The Duke and the Runaway Heiress (Preview)

Chapter One

The sun was just beginning to set over the park as Juliana walked arm in arm with her best friends, Charlotte and Amelia. The trio had spent the afternoon leisurely strolling through the gorgeous greenery and chatting, their conversation flowing easily between the latest gossip and the social whirl of the season.

“I swear, Juliana,” Charlotte said with a teasing smile, “you have half the men in London wrapped around your finger. Poor Lord Everly could not take his eyes off you at the soirée last night.”

Amelia laughed. “He looked positively devastated when you declined his offer to dance.”

Juliana shook her head, rolling her eyes. “He is hardly devastated. His heart belongs to his reflection in the mirror, not to me.”

“I am not too sure about that,” Amelia replied. “If you ever gave him the slightest encouragement, I’m sure he would …”

Suddenly, a shriek cut through the peaceful air. A woman’s voice, sharp with panic.

“Maximus! Maximus, no! Come back!”

Juliana turned her head just in time to see a small, white dog dart across the path ahead of them, running at full speed towards the nearby pond. The woman chasing after the dog was clearly distraught, her wide skirts slowing her down as she stumbled after him. 

“Oh no,” Charlotte gasped, her hand flying to her mouth as the dog charged straight for the water’s edge. 

The dog barked madly, chasing after a flock of geese that had taken to the water, their wings flapping as they honked in alarm. But as the dog leapt towards them, its tiny paws hit the pond’s surface … and immediately began to sink.

The water swallowed the dog’s small body almost instantly, leaving only its nose and ears visible above the surface as it struggled to stay afloat. 

“Maximus!” the woman screamed, her voice breaking. “Somebody, please!”

Juliana’s heart lurched at the sight. She adored dogs, and her heart ached for little creatures like this one; she knew she could not do nothing. Without a second thought, she shoved her reticule into Charlotte’s hands and hiked up her skirts.

“Juliana!” Amelia cried in alarm, reaching out to stop her, but Juliana was already running, her feet pounding against the soft earth as she raced towards the pond.

The dog was sinking faster now, its frantic splashing weakening as it fought to keep its head above water. Juliana didn’t stop to think. She reached the edge of the pond and, with a determined breath, waded in. 

The cold water hit her legs like a shock, but she pushed forward, not caring about the heavy pull of her wet skirts. She could hear the terrified yelps of the dog as it struggled, its tiny body dipping under the water again and again. It was only a few feet away, but it felt like miles. Her heart ached for the dog; she could not imagine anything worse than the poor animal struggling to keep its head above water.

“Hold on!” she called out, her voice steady even as her heart raced.

The water was deeper than she expected, rising to her waist, then her chest as she pushed through the thick, murky pond. She reached for the dog, but her fingers brushed just out of reach. The dog let out a pitiful whimper, its head disappearing beneath the surface.

No, no, no.

Juliana took a deep breath and dove under, her arms stretching into the cold depths. For a moment, there was nothing but dark, swirling water around her … until she felt it. Her hand closed around the dog’s slippery, trembling body. 

With a burst of energy, she kicked upward, breaking through the surface with the dog in her arms. It sputtered and coughed, water streaming from its fur as it shook violently. Juliana held it tightly against her chest, her breath coming in ragged gasps as she turned towards the shore.

The lady chasing the dog was now at the edge of the pond, wringing her hands and sobbing openly. A small crowd had gathered, drawn by the commotion, murmuring in awe and concern.

Juliana, her legs heavy and shaking, began to make her way back. Each step felt like a battle, the weight of her soaked gown dragging her down, but she held the dog firmly in her arms, determined to reach the shore.

Finally, her feet touched solid ground, and she stumbled forward, gasping as the cold air hit her wet skin. The lady rushed to her side, tears streaming down her cheeks as she took the trembling dog from Juliana’s arms.

“Oh, Maximus! My poor darling!” she cried, cradling the dog close. Then she turned to Juliana, her face full of gratitude. “You saved him! Oh, you brave, brave girl. How can I ever thank you?”

Juliana, still catching her breath, waved a hand. “I am just glad he’s all right.”

Amelia and Charlotte rushed over, Charlotte draping a shawl over Juliana’s soaked shoulders. 

“Juliana, that was incredible,” Charlotte whispered.

