“See that you do.” Estella winked. “Now come for a walk with me in the garden. Hannah is resting, and I have no wish to spend any time with Lady Corinne.”
“Who is she?” Annalise asked. “She’s not much of a conversationalist. I tried talking to her at dinner and she outright ignored me.”
The pretty blonde woman had kept to herself most of the time they were there. She had been secretly watching Marrok, and her brother had glanced at the lady in return. Something had happened there.
“She’s somehow related to Lord Manchester, or maybe it’s his niece…” Estella frowned. “I remember now. She’s Amelia’s aunt. That is Garrick’s young niece. Poor little girl lost both her parents. Lady Corrine was her mother’s sister. Garrick lets her stay for long visits so Amelia doesn’t feel so alone.”
“That’s nice of him,” Annalise replied. “It’s good to see a man actually care about his female relationships.” Yes, her bitterness poured out in those words. For her father she was nothing more than a bartering chip to use to further his personal gain.
“Not all men are like the Duke of Wolfton.” Estella stood up and Annalise joined her. They walked out of the sitting room and headed toward the garden. Once outside, Estella grabbed her arm and said, “Don’t make the same mistake I did. If you do fall in love, please don’t fail to trust it. If they’re good enough to win your heart, then they deserve the complete truth. If I had explained everything to Donovan, we might not have had all those years of separation.”
“It’s hard to say what may or may not have happened.” She nibbled on her bottom lip. “At least you have found your way back to each other now. Don’t worry about me. If I’m lucky enough to find love, then I promise to trust in it completely. What’s love without it?”
That much she completely believed. They headed down the garden path that was a wall of rose bushes. It had a variety of colors from peach, to pink, to a brilliant red. Annalise loved flowers, but she had always loved roses. They were so beautiful, and she wished she could have grown some in the garden at home. Yes, they had some roses, but not nearly the likes of those growing in the Manchester garden. Her father didn’t care as long as it was well taken care of and looked decent enough for him to show off to guests.
“Estella,” a male shouted. “Are you out here?”
They both turned at the shout. “Ah,” Estella mumbled. “That’s my husband bellowing for me. I suppose I should go speak with him.” She glanced over at Annalise. “Will you be all right on your own?”
“Of course—don’t be silly. Go to Warwick.” Her lips tilted upward into a smile to reassure Estella. “I promise I can manage on my own. We’ll see each other tonight at dinner.” In the morning, she’d be leaving and probably wouldn’t have a chance to visit with her stepsister before departing. Marrok wanted to get an early start and return home as soon as possible.
“I look forward to it,” she replied then hugged Annalise quickly before departing to catch up with her husband.
After Estella was well out of sight, Annalise let her smile fall from her face. Her cheeks ached from holding that look of contentment in place. It was better than allowing her stepsister to realize the truth. Misery resided deep inside her, in full bloom, and it didn’t appear as if it would wither away. Her destiny was evident, and while she had accepted it, that didn’t mean she had to like it. In fact, she detested the path she’d been forced to take. Unfortunately, she had no idea how to untangle herself from the twisted fate her father had in store for her.
“What brings sadness to such a lovely face?”
Annalise glanced up, startled out of her melancholy mood. She met Lord Cinderbury’s gaze and was momentarily taken aback. He said pretty words and was by far one of the handsomest men she’d ever laid eyes on, but something about him unnerved her. Perhaps it’s because he’s so gorgeous or maybe it had more to do with the way he looked at her. Something in his eyes seemed far older than he appeared. As if he saw more than the rest of the world did...
“I’m not sad,” she denied. “Lost in thought.”
“Then your thoughts have brought that frown out on such a fine day. I’d suggest you find something more pleasant to focus on.” His lips tilted upward into a sinful smile, but it didn’t reach his eyes. Lord Cinderbury carried a little sorrow of his own inside of him. Sometimes like recognized like, and that made him even more appealing. Whatever happened to him in the past had left a mark on his soul. Annalise hated that anyone else might suffer wretchedness similar to her own, but it also made Lord Cinderbury someone she could relate to. How depressing was that? She felt empathy toward him and a need to discover more about him. What did that say about her?
