72 Under the table- Part 2 (2/2)
”Ms. Curtis, I didn't get to congratulate you on your engagement,” Heidi stopped in her tracks, her hands already beginning to sweat when she turned around to meet the eyes of the Duke.
”Duke Scathlok,” she bowed her head unwillingly. He was wearing a black suit with a white shirt inside the vest, his clean glasses covering the dull black eyes. He walked towards her with a smirk on his face.
”I have been waiting to talk to the future bride of Mr. Lawson but it seems like he is quite taken with you as he had you by your side the entire time,” he said halting his steps, coming to stand in front of her. She alerted herself when he took her hand and kissed the back of her hand with his lips making her flinch internally. He didn't let her hand go and instead continued to hold it. Heidi looked around quickly to see there was no on around as everyone were outside, not even the maids were seen. Telling herself he wouldn't do anything, she tried to calm herself.
”I hope that you have treasured the little gift I gave you. I wouldn't want you misplacing it and saying it is lost when times comes to use it,” Duke Scathlok spoke, having a tight hold over her wrist.
”It is safe with me. You promised to free Howard today,” Heidi reminded him.
”Howard? The coachman,” Duke Scathlok said in realization, ”Of course. I will set him free once I get back. You have after all completed half of the truce successfully. But do remember you still have other work of mine to complete. Don't forget that I will send you right back to where you came from. I have heard that people aren't that welcoming in the slave establishment,” he whispered and she tried stepping away but the man held a strong grip over her hand.”
”Please let go of my hand. It's hurting,” Heidi pleaded the man and he did.
”How is your relationship with the lord of Bonelake? I hope you have gained enough trust to achieve the work I am going to give you. Lawson trusts you right?” he questioned.
”Yes,” she answered quickly. She felt uneasy and uncomfortable in his presence. Wanting to get away as quick as possible she agreed and obeyed to everything he said.
”It looks like you're turning more beautiful every time I see you. If I knew it, I would have sent Nora in your place. It is a pity to waste such a thing,” he said running his eyes over her body, ”We still have to discuss when you have to use the bottle. You will get the letter in a span of two weeks of when to visit Woville.”
Heidi was scared at his words. She didn't want to go back to Woville not where there was a possibility of her being violated. Her legs had begun to shake which was covered by her overflowing dress.
Thankfully the head butler had come to fetch her, ”Lady Heidi,” she heard Stanley call her, ”Mr. Lawson requests for your presence to join the dining room for brunch,” he informed.
”I will see you soon, Lady Heidi,” Duke Scathlok smirked before making his way out. Heidi didn't wait to see him off and instead went in the opposite direction, passing by Stanley.
Stanley saw the young woman pass by him and he himself turned to go to the dining hall before he stopped himself. Turning around he looked in the direction the man who had just walked out. He had only appeared at the scene but the atmosphere didn't feel right between Lady Heidi and the man whom she was talking too. Turning on his heel, he went to the dining room.