The crowd around them began to applaud, their voices rising in a chorus of praise.

“Amazing!”

“Such bravery!”

“She saved the dog!”

Feeling her cheeks flush despite the cold, Juliana said, “I only did what anyone would.”

“Not anyone!” Amelia said, shaking her head in disbelief. “Most of us just stood there in shock. You acted.”

The lady, still holding her dog, turned to Juliana with teary eyes. “Please, you must let me repay you. My husband and I would be honoured to host you for dinner. You’ve saved our Maximus. Anything you wish, name it!”

Juliana shook her head, brushing a strand of wet hair from her face. “There’s no need for a reward. Truly, I’m just glad he’s safe.”

But the lady wouldn’t be deterred. “Please, I insist. You are a heroine, Miss …”

“Thornton,” Juliana supplied, shivering slightly as the wind chilled her wet gown. “Juliana Thornton.”

“Miss Thornton, you must come to dinner. It is the least we can do.”

Juliana hesitated, but Charlotte and Amelia were nodding eagerly, urging her to accept.

With a small smile, Juliana gave a nod. “Very well, I accept your kind invitation.”

The woman beamed, her dog nestled in her arms. “You’ve made us eternally grateful. I shall send a carriage for you.”

As the crowd slowly dispersed, Juliana’s friends surrounded her, their eyes shining with admiration.

“Juliana Thornton, the heroine of the park,” Amelia teased gently.

Juliana laughed softly, though her heart was still pounding from the ordeal. She glanced back at the pond, where the water had settled into a peaceful calm once more, and felt a surge of pride and relief. She most certainly did not feel like a hero; she had acted impulsively, but it was still nice to know that the little puppy was alright.

 

Chapter Two

Later that evening, Juliana sat in the grand drawing room of Lady Lynn’s impressive estate. Her parents had been eager to attend once they’d heard of the day’s dramatic rescue, and Lady Lynn had insisted that they join her for dinner. Juliana had agreed, albeit reluctantly, unsure of what the evening would hold.

Her mother, the Viscountess of Torrey, had taken great care in preparing for the evening, choosing a delicate lilac gown for Juliana that complemented her auburn hair and amber eyes. As they were escorted into Lady Lynn’s home, her father remarked on the estate’s grandeur.

“Quite the place, wouldn’t you say, Juliana?” he commented, taking in the fine tapestries and marble floors. “Truly beautiful.”

Juliana nodded absently, her thoughts elsewhere. Despite the lavish setting and the warmth of Lady Lynn’s welcome, something about the evening felt a little … off. Perhaps it was the way Lady Lynn had been overly effusive in her gratitude or that she seemed almost too eager to introduce Juliana to her son, Ralph Lynn, the Earl of Somersby.

As if on cue, Ralph entered the room.

He was, without question, handsome. Tall and well-built, his dark hair was perfectly styled, and long lashes framed his striking blue eyes. He had the kind of presence that immediately drew attention. Ralph’s smile was charming, almost disarming, as he approached them.

“You must be the famous Miss Thornton,” he said, bowing gallantly before taking Juliana’s hand. “The heroine of the park.”

Juliana smiled politely, though inwardly, she felt a twinge of discomfort at the way he held her hand just a moment too long. “It was nothing, I assure you.”

“Nothing?” he repeated, his smile widening. “You saved a life. That’s hardly nothing. My mother has spoken of little else since it happened.”

Lady Lynn beamed from across the room, clearly pleased by her son’s attentiveness. “My dear Ralph was beside himself when he heard what you did. He’s been dying to meet the lady responsible.”

Juliana cast a quick glance at her parents, who seemed entirely charmed by Ralph and Lady Lynn’s flattery. It was no surprise. Ralph was every bit the picture of the ideal suitor. Handsome, wealthy, and polite.

As dinner was served, Ralph continued to show interest in Juliana, leaning close as they spoke, his eyes rarely straying from hers, as if the rest of the room had faded into the background.

“You must tell me, Miss Thornton,” Ralph said, his voice smooth, “how did you remain so calm during such a harrowing ordeal? Most people would have frozen in panic.”

Juliana smiled politely, trying to suppress the uneasy flutter in her chest. “I acted without thinking, I suppose. There was no time to be afraid.”

