The day was sunlit and warm, casting a golden glow over Heartland’s sprawling gardens. Jane and Emily sat on a garden bench, the vibrant colours of the blooms around them enhancing the serene atmosphere.
Jane was lost in a novel while Emily sipped her tea, her gaze occasionally drifting toward the lively interaction between Edward and his friend, Lord Charles, the Viscount of Chesterfield.
“You did not tell me the Viscount was so handsome,” Emily remarked, her tone tinged with playful admiration as she looked at Jane with a pointed stare.
Jane, startled from her reading, glanced up and tried to maintain her composure. “Emily, hush now! We’re in public.”
Emily rolled her eyes with a mischievous grin. “Oh, come now, Jane. I’m a woman now. I made my debut last season, remember?”
“Of course, who could forget?” Jane replied dryly, a hint of a smile tugging at her lips.
Emily’s laughter was light and infectious.
“But he is indeed a fine gentleman. I must agree with you there.” Jane couldn’t help but chuckle at her sister’s antics.
“Yes, he is quite charming,” Emily said.
Lord Charles, a tall and striking figure with an air of easy charm, was indeed an impressive sight. With his dark chestnut hair neatly combed and his impeccably tailored attire, he exuded a casual elegance that was hard to ignore.
His broad shoulders and warm, expressive eyes made him an engaging presence. Edward had introduced him as his old friend from Eton, and Jane found his appearance both refreshing and respectful.
The two men had been strolling the garden, their conversation punctuated by bursts of laughter. Charles had a jovial manner that contrasted sharply with Edward’s usual reserve.
“You have a beautiful wife, Edward,” Charles remarked with genuine admiration as he regarded Jane. “Tell me, how did you manage to be so fortunate?”
Edward, standing beside his friend, watched Jane with a subtle appreciation. He noted the way her golden curls glistened in the sunlight and how her blue eyes seemed to shine with joy whenever she laughed.
A clearing of his throat brought Edward back to the present. Charles’s gaze was now fixed on him, a knowing smile playing on his lips.
“What?” Edward asked, puzzled by the amused expression.
Charles leaned closer, his grin widening. “You have the look of someone in love.”
“I certainly do not!” Edward retorted abruptly, causing Charles to raise a brow in surprise.
“I had already explained to you the issues surrounding our marriage,” he said firmly.
Charles’ expression turned thoughtful.
“That’s no reason not to fall in love,” he pointed out gently.
Edward smirked.
“Look who’s talking about love,” he said mockingly. “I take it you’ve repented from your whorish ways?”
Charles laughed heartily. “Come now, Edward. What’s life without a bit of pleasure?”
Edward gave him a disapproving look. “When do you plan on settling down, Charles?”
Charles’s laughter only grew louder. “Oh my! This is coming from a man who once vowed never to marry!”
He shook with uncontrollable mirth.
Edward’s eyes narrowed. “I sound quite comical, don’t I?”
Charles paused, managing to compose himself enough to nod.
“The circumstances are quite different here,” Edward continued in a lower voice. “It was either I get married or forfeit my title.”
“Easy there, brother,” Charles said soothingly. “Your father was wrong in imposing such a condition, and I hope you will one day find it in your heart to forgive him.”
Edward chose silence, contemplating his present circumstances. He had accepted the reality of his marriage, knowing it was a sacrifice for the sake of his dukedom. He had chosen to bear the cost, believing that Jane, while not the woman he would have chosen out of love, was still a worthy companion.
He hoped that over time, they would grow to understand each other and fulfil their roles as husband and wife. Love was not part of the equation, a concept he had never fully grasped and therefore could not offer.
“I should depart early,” Charles announced, glancing at the setting sun. “The inn is quite a distance, and I fear the roads may not be safe after dark.”
“I hope to see you at breakfast tomorrow,” Edward said, extending his hand in a gesture of farewell.
Charles accepted the handshake with a nod. “Certainly. I’ll be there.”
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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...