“You’re right, of course.” She didn’t smile at him. He’d have seen through it much the same way she would have. “But sometimes doing that isn’t quite so simple.”
He nodded. “That’s true as well.” Lord Cinderbury stared up at the sky for a moment. “But if we don’t at least try, what kind of life will we end up having.”
A profound statement, but she found no comfort in it. She couldn’t dig deep enough inside herself to uncover the strength for such an endeavor. Why try when her father would squash every possibility of hope. “I must admit I didn’t expect to find such sanguinity from you.”
“Oh?” He glanced down at her and lifted a brow. “Pray tell, what is it you did expect from me?”
She shrugged. “I don’t know that I had any, but if I did, I’d have said you were more of the brooding type. You don’t strike me as a gentleman who embraces his cheerful side.”
“Normally, I don’t,” he admitted. “But since I’ve come here something inside of me seems—lighter. Maybe it was finally seeing Estella again and being reassured of her happiness. I haven’t seen her since her father died and the title passed on to me. I’ve worried about her.”
Annalise tilted her head and studied him. “I never knew her father. Estella didn’t come into my life until some time after that. She spoke of you whenever father wasn’t around. I admit, it made me curious about you. What made you so special to her?”
She’d never voiced that aloud. Marrok was protective of her, and they had a congenial relationship, but she often wondered if he’d come to her aid if it were needed. She’d like to believe he would; however, with her father in control, it might not be in his power to do so. Her brother was at her father’s mercy as well, and the duke liked to control those he deemed his.
“I’m not special,” he said quietly. “I’m merely a man, nothing more, nothing less.”
“And yet,” Annalise began. “Estella holds you in the highest regard. There’s no better compliment or recommendation a person can receive. She is an excellent judge of character.”
When Estella had fallen in love with Lord Warwick, Annalise already knew he’d be a good man. He’d been so besotted with her stepsister. There was no other gentleman for Estella after their first meeting. Suitor after suitor would attempt to court her, but she’d denied every one of them. That alone had irritated Annalise’s father. But it had given her hope when none could be found. Estella had seen through all the other swains out to win her hand. Maybe Annalise would be able to find her prince amongst the sea of scoundrels in the midst of society. Sadly, she never had. She’d be alone forever. If she were lucky enough to find her one true love, she’d have him meet Estella. She trusted no other to discover a man’s true worth.
“I fear I must agree with you again. She surrounds herself with people who are worthy of her.” Lord Cinderbury reached over and plucked a red rose from a bush. He carefully removed the thorns and then presented it to her. “A flower for a lovely lady—maybe it’ll give you something to smile about.”
A slow smile formed as she met his gaze. He was a charming gentleman and oh, so tempting. “Thank you.”
“It’s my pleasure.” He seemed rather pleased with himself. “Would you like me to escort you inside or would you prefer to enjoy the lovely we
ather while it lasts?”
Annalise nodded. “I am rather fatigued, and I would like to rest before dinner.”
He held out his arm, and she placed her hand on it. They walked in silence back into the house. Lord Cinderbury was an enigma she wanted to solve. Was he really so wonderful, or did his charm mask a soul too wounded to find true happiness? Maybe it was a little of both. They did seem to bond over a shared history of unhappiness, and Annalise wasn’t a stranger to mixed emotions. She wished she could find more time to spend with him. Sadly, after dinner, she’d probably never see him again…
CHAPTER 4
RYAN WANDERED into what was supposed to be the sitting room for Lady Manchester, but she’d converted it into a fencing parlor. He planned on leaving after breakfast, but had been delayed by Lord Warwick and Lord Manchester. They had gone riding on the estate, giving Ryan a chance to become more acquainted with the two gentlemen. He liked them quite a bit and wanted to further the friendship. Especially since his cousin had married Lord Warwick—Estella had chosen wisely by marrying him.
