Avoid Any Marks!

"An invitation from the Queen? Did she not know that a dreadful disease has suddenly plagued the estate?" the Duke thundered, his dissatisfaction laced with anger. He glared at Denys, demanding a full account of the recent events in the palace. His fingers clenched around the invitation as he considered tearing it apart.

Denys hesitated for a moment, aware of the Duke's growing rage. "It appears that Queen Aurinda has been growing closer to Lady Dorothy," he began cautiously. "The Lady has been pleading with the Queen to visit the estate and help heal the afflicted, but Her Majesty believes it would be too dangerous for her. However, it seems the Queen wishes to celebrate Lady Dorothy's birthday and honor the Madam simultaneously, hence her desire to see the Madam."

Lucas, his mind drifting to the slumbering form of the new Duchess, a result of their passionate affair the previous night, couldn't help but smile. "She will not be coming," he declared a note of triumph in his voice.