, by now, tea would have been served, but no one had bothered to call for it. They were too busy coddling the annoying little baby in his mother’s lap. The duke, however, couldn’t seem to bear looking away from Miss Barnes. He had even touched her behind the ear like it was the most natural thing to do! If that gesture wasn’t a sign of intimacy, then Ruth didn’t know the definition of the word.

The duke had never touched her like that. In fact, he had barely touched her at all beyond briefly holding her hand when the occasion called for it. She should have been the one who held the duke’s attention and the woman he couldn’t bear to look away from. Ruth knew she was the perfect woman for him, but the duke evidently needed a more aggressive reminder.

Her hands sat tightly clenched in her lap as she observed the duke. His striking blue eyes had drifted to the nursemaid for the umpteenth time since the woman entered the room. If it hadn’t been clear to Ruth before, it certainly was now—the duke was smitten. Somehow, the nursemaid had wormed her way into his favour and possibly his heart, and apparently, Ruth wasn’t even important enough to be served tea.

A cool hand on hers jerked her out of her thoughts, prompting her to turn to her cousin.

“Calm down,” he mouthed, gesturing at her face. “You’re all red.”

Ruth scowled at him but quickly schooled her features into a smile. “Your Grace,” she called.

She stiffened when she saw his reluctance. He didn’t like being disturbed, but he still offered her a polite smile. She would much rather have his affection, but this was a start.

“Yes, Lady Ruth?” he replied.

If only she could speak her mind without consequence. She would scold the duke and tell him to grab hold of his senses before they entirely deserted him. It didn’t seem to matter that the nursemaid was wholly inappropriate for a man like him. That just wouldn’t do.

“I’m afraid my throat is rather parched,” she began. I wonder if I may trouble you with something to drink if it is no trouble,” she added.

She wanted to make him sorry for neglecting her. Guilt was as good a place as any to sway a person’s opinion in one’s favour. The duke frowned, looking at the table before them as though he were surprised that refreshments had not been provided.

“Oh, how odd,” he said. “I’ll have Mrs Harris bring a tray.”

He reached his hand to pull a rope hanging from the ceiling, but the nursemaid stopped him.

“I shall call her, Your Grace,” she said. “His lordship needs changing, so I’ll speak to her along the way.”

Ruth wrinkled her nose just thinking about the reason for the need. Babies were nasty little things, but they were a necessity. Thank goodness for nannies and wet nurses, or having children would have been unbearable.

“I’ll come with you,” said Lady Oakham, rising with her son. “I do not think I could be away from this ball of joy.” She sniffed his neck, her eyes growing squint as though she had just smelled the most wonderful scent known to man. “Why does he smell so wonderful? Do you put something specific on him, Miss Barnes?”

They walked away as they spoke to each other, already forgetting their visitors. The duke’s eyes never left the nursemaid’s form until she disappeared around the door, angering Ruth. It was like she didn’t exist. She looked away and pressed her lips together, forcing herself to remain temperate. However, what the duke did next left her floored.

“Would you please excuse me?” he said, rising to his feet. “I have an important matter to attend to.”

“Can it not wait?” Ruth found herself asking.

She didn’t even bother hiding the annoyance in her voice. He had barely said two words to her, and now he wished to leave the room. Her instincts told her he wanted to follow the nursemaid.

The duke raised his eyebrows slightly, evidently surprised by her question. “I’m afraid not, Lady Ruth,” he said. “I would have set time aside to spend in your company if I had known ahead of time that you were coming.”

Ruth’s jaw almost dropped to the floor. It nearly sounded like he begrudged her for coming to his house. She felt so unwanted at that moment that no words came to mind. This was simply the last straw for her.

“We were not initially going to come here, Your Grace,” said Bartlett, evidently picking up on her flabbergasted reaction. “We were returning from visiting my mother when Lady Ruth decided she wished to stop by. She merely wished to see for herself that your family is well. Her heart was in the right place, but we do apologize for intruding upon your time.”

Ruth glanced at her cousin, almost unable to hide her smirk. Bartlett was the king of invoking feelings of guilt in anyone he targeted. Barely anyone came away unscathed once he set his mind to humble them in the most subtle but effective fashion. However, the duke appeared unmoved. Not a stitch of guilt could be seen upon his countenance. It was like he was made of stone.

“There is no need to apologize,” he said. “We appreciate that you are concerned about our well-being and assure you that we are all well. Please accept my apologies for not being able to sit with you longer, but I’m confident you will not feel the absence with my aunt here. Please, excuse me.”

