“What excuses am I to make to the Duke, then?” demanded Mrs. Winston angrily. “And you have already caused him to wonder at your affections.”
“M-my affections?” Madelina could not believe her ears. “As for the Duke, I have no affection for him!”
Mrs. Winston frowned uneasily.
“Surely you have friendly feelings for your host?”
“Friendly, yes,” agreed Madelina.
“Well.” Mrs. Winston tugged her shawl around her shoulders. “That’s a start. He will not be pleased if you do not attend dinner. I’m sure he wishes to discuss the party with you.”
Madelina stood firm.
“I am not hungry. Indeed my stomach churns at the very thought of food.”
“You are unwell, then!” Mrs. Winston decided with a certain relief and she went off to inform the Duke.
Madelina, pressing the back of her hand to her hot