Ralph’s gaze lingered on her face, and he chuckled softly. “Such humility. Truly, you have a strength of spirit that is rare.”

Juliana was unnerved. She couldn’t help feeling as though she was being carefully studied, as if Ralph were assessing her for reasons she didn’t yet understand. 

Her discomfort grew when she noticed how often his eyes flickered briefly towards her parents as if gauging their reaction to him. It was subtle, barely noticeable, but once Juliana caught it, she couldn’t shake the feeling that Ralph’s interest in her wasn’t purely because of her heroism.

Still, the evening continued, and Ralph’s charm was relentless.

“Have you always been so daring?” Ralph asked, his tone teasing as he passed her a plate. “I daresay, any man would be honoured to have such bravery in a wife.”

Juliana’s smile wavered, but she kept her composure. “I wouldn’t call myself daring, My Lord. I simply acted as anyone would in such a moment.”

Ralph raised an eyebrow, clearly not satisfied with her modesty. “But surely not just anyone, Miss Thornton. Few ladies of your standing would wade into a pond without a second thought.” His voice dipped lower, taking on an intimate tone. “Such courage … it speaks volumes about your character.”

Juliana shifted uncomfortably, feeling the weight of his gaze. 

“You flatter me too much, Lord Somersby,” she said lightly, trying to steer the conversation back to safer ground. “But I am certain many would have done the same.”

Ralph’s smile didn’t waver, though his eyes gleamed with a sharper interest now. “You are far too modest, Miss Thornton. I find it fascinating, though. You speak of yourself as if you are just any other lady, yet today, you proved yourself to be different..”

Juliana’s heart skipped a beat. She swallowed her unease and replied carefully, “I do not think I am any different from others.”

“Perhaps not in your eyes,” Ralph said, leaning a little closer, his voice soft but insistent. “But in the eyes of others? Well, you seem to be quite the enigma. Intelligent, well spoken, and yet so … elusive.”

Juliana forced herself to keep her expression neutral. Ralph was digging, probing for more information about her, which was rather confusing. Was this not supposed to be a gratitude dinner? She glanced towards her parents for support, but they were too deeply involved in a conversation with the hosts to notice her mild distress.

Ralph leaned in slightly, his voice smooth as he began to steer the conversation in a different direction. “Tell me, Miss Thornton, what are your passions? Surely, a lady with such spirit must have interests beyond the usual needlework and embroidery.”

Juliana relaxed a little at the shift in topic, though she remained wary.

“I enjoy reading,” she replied, keeping her tone light. “And, of course, music. I play the pianoforte when I have the time.”

Ralph’s eyes lit up. “Ah, music. A fine pursuit for a lady. What sort of pieces do you favour?”

Juliana hesitated briefly, careful not to give away too much. “I enjoy the works of Beethoven and Haydn, though I confess I am not as skilled as I would like to be.”

Ralph nodded, a smile playing on his lips. “You’re too modest, Miss Thornton. I’m sure you play beautifully. Perhaps one evening, you’ll grace us with a performance?”

Juliana offered a polite smile. “Perhaps.”

He pressed on. “And what of the social season? Are you fond of attending the many balls and soirées, or do you find them tiresome after a time?”

Juliana paused, choosing her words cautiously. “I enjoy them in moderation. The season can be lively, but sometimes I prefer quieter moments. A good book, a peaceful walk … those are equally enjoyable.”

Ralph’s eyes gleamed with interest. “Ah, you value solitude as much as society. A rare combination. And do you have any favourite authors, Miss Thornton? I’m quite curious to know your literary tastes.”

Juliana felt herself inching into dangerous territory. Books and music were safe topics, but if he pressed for details, she would have to reveal more of herself than she wanted. “I’ve always been fond of the classics,” she said lightly. “Shakespeare, of course, and a few others.”

“Excellent choices,” Ralph remarked, his gaze never leaving hers. “You strike me as someone who appreciates both the charm of the drawing room and the tranquility of nature. Do you enjoy horseback riding as well?”

“Yes, I ride on occasion,” she said with a graceful nod. “But nothing too adventurous.”

Ralph’s smile deepened, sensing her slight discomfort. “You seem like a lady who could handle adventure, even if you don’t seek it out.”

Juliana laughed softly, hoping to deflect. “Perhaps, but I prefer to leave such excitement to others.”

He raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Is that so? I would think, given today’s events, you are not one to shy away from adventure when it finds you.”

Juliana tilted her head, meeting his gaze without flinching. “Sometimes, My Lord, we are called to act without seeking the adventure ourselves.”

After the meal, Juliana excused herself to freshen up, needing a moment to herself. Lady Lynn’s maid directed her to the powder room, located down a long hallway away from the dining room. As she made her way back, she overheard voices coming from a partially open door at the end of the corridor.

Curiosity piqued, she paused. One of the voices was unmistakably Ralph’s, but the tone was shockingly different from the outwardly charming, easy-going man she’d just dined with.

“I told you to have it ready,” Ralph snapped, his voice low and menacing. “If it’s not done by morning, you’ll regret it.”

“Yes, My Lord. I … I’m sorry,” came a meek response, likely from a servant. 

Juliana’s heart skipped a beat. She moved closer, just enough to see through the small crack in the door. Ralph stood over a footman, who was trembling under the weight of his master’s icy stare. The young servant’s eyes were wide with fear as Ralph loomed over him.

“I don’t care about your excuses,” Ralph continued, his voice cold. “You’re worthless if you can’t even handle a simple task.”

The footman mumbled another apology, but Ralph cut him off with a sharp gesture. “Save your grovelling. Just get it done. Or you’ll be looking for work elsewhere.”

Juliana felt a cold wave of shock wash over her. This was not the same man who had been trying to charm her at dinner, who had smiled and shown interest in her. It was no wonder she had felt so ill at ease. The Ralph before her now was cruel, heartless, and utterly ruthless.

She stepped back, her mind racing. How could someone so polished and pleasant in company be so vile behind closed doors? Her stomach twisted in disgust; she needed this evening to end before it worsened. How quickly could she get her parents out of here?

 

Chapter Three

The grand dining hall of Kensington Manor glowed warmly as the evening’s dinner progressed. Barrington Nash Stratford, the Duke of Kensington, sat at the head of the long oak table, his dark eyes watchful as the conversation between his guests flowed. Eleanor, his younger sister, sat to his right, her face serene, though Nash could sense the tension in her shoulders. To her left was Lord Hugh Carmichael, her intended, seated alongside his parents, the Earl and Countess of Marnsworth.

The evening’s conversation had been pleasant enough, filled with discussions of the season and social matters of the day, but Nash knew the true purpose of the dinner lay in what had yet to be discussed. The Earl and Countess were eager to set a date for the banns to be read for their son and Eleanor’s marriage. Yet, as the meal continued, Eleanor seemed to grow quieter, her responses to Hugh’s doting remarks more strained.

“Such a beautiful pair you’ll make,” the Countess of Marnsworth remarked, her jewelled hand waving delicately in Eleanor’s direction. “Surely, we can expect to see the banns read by the end of the month?”

Eleanor smiled politely, though it didn’t reach her eyes. “We’ve yet to decide on the exact timing.”

Lord Hugh gave her an adoring look, his hand resting lightly on hers. “My dear, I don’t see why we should delay any longer. We’ve waited long enough, haven’t we?”

The room fell silent as all eyes turned to Eleanor, whose fingers trembled slightly beneath the weight of Hugh’s hand. Nash narrowed his eyes. His sister had never been one to shy away from a decision, especially not one she had been so enthusiastic about just months earlier.

Before Eleanor could answer, Nash cleared his throat and addressed the table with a calm smile. “If you will excuse us, I believe I would like a word with my sister.”

The others murmured in assent, and Eleanor shot him a glance, gratitude flickering briefly in her hazel eyes. Nash stood and gestured for her to follow him. As they left the dining hall, he led her through the quiet corridors of Kensington Manor until they reached the small, private sitting room just off the main hall.

Eleanor sank into one of the plush chairs near the fireplace, her composure unravelling as she buried her face in her hands. Nash stood by the mantel, watching her silently for a moment before speaking.

“Eleanor,” he said softly, “what’s going on? You’ve been avoiding this for weeks now.”

“It’s not Hugh,” she declared. “I care for him. I do. He’s kind, and we’ve been planning this for so long. But …”

“But what?” 

 “I don’t want to leave you alone. I can’t bear the thought of leaving you here, all by yourself.”