The duke turned on his heel and walked off, not bothering to give her a second glance. She had been thoroughly dismissed. Ruth could barely process his behaviour, but one thing was certain: she needed to get rid of that nursemaid. Miss Barnes was causing all sorts of problems, and quite frankly, Ruth had had enough. Narrowing her eyes, she turned to Lady Hannah. The woman was pointedly looking everywhere but at her, but that wouldn’t save her.

“I hear your courtship is going well, Lady Hannah,” she said, tilting her head slightly. “I’m glad to hear it. Mr Cruikshanks is a wonderful man. I’m sure you know many women—younger women—have their eyes on him.”

Lady Hannah slowly met her eyes. “Yes, he is a wonderful man. I am thankful that we have so much in common.”

“You certainly make a wonderful couple,” Bartlett commented, crossing his legs at the ankle.

“Thank you, Mr Bartlett,” Lady Hannah replied.

Ruth let a moment of silence pass before she spoke again, lazily smoothing her dress over her knees. The pale green was supposed to work well with her blue eyes, but she felt the modiste had lied. She likely had too much of the fabric lying around and wanted to make good use of it.

Miss Barnes seemed to have an endless supply of pretty dresses that complemented her complexion and features. It certainly worked in her favour that she had so many powerful and wealthy people in her life. One would never say she was a mere commoner from a glance.

“Did you recall that I said my father and Mr Cruikshanks are good friends?” she asked.

Lady Hannah stiffened. “Yes,” she said. “You told me during dinner at the Fords’.”

Ruth smiled. “Yes, I believe it was at the dinner party,” she confirmed. “Mr Cruikshanks has always been appreciative of my father’s advice. If my father believes a woman isn’t good enough for his friend, he will not hesitate to reveal his opinion.”

Lady Hannah paled. “Is this another threat, Lady Ruth?” she asked, her voice wavering slightly. “You said something similar at the dinner party. I just wish to know why you care so much about my courtship with Mr Cruikshanks. It is none of your concern.”

“My, you certainly have teeth, Lady Hannah,” Bartlett commented, evidently amused. “I never thought I’d hear such words coming from such a mild woman. Has love given you wings?”

“Should you not perhaps question why Lady Ruth has decided to threaten me?” Lady Hannah retorted, her eyes flashing despite the tremor in her voice. “You are a vicar. You should know right from wrong.”

Ruth chuckled, partially covering her mouth with a hand. “Do calm down, Lady Hannah,” she insisted. “What is all this talk of threats? I prefer to think of it as a friendly warning.”

“A friendly warning?” Lady Hannah repeated, raising an eyebrow. “That is a gross understatement. Pray, tell, why have you seen fit to threaten my courtship?”

She crossed her arms under her bosom, likely trying to show that she was stronger than she looked, but it was all a lie. Lady Hannah was a little docile woman who could be easily overpowered.

“My dear Lady Hannah.” Ruth tsked. “That word is an affront to me. Is it wrong to warn someone? After all, you are the beloved aunt of the duke. I think you owe me a little assistance in exchange for my well-intended warning.”

Realization seemed to dawn in the older woman’s eyes. “This is about my nephew.”

It wasn’t a question but a statement. Ruth nodded, amused that it took the woman this long to understand. She was rather slow.

“I’m confident you agree that your nephew and I belong together,” she began. “However, it seems his attentions have wavered. I’m certain that with your gentle insistence, he will recall that I await the continuation of our courtship. It was cut rather short and abruptly due to unforeseen circumstances. He seems to have recovered well from the terrible tragedy, and naturally, I expected him to keep his word.”

Lady Hannah meshed her lips together, her eyes darting to the door as though she wished to run off. It would be in her best interests if she didn’t resist the temptation.

“My Lady,” said Bartlett. “Is something the matter?”

Ruth smiled at her cousin. One could trust him to state the obvious, but rather indirectly. It was a well-used trait.

“No, nothing is wrong,” the older woman replied. “I was just wondering when your refreshments would arrive.”

Ruth scoffed. “If you say so, My Lady,” she said, briefly glancing at her amused cousin. They would have much to talk about during the carriage ride home. “So, do I have your promise to help steer His Grace in the right direction? Your very best efforts are needed.”

“Do be more specific, Lady Ruth,” said Bartlett. “I think we should all be aware of what is happening here. His Grace has taken a fancy—”

“I will speak, Mr Bartlett,” Ruth interrupted. “I didn’t wish to be so frank, but I suppose it cannot be helped. I’m sure you have noticed that His Grace has forgotten his place and become interested in a commoner. Is that not the most ridiculous thing you have ever heard?”