He’d just come back from his ride with them, and now he was in search of Estella to say goodbye. He’d chosen to ride a horse from the Manchester stable instead of his stallion. He didn’t want to delay his trip home too much. Octavius had been well rested and should be all right for the long trek back to Cinderbury Manor.
He rounded the corner to where Lady Manchester and Estella were embroiled in a fencing match. He’d discovered that the countess was enceinte and her insistence on fencing drove her husband mad with worry. Ryan didn’t quite understand how he managed not to pull all the hair out of his head from the stress of it. He didn’t know if he could handle watching his wife fence while she carried a babe—whenever he decided to marry, which wouldn’t be for a while. Lord Manchester had far more patience than he did.
Estella and Lady Manchester parried. They were evenly matched, and he didn’t dare guess who’d come out the victor. Both ladies were deep in concentration as they battled with their foils and wits. Neither one of them had noticed him enter. They were so focused, nothing else seemed to exist in the room. As a spectator, he too was riveted to the match. Estella feinted left, but Lady Manchester hadn’t been fooled and easily deflected the corresponding attack. The sounds of the foils bouncing off each other echoed through the room until they both disengaged and laughed. There had been no clear winner, yet both were invigorated by the exercise.
“Ryan,” Estella said gleefully. “I didn’t realize you were here. You should have spoken up.”
“I didn’t wish to interrupt your match.”
Lady Manchester collected the foils and carefully stored them away in a nearby cabinet. She turned to glance at him. “We could have fenced and conversed with you. I’m sure you’ve noticed—we’re quite talented.”
He chuckled lightly. Lady Manchester seemed to be well aware of her skills and didn’t shy away from boasting about them. “Still,” he began. “I enjoyed observing the two of you. It’s to my benefit to remain silent so you continued.”
Estella smiled at him. “You’re not used to ladies that are skilled with a foil.”
“Rapiers too,” Lady Manchester interjected. “But Garrick won’t let me use them. Even when I’m not pregnant, he has made them taboo.”
Rapiers tended to be sharp and not dulled like the foils the ladies had practiced with. There were foils that could be rather deadly too, but he suspected Lord Manchester wouldn’t allow his wife access to those. A man’s patience could only be driven so far. “I’m sure my opinion is in the minority in this room, but I agree with Lord Manchester’s dictates. There’s no need to endanger yourself with a sharpened rapier when you can attain the proper exercise and skill with a dulled foil.”
“You would agree.” Lady Manchester narrowed her gaze. “You’re a man, and all men seem to think they know what is best for what they believe is the weaker sex.” She tilted her lips up into an assured smile. “But don’t worry, my lord, I forgive you for your arrogance. After all, you can’t help how your male brain works.”
Ryan wanted to laugh again, but held it back. He didn’t wish to offend the countess. She had strong opinions, and he respected her for them. Plus, he was in no danger of falling in love with her. She loved her husband, and that was how it should be. Lady Annalise, on the other hand—something about her spoke to his soul. He’d seen sadness in her eyes that mirrored his own. That kind of connection was dangerous to his heart. He mentally shook the thought away and turned to his cousin. “I’m leaving soon, and I wished to bid you farewell.”
“Must you?” Her smile fell from her face. “You’ve barely been here, and now you’re leaving.”
“I have to return to my estate. There are matters I need to see to, and after that, I have to inspect a property I’m hoping to purchase.” He didn’t really like Cinderbury Manor. It came with his title, but there was something about it that seemed missing. The manor was meant for a family, and Ryan didn’t have one to fill it. One day he’d marry; however, he planned on pushing that off for as long as possible. When he did wed, it would be to a woman who he’d never fall in love with. He wouldn’t risk becoming a fool like his own father. His wedding would be one marked by duty to the family line and title—nothing more, nothing less. His heart wouldn’t be involved, and he’d remain protected from the worst sort of betrayal. So he would not become more acquainted with Lady Annalise. She already had power over him, and he hated it. He focused his gaze on his cousin. “I hope you understand why I must depart immediately.”
