Ultimately, her choice is between Albert and the dukedom is based on what she thinks will make her happier. From the story so far, I think it makes more sense that she turned down the dukedom as it has been one of the biggest source of unhappiness so far. Sure her grandfather and a few cousins are nice and make her happy, but what everything else? Because others desire the power that comes from the dukedom, her father was estranged and she was kidnapped and almost raped. Even with her grandfather's overwhelming support, her extended family was still incredibly hostile. If she were to become heir and married to Albert, the hostility would probably get worse. Due to his experience and pedigree, they might respect her even less since they'd assume Albert was the main reason behind any success she has. Then you'd have rumors of Elijah being used by Albert to gain more power and wealth. They could clear up any rumors, but they would continue to linger about lead to even more unpleasant rumors. She probably would've been miserable if she accepted it.
On the other hand, if she were to become Albert's countess wouldn't she have a better chance at happiness? They are already her second family, the people around her respect her and her upbrining. Albert would probably let her do anything she wants (within reason) giving her an opportunity to get her dream job, a teacher.The still could be rumors there also be rumors, but Q wouldn't be neatly as malicious since she's now the Duke granddaughter. Also, she gets to stand by the side of someone who has never-ending love and respect for her. Could she regret her choice someday? Maybe but, at this point of the story, marriage is the happier choice of the two for her.
Ultimately, her choice is between Albert and the dukedom is based on what she thinks will make her happier. From the story so far, I think it makes more sense that she turned down the dukedom as it has been one of the biggest source of unhappiness so far. Sure her grandfather and a few cousins are nice and make her happy, but what everything else? Because others desire the power that comes from the dukedom, her father was estranged and she was kidnapped and almost raped. Even with her grandfather's overwhelming support, her extended family was still incredibly hostile. If she were to become heir and married to Albert, the hostility would probably get worse. Due to his experience and pedigree, they might respect her even less since they'd assume Albert was the main reason behind any success she has. Then you'd have rumors of Elijah being used by Albert to gain more power and wealth. They could clear up any rumors, but they would continue to linger about lead to even more unpleasant rumors. She probably would've been miserable if she accepted it.
On the other hand, if she were to become Albert's countess wouldn't she have a better chance at happiness? They are already her second family, the people around her respect her and her upbrining. Albert would probably let her do anything she wants (within reason) giving her an opportunity to get her dream job, a teacher.The still could be rumors there also be rumors, but Q wouldn't be neatly as malicious since she's now the Duke granddaughter. Also, she gets to stand by the side of someone who has never-ending love and respect for her. Could she regret her choice someday? Maybe but, at this point of the story, marriage is the happier choice of the two for her.