Nash blinked in surprise, her words settling over him like a heavy blanket. He had always known Eleanor to be protective of him, especially after their parents passed away, leaving them to rely on one another. But this … he hadn’t expected this.

He crossed the room and sat beside her, taking her hands in his. 

“Ellie, you’re not responsible for me. You deserve a life of your own with Hugh. You don’t have to put that on hold because of me.”

“But I do. You’ve spent so much of your life looking after me. I’ve watched you take on so much … everything with the estate, the title, all of it. I just … I can’t leave you to face it alone.”

Nash’s heart ached at the sincerity in her words, but he shook his head, determined to ease her worries. “I’m not going to be alone, Ellie. I’ve been actively looking for a wife. I’m not asking you to stay because I can’t manage without you. I’m asking you to go and live your life because you deserve happiness.”

Eleanor stared at him.  “You … you’re looking for a wife?”

He nodded, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. He had not been actively looking for a wife as yet, but she did not need to know that. “I’m not going to let you sacrifice your future for me. You’ve done enough. You’ve stayed by my side, and I’m forever grateful for it. But now it’s time for you to focus on your own happiness. Hugh is a good man, and he’s waiting for you. Don’t let my future hold you back from yours.”

 “But what if you don’t find someone? What if you’re unhappy?”

“I will find someone,” Nash said with quiet certainty. “I’m not rushing into anything, but I’m not as closed off to the idea of marriage as I once was. I promise you, Ellie, I’ll be fine. I’ll be more than fine.”

Eleanor sniffled.  “You really mean it?”

“I do,” Nash assured her. “I don’t want you to worry about me anymore. I want you to be happy. With Hugh. You love him, don’t you?”

 “Yes. I do.”

“Then don’t waste any more time,” Nash said with a grin. “Set a date. Plan your wedding. And don’t look back.”

She gave a watery laugh, throwing her arms around him in a tight hug. “Thank you, Nash,” she whispered. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

He hugged her back, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. “You’ll never have to find out,” he said softly.

As they pulled apart, Nash saw the relief in her eyes; the burden she’d been carrying finally released. He knew that letting Eleanor go would be difficult, but it was necessary. She deserved her own life, and he wouldn’t stand in the way of that.

They returned to the dining hall together, where Hugh and his parents awaited them. Eleanor sat beside her fiancé and gave Nash a small, grateful smile. 

“The banns,” she said softly, taking Hugh’s hand. “We’ll have them read next week.”

A look of delight crossed Hugh’s face as he kissed her hand. The Earl and Countess beamed with approval, and the conversation resumed with renewed excitement for the upcoming wedding.

Nash watched his sister, content in the knowledge that he had done the right thing. Eleanor would have her happy ending … and, perhaps soon enough, he would find his own.

 

Chapter Four

Juliana sat on the edge of her seat in the Hathaway drawing room, her hands folded neatly in her lap, trying to contain the growing sense of unease settling in her chest. Her mother and father sat across from her, their expressions unusually solemn.

Her father cleared his throat, adjusting the collar of his fine velvet waistcoat as he glanced at his wife. Lady Hathaway gave him a slight nod as if urging him to proceed. It was clear they had something important to say, and Juliana had a sinking feeling she wouldn’t like it.

“Juliana,” her father began, his tone measured, “we’ve called you here to discuss a rather … exciting opportunity.”

“Indeed,” her mother chimed in, her voice laced with a forced cheerfulness. “One that we are confident will secure your future. And the future of this family.”

Juliana raised an eyebrow, already dreading what was to come. Her parents had always been ones for grand pronouncements, but their tone had an edge of desperation today. Her mother’s usual flair for the dramatic was tempered by a nervous energy, and her father’s attempt at composure was betrayed by the deep lines etched into his forehead.

“What opportunity?” Juliana asked cautiously, her amber eyes flicking between the two of them.

Peter took a deep breath. “The Earl of Somersby, Ralph Lynn, has asked for your hand in marriage.”

Juliana felt her stomach lurch, a cold weight settling in her gut. Ralph Lynn. She had seen him interact with his staff, the cold cruelty in his eyes, the way he spoke to those beneath him as if they were little more than dirt. He had fooled everyone else but not her.

Her parents seemed to mistake her silence for shock – perhaps even delight – because her mother leaned forward with a bright smile.

