Of love and deceit

Chapter Twenty-Three

So above is Jane's wedding gown
How do y'all like it?

Warning: This chapter contains sexual scenes. Read at your own discretion.

The carriage ride home was silent. Jane had taken to staring out the window with different thoughts churning through her. The sun had dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden hue over the Heartland estate as Jane and Edward arrived.

The newlyweds were greeted with a flurry of activity marking their arrival at their new home. The grand carriage rolled to a stop in front of the sprawling manor, its stone edifice illuminated by the soft glow of lanterns lining the entrance. The stately home, with its ivy-clad walls and elegantly manicured gardens, seemed to exude a sense of both history and nobility.

As Jane stepped out of the carriage, her heart fluttered with apprehension. Edward was by her side, his hands clasped behind him. The manor's main entrance opened to reveal a long, marble-floored hall, flanked by tall columns and adorned with richly tapestried walls. The air was filled with the subtle fragrance of freshly cut flowers.

"Welcome to Heartland, Jane," Edward said softly.

A tall, dignified butler named Mr. Jones stepped forward, bowing deeply. His impeccably tailored black suit and polished shoes spoke of his years of service and dedication.

"Your Grace," he addressed them, "I trust the journey was pleasant?"

"Quite," Edward replied, nodding. "Mr. Jones, I would like you to meet my wife, the new duchess, Lady Jane."

Mr. Jones inclined his head towards Jane. "It is an honour, my lady. May I introduce the staff who will be attending to your needs."

With that, a procession of servants and staff members appeared from the wings of the grand hall. Each was dressed in neat, formal attire-maids in crisp, white aprons and housekeepers in stately gowns.

Jane was introduced to each member: the head housekeeper, Mrs. Green, a kindly woman with a warm smile; the cook, Mrs. Bramble, whose reputation for exquisite meals preceded her; and various footmen and maids, all of whom greeted Jane with respectful nods and courteous smiles.

As Jane took in the bustling activity around her, she felt a mixture of awe. The grandeur of Heartland estate was overwhelming, and the number of staff members and their efficiency highlighted the high expectations and responsibilities that now lay before her.

After the introductions, Edward guided Jane up the grand staircase. The corridor leading to their quarters was lined with exquisite paintings and delicate porcelain figurines.

When they arrived at their bedroom, Edward opened the door to reveal a spacious and elegantly decorated room. The walls were covered in rich, damask fabric of deep emerald green, contrasting beautifully with the gleaming wooden floors. The room was softly illuminated by the glow of a chandelier hanging from the ornate ceiling, its crystals catching the light and casting a warm, romantic glow.

Jane's eyes were drawn to the large, canopied bed at the centre of the room. The bed's draped canopy was adorned with intricate embroidery, and its silken sheets were neatly arranged. The headboard was carved with delicate patterns, and the bedding was covered in a lavish, deep-green velvet.

The room also featured a cosy sitting area by the window, with two comfortable armchairs and a small table adorned with a vase of fresh flowers. The window offered a view of the moonlit gardens below, their beauty enhanced by the soft night light. Jane turned to Edward, her heart racing.

"It's beautiful," she whispered, her voice trembling slightly.

Edward's gaze softened as he stepped closer to her.