Jane marvelled at the village festival, her eyes wide with delight. The entire village had transformed into a bustling fairground, with colourful banners fluttering in the breeze and the sound of lively music filling the air. Laughter and chatter blended with the cheerful melodies played by a local band.
Jane’s gaze was drawn to a particularly captivating performer—a man balancing a basket of oranges on his head while juggling eggs with a lighted stick held in his mouth.
The spectacle was both amusing and impressive, and Jane couldn't help but exclaim, “Isn’t that enticing?”
Her eyes sparkled with genuine excitement. Edward, ever the reserved gentleman, smiled faintly at her enthusiasm and offered her his arm.
“Shall we move to another stand?” he suggested, guiding her gently through the throng of festival-goers.
As they walked, Jane found herself leaning closer to Edward, her arm brushing against his. His warmth and the subtle scent of sandalwood that lingered about him were comforting.
Her cheeks flushed slightly as she recalled the tender moments they had shared, including their wedding kiss. Despite the formality of their marriage, she couldn’t help but feel a flutter of affection each time their hands or shoulders touched.
“Are you feeling well?” Edward asked, his gaze softening with concern as he looked down at her.
Jane quickly composed herself, her thoughts wandering from the festival to their new life together.
“Yes, I’m quite well, thank you,” she replied, her voice steady. “It’s been a delightful day.”
As the sun began its descent, casting a golden colour over the festival, Edward suggested they head back.
“Perhaps we should retire; it’s getting rather late,” he said.
Jane nodded in agreement, and Edward helped her into the awaiting carriage. The inside of the carriage was suited, with plush seats and soft, velvety cushions.
They sat opposite each other, the gentle rocking of the carriage lulling them into a thoughtful silence. Edward’s gaze lingered on Jane, a contemplative look in his eyes.
“Is everything alright, Edward?” Jane asked, noticing his intense stare.
Edward took a deep breath before speaking. “Do tell me, Jane, what are your interests?”
Jane blinked in surprise. “I beg your pardon?”
“I suppose if this marriage is to work, we should get to know more about each other,” Edward said, his tone surprisingly warm.
Jane hesitated for a moment before answering. “I do love reading, mostly fiction.”
Edward’s face lit up with a boyish grin, and Jane’s heart skipped a beat. “Hmm, I also enjoy literature, but I have a particular fondness for history and commerce.”
“That’s why you’re a duke,” Jane muttered under her breath.
Edward chuckled softly.
“Well, I suppose a duke should know something about history and commerce,” he said, his eyes twinkling with amusement.
Jane’s face flushed with embarrassment.
“Oh, I didn’t mean it that way,” she stumbled over her words.
“It’s not a problem, Jane,” Edward reassured her with a soft smile. “I enjoy those subjects, and it has nothing to do with my title.”
Jane thought for a moment. “How do you take your tea?”
“Plain,” Edward replied, “as opposed to your milk and sugar.”
Jane laughed heartily. “How do you know that?”
“I saw you the other day, almost dumping all the milk and sugar into your cup,” Edward whispered with a conspiratorial tone.
Jane’s laughter was infectious, and Edward found himself enjoying her company more than he had expected.
“My!” she exclaimed, trying to stifle her giggles. “I didn’t realise you were watching.”
Edward leaned in slightly.
“I suppose I was,” he said with a smirk.
Their conversation continued with increasing warmth. Edward asked about Jane’s favourite flower, and she replied, “Lilies.”
A wistful expression crossed Edward’s face.
“Those were my mother’s favourites,” he said quietly. “She passed away when I was very young.”
Jane’s heart ached for him.
“I’m so sorry,” she said softly. “I never knew my mother either. I was raised by the Millers due to a dispute between my father and his brother. It wasn't safe for me there.”
Edward’s eyes widened with curiosity. “The Millers? I thought Lord Hadley was your father.”
“He is,” Jane confirmed. “But I was sent to the Millers for safety, so I never knew my mother beyond what I’ve been told.”
“I’m sorry for your loss,” Edward said sincerely. “We’ve both lost someone dear to us.”
Jane, sensing a shift in the conversation, gently asked, “How did your father die?”
At the mention of his father, Edward’s expression darkened. His fists clenched involuntarily, and he took a deep breath to steady himself.
Jane noticed the change and quickly apologised. “I’m terribly sorry; I didn’t mean to pry.”
Edward remained silent, his gaze fixed on the window. The carriage ride home was marked by a dreary quietness. Jane, her earlier cheerfulness diminished, sat in silence. She had hoped to learn more about Edward and their future together, but the conversation had turned unexpectedly sad.
As they arrived at Heartland, Jane’s thoughts lingered on their conversation. Despite the shadows that had crept into their day, she hoped for brighter moments to come.
Poor Jane.
Oh come on, Edward, be good for once
Heart this chapter, dearest readers♥️
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Of love and deceit
Historical FictionA damaged duke. A misunderstood duchess. A marriage forged in the fires of obligation. Jane Miller's world shatters with the discovery of a devastating secret. Forced to leave behind the family she once cherished, burdened by her father's insurmount...
