Of love and deceit

Epilogue

The course of true love never did run smooth.

—William Shakespeare: A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

“Mama, Robert’s running away with my doll again!” A small girl’s voice, high and upset, echoed through the grand halls of Heartland House. 

Amelia, with her dark blonde curls cascading down her back and bright blue eyes that mirrored her mother’s, ran with tiny, determined steps, her pink frock swishing with each movement.

“Robert, please return Amelia’s doll,” their mother’s voice called out, weary from the repeated squabbles.

“But Mama, she’s hiding my knight!” Robert, with his mop of dark hair and striking grey eyes, pouted in indignation. His pale cheeks flushed with frustration, and his blue and white striped trousers looked rumpled from play.

“You ruined my tea party!” Amelia’s voice was an irate squeak, her hands placed on her little hips, the frills of her white lace collar fluttering.

“Did not!” Robert countered, his hands clutching his toy soldiers.

“Did too, you little—” Amelia’s outburst was cut short by their mother’s firm tone.

“Amelia! Mind your words,” their mother chided, a touch of exasperation in her voice. “Now both of you, apologise.”

The children muttered their apologies, their faces scrunched with reluctant compliance. Their mother, dressed in a flowing gown of deep emerald, her hair neatly pinned up, guided them towards the house, her tone softening. “Come along now, let’s get you ready for the party.”

Inside the grand drawing room, festooned with colourful streamers and blooming floral arrangements, Jane was surrounded by her family. The room was adorned with delicate garlands and sparkling chandeliers that cast a warm, inviting glow. Beth enveloped her in a loving embrace, her grey dress with a touch of lavender matching the soft hues of the room.

“It’s wonderful to see you, dear,” Beth’s voice was gentle as she planted kisses on Jane’s cheeks.

“And you as well, Jane,” James wrapped her in an affectionate hug. His dark suit, elegant yet simple, spoke of both his stature and his warmth.

“Thank you both for coming,” Jane said, her eyes reflecting deep gratitude.

“Nonsense, child,” he waved off her thanks with a warm laugh. “We would not miss our grandchildren’s birthday for the world.”

As Beth spotted the twins, she exclaimed, “Oh, look at my lovelies!” 

The children rushed to her, their faces alight with joy. Amelia’s frock was now complemented by a white satin ribbon tied neatly in her hair, while Robert’s blue vest and matching trousers were adorned with tiny gold buttons, making him look every bit the little gentleman.

Their governess, Theresa, suddenly appeared with a hint of distress. 

“Pardon me, Your Grace,” she curtsied to Jane. “The little miss will not allow me to tie the other ribbon.”

“It’s quite alright, Theresa,” Jane reassured her with a smile. “Let me handle it.”

Jane took the ribbon from Theresa and deftly tied it in Amelia’s hair, smoothing her gown as she did so. Amelia twirled, showing off her elegant dress, and Jane smiled warmly, her eyes shining with motherly pride.

“Your mother would be so proud, dear Jane,” Lord Hadley said, his voice tinged with nostalgia. His own eyes misted as he observed his daughter, his emotions clearly reflected in his weathered face.

Jane blinked back tears. “I miss her every day, Father.”

“We all do,” Lord Hadley’s voice softened. “Not a day passes without her in my thoughts.”

He turned to embrace his grandchildren, his face beaming with pride as he presented them with gifts. The room erupted into squeals of delight as the children tore open brightly wrapped packages. Amelia’s eyes widened at a new doll, while Robert’s excitement was visible as he unwrapped a set of toy soldiers.

“Father,” Jane teased with a laugh, “it’s a bit early for presents.”

“There’s no such thing as too early for my grandchildren,” Lord Hadley assured her with a wink. 

Emily, standing by Jane’s side, hugged her warmly. “I’m glad you both made peace,” she said softly. “I’m truly happy for you, Jane.”

“Thank you, Emily,” Jane responded, her voice thick with emotion.

“Look who’s here, children!” Emily announced as Edward entered the room, his presence causing a new wave of excitement.

“Papa!” Both children cried out, rushing to their father, their faces lit up with joy.

“Did the party start without me?” Edward feigned surprise, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

“Look what Grandpa gave me!” Amelia exclaimed, hugging her new doll tightly. 

“And he gave me a new set of soldiers!” Robert added with gusto, his excitement palpable.

“As long as you keep that doll away from my soldiers,” Robert teased, but Amelia simply glared before blowing a raspberry at him.

“Now, children,” their father said, trying to bring a semblance of order to the playful chaos. “Behave yourselves. And Robert, stop fussing with your cravat.”

“But it’s hot, Father,” Robert protested, his cheeks flushed.

Jane stood beside Edward, her heart swelling with contentment.

“We were waiting for you to arrive,” she said, her smile radiant. “The children simply couldn’t settle down.”

“I’m here now,” Edward replied, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to her lips. “We can begin.”

Jane beamed as she looked around at her family, the warmth of their love enveloping her. Her world felt complete, a testament to the profound truth that love is the greatest force of nature. She was fulfilled, her heart brimming with happiness. As laughter and joy filled the room, Jane and Edward stood together, their hands intertwined and their hearts united. The past was healed, the present embraced, and the future awaited with hope and love.

Big awwwwww🥺🥺🥺
It is indeed a happy ending.
This is the end of the book, guys
I hope you loved it
So an author note is coming up later so stay posted
Till then, ciao
Will forever love y'all

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