Deviating from the original plot

Chapter eighty-nine

Slowly, she guided Celeste down onto the bed beside her. The two settled into each other's warmth, Victoria's arms encircling her protectively while Celeste nestled closer, her head resting against Victoria's chest.

Silence fell between them again, soft and comforting. The only sounds were the quiet rhythm of their breathing and the faint hum of the world beyond the walls.

Then Celeste lifted her head just enough to press a tender, lingering kiss to Victoria's collarbone. Victoria responded by running her fingers gently through Celeste's hair, her touch slow and soothing. They stayed like that—no words, no expectations—just two souls finding peace in each other's quiet presence.

✦ ✦

The next day, Celeste's mother came visiting.

Celeste received her in the sitting room, where sunlight filtered through the tall windows, bathing the room in a soft golden hue. Victoria sat quietly beside her.

"Lady Victoria," the Duchess began, her voice calm but carrying the weight of regret, "I wanted to thank you—for standing by Celeste through all of this."

Victoria inclined her head politely. "Celeste didn't deserve to suffer for her father's sins. None of this was her fault."

The Duchess smiled faintly, though tears shimmered in her eyes. "You remind me so much of your mother... she always chose kindness, even when the world gave her every reason not to."

Victoria's gaze softened. "You knew her well, didn't you? "

The Duchess nodded slowly, her expression distant with memory. "She was my dearest friend. I never forgave myself for what happened. I thought staying silent would keep the peace—but silence only allowed his cruelty to grow."

Celeste reached across and gently took her mother's hand. "It wasn't your fault. He threatened you... you were scared."

Her mother gave a trembling smile. "Perhaps. But I'm grateful it's over now. I'll be managing the estate until Rhyse is ready to inherit." She hesitated before asking, "Celeste, are you certain you don't want to come home?"

Victoria glanced at Celeste, surprised. "You don't want to go back?"

Celeste shook her head. "No... I'm happier here. I've finally found peace, and I don't want to lose that. I'm sorry, Mother."

The Duchess exhaled softly, her smile bittersweet. "No apology needed, my dear. Perhaps that's my fault, for not protecting you sooner." She wiped at her eyes and straightened. "Just know you'll always have a place at the estate—whether you wish to return or simply visit."

Celeste's lips curved into a gentle smile. "Of course, Mother. Thank you."

The Duchess nodded, composing herself. "Oh, and—Her Majesty sends her regards."

"Her Majesty? " Victoria asked, brows lifting.

"Yes," the Duchess replied. "You were rather close with her once, Celeste. She's even extended an invitation for tea."

"Oh..." Celeste murmured, a hint of unease flickering across her face. "Tea with the Queen... I haven't seen her in what feels like years. I wonder what she'll think of me now."

Victoria gave her a small, reassuring smile. "She'll understand. But you should go see her soon—it's been far too long."

Celeste met her gaze, drawing courage from it. "You're right... I'll go."

"That's the spirit," The duchess said warmly, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "I think she'll be glad to see you."

Celeste nodded, a soft smile tugging at her lips. They sat in companionable silence for a moment, the weight of the past easing slightly, replaced by the quiet anticipation of what was to come.