It was the day to meet Lord Hadley. Despite the sunny weather, the family seemed gloomy, especially Jane, whose sullen state contrasted with the clear skies. Wesley, their valet, helped them into the coach.“Thank you, Wesley,” Jane murmured.
Wesley bowed respectfully, but her father gave him an odd look.
“Please inform Mrs. Rose that we’ll return by noon,” James instructed.
Tension built during the ride, though Emily made an effort to lighten the mood. Glancing outside, she smiled.
“My! What a lovely day we’re having,” she said.
Beth looked out, noting the pleasant weather.
“Indeed, it is particularly sunny,” she agreed.
The coach soon arrived at Eckhart Manor, an imposing estate set against a backdrop of manicured lawns and lush gardens. The manor was a grand structure of pale stone, with tall, arched windows and a sweeping façade adorned with intricate carvings. Climbing ivy climbed the walls, and an elegant fountain graced the entrance, surrounded by blooming flower beds.
“Look at that lovely flower garden, Jane!” Emily exclaimed, her voice filled with admiration.
They were assisted out of the coach and ushered into the manor by Lord Hadley’s butler. The interior was equally impressive—gilded mouldings, rich tapestries, and polished marble floors gleamed under the soft light of crystal chandeliers. The walls were adorned with exquisite paintings and antique furniture.
The butler led them through the grand hall, filled with echoes of their footsteps, to the drawing room. Here, he offered them seats in plush velvet chairs and announced he would inform Lord Hadley of their arrival. Minutes later, a tall, elderly man entered, his presence commanding yet softened by the years. Lord Hadley’s sandy blonde hair, now streaked with grey, framed a face marked by pale skin and piercing blue eyes. His gaze was direct, and there was an undeniable resemblance between him and Jane.
“My Lord,” James greeted with a bow, while Beth and the girls curtsied.
Lord Hadley gestured for them to sit.
“Please, make yourselves comfortable,” he said, before turning to the butler.
“Have the maid bring some tea and biscuits.”
The butler nodded and departed. Soon, a maid arrived with a tray of tea and biscuits, setting it down on a nearby table. Jane studied Lord Hadley from behind the rim of her teacup, noting their shared height and some similar features.
“You must be Jane,” Lord Hadley said, his piercing gaze assessing her.
“Yes, my Lord,” Jane replied, meeting his stare with a cold expression.
Lord Hadley chuckled. “You have your mother’s look and resolve.”
Jane’s lips pressed into a thin line as James cleared his throat, giving Lord Hadley a pointed look.
“Ah yes, James,” Lord Hadley said, straightening. “I suppose you all wish to hear the full story, assuming Jane doesn’t strike me dead with her eyes.”
Emily glanced at Jane, silently urging her to remain calm.
“Sincerely, I apologise,” Lord Hadley continued.
“Years ago, my brother and I had a serious dispute over heir rights. As you know, only the firstborn son inherits the title, but this didn’t sit well with my brother,” he paused, observing the reactions in the room before continuing. “Your mother was pregnant with you at the time. With the feud escalating, I decided, with her permission, to place you in the Millers’ care for your safety.”
Jane’s voice cut through his explanation. “But what happened to my mother afterward?”
“If you would let me finish, I’ll tell you,” he said, his tone stern.
Beth gave Jane’s hand a gentle squeeze.
“When my father passed, I became the rightful heir. My brother disappeared to Italy, and the feud ended, but I couldn’t return you to the Eckhart estate just yet. I wasn’t sure of my brother’s whereabouts.”
“I kept in touch with the Millers, watching you grow. And now, here you are.” He smiled at Jane.
Jane’s face remained frosty. “I beg your pardon, Lord Hadley, but I am not returning here.”
A faint curl of amusement touched Lord Hadley’s lips.
“I wish to remain at the only place I’ve known as home,” Jane said firmly.
Lord Hadley’s hospitality remained intact despite her tone. “Your mother loved you dearly and wanted you here.”
Jane struggled to hold back a sharp retort.
“Besides, your stay with the Millers is no longer possible.” His expression was resolute.
“What does he mean by that, Papa?” Jane asked, her voice tinged with frustration.
James remained silent, his gaze downcast, while Beth looked away. Emily focused intently on a floral glass vase beside her.
“There was a contract,” Lord Hadley explained with a sour smile, “stating that you would be returned to Eckhart Manor upon turning nineteen. It was to avoid complications.”
“And tomorrow, my dear, you turn nineteen, which means you’ll be making this place your home.” His smile was sly.
Jane’s face drained of colour as she turned to James, who averted his gaze. Beth also refused to meet her eyes. All she received was a pitying glance from Emily. Overwhelmed, Jane stood abruptly and fled the room.
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Of love and deceit
RandomA damaged duke. A misunderstood duchess. A marriage forged in the fires of obligation. When Jane Hadley weds the enigmatic Duke of Heartland, neither of them could foresee the shadows that their union would cast. Bound by duty rather than desire, th...