Estella sighed. “I do. Donovan and I are going to Warwick Manor in a couple of days anyway. At least promise me you’ll visit us there.”
“Of course,” he replied without hesitation. “I’ve missed you these past years. You are the one bright spot in my life. I don’t wish for us to become distant now that we’ve become reacquainted.”
She smiled at him. “Me either. Where is this property you’re viewing?”
“It’s a smaller house. Not as big as Cinderbury. I thought it might be a nice addition to the estate holdings that isn’t entailed.” He also rather liked the location. Not too far from London, but enough distance away as not to be bothered. “It’s in Saltford.”
“Near Bath?” She lifted a brow. “Do you plan on being active in society there? Are you ill and hope to be close enough to partake in the waters?”
He had no intention of going to Bath unless he had to. The small town of Saltford had all he needed. His social life would remain nonexistent. It would give him more time to focus on his business interests.
“I assure you I’m fine,” he consoled her. “I need some place for peace and quiet.”
“All right then.” She stepped toward him and wrapped her arms around him in a hug. “Take care of yourself and write to me often.”
“It’s a promise I can easily make.” He hugged her tightly. “Now I’m afraid I must go.”
She stepped back and looked up at him. “Before you do, can you make me another promise?”
“Anything.” He meant that too. Ryan had failed to protect her when she needed it most, and he wanted to do whatever he could for her now. “The Duke of Wolfton has an estate that isn’t far from Saltford. It’s why I recognized the name.”
His heart leaped in his chest. Saltford would be near Annalise, and if he purchased that property he might cross paths with her. That wouldn’t do at all… “Oh?” He frowned. “What is it you need from me?” He was almost afraid to ask, but he had to.
“It’s not Wolfton Castle—the ducal seat is in Kent, but the duke prefers his manor in Saltford. Less people around to notice anything nefarious he has planned. He’s more likely to be there and keep Annalise with him.” That was interesting. That might have been good information to have when he searched for Estella. She took a deep breath then continued, “If you can, will you call on her and ensure she’s all right? I fear the duke will punish her for helping me. Marrok can’t do anythi
ng to help her, and he’s more likely to stay in London. If he crosses the duke outwardly, the evil bastard will cut off his funds. He’s done it in the past, and Marrok had no choice but to cave. I know he’s been secretly working on building his own fortune; however, I’m not sure he’s succeeded. Annalise will need someone to look out for her.”
Ryan wasn’t sure he’d be much help in that regard. He hadn’t been able to assist Estella. What good would he be to Lady Annalise’s plight? The duke was a powerful man. His own grandfather wouldn’t go against him and they were both dukes. Ryan had never asked his grandfather why. Especially after he refused to fight him for guardianship over Estella—the Duke of Wolfton must have something over Ryan’s grandfather for him to back away. He didn’t believe he’d have given up on Estella otherwise.
“You must realize I’d do anything for you…”
“Don’t say you won’t help her,” Estella interrupted him. “I do understand you won’t be able to do much for Annalise. The duke is an awful man and his control is absolute. But if you give her the option to come to you if she needs someone, it might be enough. She’s close to reaching her majority, and then she might be able to free herself from the duke’s hold.”
Ryan sighed. “The next time I find myself in her company, I’ll extend the invitation for assistance if she should ever be in need of it.” Whether he wanted to or not… Estella didn’t often ask anything of him and it was the least he could do.
Estella hugged him again. “Thank you, my dear cousin. You are truly the most wonderful man.”
Ryan glanced up at the sound of footsteps echoing through the room. Estella’s husband rounded the corner and met his gaze. A wide grin filled his face as he closed the distance between them. “And I thought I held that title,” Viscount Warwick teased his wife.
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