She laughed, and Bartlett joined, but Lady Hannah remained silent. In fact, she seemed disapproving.

“I take it you do not find it ridiculous?” Ruth asked, her voice tinged with growing anger.

Lady Hannah had not capitulated as quickly as she had hoped. However, Ruth had the upper hand in this situation.

“I merely want my nephew to be happy,” the woman said. “If he does not wish to marry you, so be it. I’m certain you will find someone more suitable.”

Ruth smacked her hand on the settee, her anger finally surfacing. She had controlled it up until this point, but she had finally had enough of that. She had earned the right. Lady Hannah and Bartlett had jumped at the sudden show of rage, wariness taking over their faces. Even Bartlett wasn’t accustomed to seeing her react so hotly.

“You would be wise to heed my warning, Lady Hannah,” she hissed. “If I cannot be happy, neither can you. Do you understand me?”

Lady Hannah’s hands trembled before she tightly clenched them in her lap. She straightened and squared her shoulders, her blue eyes filled with defiance.

“Your refreshments should be along shortly,” she said, standing up. “However, given the circumstances, I do not think it wise for you to spend a moment longer here. You can see yourself out.”

She walked off, leaving Ruth gobsmacked as she left the room. “What in Hades!” she cried, jumping to her feet. “Who does she think she is? I should—”

Bartlett grabbed her hand, pulling her back on the seat. “Calm down, Cousin,” he said, not letting go of her hand. “This is not the way to go about doing things.”

“But she has ignored my warning!” Ruth exclaimed, bristling with anger.

“Yes, so all you need to do is prove that your words have weight,” said Bartlett calmly.

Ruth stilled, her cousin’s words sinking in. Although she was raging inside, she could still see good advice for what it was. Lady Hannah didn’t feel threatened, so Ruth just needed to show the woman what she was capable of. She smiled.

“I think I’ll take pleasure in bringing that woman down a few notches,” she said.

***

“Stupid woman,” Ruth mumbled as their carriage drew away from the house. “Making me work just to put her in her place.”

“Are you still on about that?” Bartlett drawled, sprawled on his seat. “I thought we resolved the matter.”

“Anger doesn’t just disappear merely because a matter is resolved,” she said. “Emotions live on until they are resolved. I will not let this anger go until I stand at the altar with the duke.”

Ruth was going to use the volatile emotion to fuel her motivations. Anger allowed one to do things they wouldn’t do under normal circumstances. Usually, she would not threaten and scheme to get her way, but desperate times called for desperate measures.

Dorchester Place eventually disappeared from sight, but its magnificence remained imprinted on her mind. One day, it would become her home—it would just take a little more time to make her dream come true.

“What you need is a day devoid of any mention of the duke,” Bartlett commented. “Just one day to be yourself and enjoy a clear mind. This matter with His Grace has made you a tad ... strained.”

“Do you blame me?” she snapped. “This is my future, Bartlett. Speaking of which, you need to begin wooing Miss Barnes. Our plan cannot succeed if she is still around him. Do whatever you need to do, even if it’s extreme. She’s a commoner, so you will get away with much.”

Ruth didn’t need to say much for her cousin to understand what she meant. He had an imagination and often used it.

“You know I never rush when wooing a woman,” he said. “Miss Barnes is special and needs more finesse than the other women. I want her to be like clay in my hands, moulding her into what I want from her. I will be the potter, and she will be the clay.”

Ruth raised an eyebrow. “Is that not blasphemy? I’m certain there is a Scripture about the Lord being the potter.”

“I’m sure there is,” Bartlett said, shrugging his shoulders. “That should further explain the kind of relationship I want to have with Miss Barnes.”

“You want to be her god?” Ruth asked incredulously.

“Simply put, yes.”

She sighed, rolling her eyes. “You’re going straight to hell, Bartlett.”

Her cousin laughed. “After today, you’ll be joining me.”

Ruth stilled. While she was aware that it wasn’t good to threaten anyone and scheme to get her way, she had reasoned the wrongdoing away with the belief that it was owed to her. She had endured much just to gain the duke’s attention, and still, he had chosen a commoner over her. Ruth didn’t believe he would marry her, but Miss Barnes had drawn his attention away from her.

“I do not want you to waste time going out of your way to woo her with grand gestures,” said Ruth. “She is just a commoner. I’m sure something simple would suffice.”

Bartlett scoffed. “The woman has managed to gain the duke’s attention,” he pointed out. “That isn’t normal for a commoner. She did what took you years to do. Does that not warrant more finesse?”

Ruth sucked on her teeth, annoyed by her cousin’s words. Unfortunately, he was right. However, she would never admit to it.

