She was only praying that things would not prove to be as bad as she suspected and, if they were, what could she do about it?
*
Back in the study, her cheeks a little flushed from her haste, Ilina spoke to the Duke,
“Luncheon will be ready in a few minutes and I hope Your Grace will enjoy it. But I do warn you there is not a great deal to eat in the house, although I promise that things will be better by dinnertime.”
The Duke looked at her and then asked,
“Are you intending to have luncheon with me, Miss Ashley?”
“No, of course not, Your Grace. I eat in my own room.”
And then she added,
“I shall be ready to discuss matters after luncheon with Your Grace and will be waiting here if you need me.”
She curtseyed and then went from the room while he was still finishing his glass of she
