Chapter 39 - Thirty Nine
As dusk painted the sky in hues of orange and purple, Suzy clutched the finished guest list and the report for the ball. "Doris," she called out, her voice echoing through the vast hallway.
"Yes, Milady?" Doris appeared beside her.
"Is Ryan in his study?" Suzy inquired, a flicker of nervousness in her voice.
Doris’ lips curved into a knowing smile. "Indeed, Milady. It hasn’t been long His Grace entered ."
Suzy’s stomach did a little flip-flop. Not wanting to repeat the lingerie incident, a memory that still made her cheeks burn, she hurried towards her room.
"Quick, Doris! Help me change," she pleaded, divesting herself of her nightdress in a flurry of activity. "Something appropriate, but not... well, you know."
Doris chuckled, her warm brown eyes twinkling with amusement. "Of course, Milady. A simple gown, perhaps?
Reaching the imposing oak door of the study, Suzy hesitated for a moment. The memory of her last barging-in incident, the subsequent scolding, was still fresh in her mind.
Suzy straightened her posture, smoothing out the wrinkles on her dress. This wasn’t the time for second thoughts. Steeling herself, she raised a fist and knocked tentatively.
A deep voice, laced with a hint of irritation, boomed from within. "Enter."
Suzy took a deep breath and pushed the door open, stepping into the dimly lit study.