“Just use your power to make her bend to your will,” Ruth advised. “Haven’t men called her a witch for her knowledge of medicine, plants, and human anatomy? Just use that against her.”

Miss Barnes was a witch, as far as Ruth was concerned. The woman had enchanted the duke with her feminine wiles, and now he was firmly under her spell. The fact that he couldn’t look away from her during their visit was evidence.

“I beg your pardon,” Bartlett said, frowning at her. “You want me to accuse her of witchcraft?”

“She has already been accused of it,” Ruth pointed out. “You’re a man of the cloth. If you accuse her of witchcraft, the duke might chase her out of the house for fear of his family being threatened.”

Bartlett stared at her for several heartbeats before he threw his head back and laughed. “Are you so desperate that you would allow an innocent woman to be accused of something as heinous as witchcraft?” he asked. “Goodness, Ruth! People were being executed for the crime up until the 18th century. Do you mean to get her killed just for a man?”

Ruth widened her eyes. She had said nothing about killing anyone. Even that was a tad too extreme for her.

“Ann Izzard wasn’t executed,” she pointed out.

“No, but she was tortured within an inch of her life!” Bartlett cried. “Is that what you want? For her to be tortured?”

Ruth shrugged. “I doubt anyone will go to such extremes,” she replied. “Not when she has several powerful friends. They will surely save her before anyone lays a finger on her head. I just need the church to accuse her so the duke will be swayed against her.”

Ruth wasn’t a monster. She was merely a woman determined to get what was hers. She had thought that at least her cousin would understand that. Somewhat insulted, she stared out the window, not really seeing anything. She was vaguely aware of people walking on the road and riders passing their carriage, but she couldn’t describe anything about them.

Her mind was too preoccupied with her future. Ruth had put much effort into her attire, knowing she would see the duke. The costly pale green dress, the subtle touch of diamonds around her neck, her hair tastefully woven with silver threads to give her delicate features a little etherealism ... She had spent hours putting together the look, hoping the duke would realize how fortunate he was to have a woman like her in his life. Perhaps she should have just covered her face in flour—that might have got her more attention!

Bartlett must have been in his own thoughts because he never said a word for the rest of the ride to her home. Usually, he would try to appease her and tell silly jokes to make her laugh, but he kept to himself. She might have taken it too far by suggesting they accuse Miss Barnes of witchcraft. Her cousin evidently liked the nursemaid a little too much to cause her trouble.

“Are you going to remain silent for the rest of your visit?” she asked when they were settled in the parlour with tea.

Her parents were out, which was just as well because she didn’t want to hear her mother’s complaints about her daughter being unmarried.

“Sometimes a man is quiet because he has much on his mind,” Bartlett replied.

“Are you thinking about Miss Barnes?” she said.

“Among other things,” he said, sipping his tea.

Ruth looked skyward, growing impatient with his lack of answer. “Well, while you think about whatever has taken all your attention, I’ll think about how to teach Lady Hannah a lesson.”

Bartlett lowered his cup to its saucer, giving her an odd look. “Do you plan to ruin her relationship with Mr Cruikshanks?”

“I simply want Mr Cruikshanks to question Lady Hannah’s suitability as a wife,” she said. “It will be his final decision to end their courtship. However, if she continues to be difficult, I might be forced to do worse.”

Bartlett gave her that strange look again, but he soon started laughing. “That is rather evil, Cousin,” he said. “Even for you.”

Ruth shrugged. “Is it really evil?” she asked. “Is it not more evil to let me believe for months that I would be courted and eventually married to the duke? My life came to a standstill because I waited for the duke. Why should Lady Hannah be happy while I suffer?”

“She’s not the cause of your suffering,” Bartlett pointed out. “The duke is.”

“Yes, but someone has to pay for my troubles,” said Ruth. “Rather the older woman than the man I intend to marry. Besides, he’ll suffer when you take Miss Barnes away from him.”

“I suppose that is true,” her cousin agreed. “Well, I do not wish to make Miss Barnes suffer, so I’ll consider accusing her of witchcraft as a last resort. For now, I prefer to use my charms on her, but I need to get close enough to do so. For that, I need your help.”

Ruth didn’t want to have anything to do with the nursemaid. The woman was more trouble than she was worth, but she was also the key to the duke.

“Fine, I’ll invite her to the house,” she said. “I’ll make up a plausible excuse to convince her.”

Or maybe she would just drag the nursemaid by her hair and gain some satisfaction. Inwardly grinning at the image in her head, Ruth added another sugar cube to her tea. One could only dream.