“Isn’t it wonderful, my dear?” Lady Barbara said, her voice alight with enthusiasm. “The Earl of Somersby! It is a most advantageous match. He is wealthy, well connected, and … well, he seems quite taken with you.”

Her father nodded in agreement. “It is a rare opportunity, Juliana. Ralph is prepared to provide for you in every way, and your position as his countess would elevate this family to new heights. We’ve already agreed to the match. The banns are to be read next week.”

Juliana’s heart sank at those words. They’ve already agreed. It wasn’t a request. It was a decision, one made without her input, without her consent.

She forced herself to remain calm, though her pulse quickened. 

“You’ve agreed to the match?” she repeated slowly, her voice betraying none of the anger bubbling beneath the surface. “Without even consulting me?”

Her mother’s smile faltered, but only slightly. “Darling, we thought you would be pleased. After all, Ralph is …”

“I am not pleased,” Juliana interrupted, her tone sharper now. “In fact, I am quite the opposite. I have no desire to marry Ralph Lynn.”

A stunned silence fell over the room. Her father blinked, clearly taken aback by her blunt refusal, while her mother’s face flushed with disbelief and impatience.

“Juliana, you cannot be serious,” Peter said, his voice dropping to a more severe tone. “This is not some trivial suitor we are discussing. This is a proposal from the Earl of Somersby. A man of considerable influence.”

Juliana stood, unable to remain seated any longer. The weight of their expectations was suffocating. “And I am supposed to be impressed by his title and wealth? None of that matters if the man himself is someone I cannot respect.”

“Respect?” her mother repeated, incredulous. “My dear, you are thinking too idealistically about a man you do not know well enough to reject. This marriage is a necessity.”

“Necessity?” Juliana repeated, her temper rising. “For whom? Certainly not for me. I will not marry a man I do not trust, no matter how high his title may be.”

Her father exchanged a glance with her mother, and something unspoken passed between them. Juliana’s breath caught as she realized they had more to say.

“We had hoped it wouldn’t come to this,” Peter said, his voice heavy with reluctance, “but you must understand, Juliana, our family is in a precarious situation. Financially.”

Juliana’s stomach twisted. Of course. It was always about money with her parents. They lived lavishly – extravagantly, even – constantly throwing extravagant parties, maintaining an enormous household, and purchasing the latest fashions. It had been easy enough for Juliana to overlook the whispers of their growing debts, but now, the truth was staring her in the face.

“We are in dire straits,” Lady Barbara admitted, wringing her hands. “The estate … well, it is not what it once was. We need this marriage, Juliana. Ralph Lynn’s fortune will save us from ruin.”

Juliana took a step back, her heart pounding in her chest. This wasn’t about her happiness. It wasn’t even about her future. It was about their need to maintain their luxurious lifestyle … about saving the estate and their reputation. She wasn’t surprised, not really. But it still stung.

“I see,” she said quietly, her voice filled with cold understanding. “So, I am nothing more than a solution to your financial problems.”

“That’s not what we’re saying,” her father interjected, a touch of defensiveness creeping into his voice. “We only want what’s best for you.”

“What’s best for me, or what’s best for the estate?” Juliana shot back, her eyes flashing. “Because it seems the two are not the same.”

Her mother sighed, her tone growing more desperate. “Juliana, please. We have no other options. Ralph is offering you security, stability … everything a young woman could wish for. You cannot throw that away.”

“I am not throwing anything away,” Juliana said firmly. “I am simply refusing to be sold like some prize to the highest bidder. I will not marry Ralph Lynn. Not now. Not ever.”

Peter stood, his face red with frustration. “The decision has been made, Juliana. The banns are set to be read, and the engagement will proceed as planned. You will marry the Earl of Somersby, whether you like it or not.”

Juliana met her father’s gaze, her jaw clenched in defiance. “No, Father. I will not.”

With that, she turned on her heel and stormed out of the drawing room, her heart racing with fury and fear. She had never openly defied her parents like this before, but she knew in her soul that she could not – would not – be forced into a marriage she wanted no part of.

As the door closed behind her, Juliana felt the weight of the situation settle on her shoulders. Her parents were in dire straits, and they had decided to use her to save themselves. But she would not let them.

She would find another way.