“Another Christmas Alone,” She Thought — Until a Duke’s Carriage Broke Down at Her Gate
Chapter 19
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She waited. He looked at her with an openness she had not seen before."When I arrived here, I had convinced myself that my life had become a collection of duties: my estates, my title, my responsibilities to my family. I performed them because they were expected of me.""There is nothing dishonorable in duty.""No. But there is something rather sad in allowing it to become the whole of one's existence."Rosamond said nothing.Julian continued: "For years, I believed that enjoying life again would somehow diminish what I had lost.""Catherine?"He nodded. "I loved her. I still honor her memory. But somewhere along the way, I began to think that loyalty required me to remain unhappy."Rosamond's expression softened. "And now?"He looked around the room. "Now, I have spent three days laughing at burned eggs, being insulted by a terrier, and discovering that I am apparently incapable of repairing a gate without professional assistance."Rosamond smiled. "A remarkable education.""Indeed." His smile faded into something more tender. "And I have remembered what it feels like to look forward to tomorrow."Rosamond felt her eyes sting. She looked toward the fire. "Julian...""I am not asking anything of you," he said gently. "I would not insult you by pretending that three days are enough to know everything about another person." She looked back. "But they are enough," he continued, "to know when one wishes to learn more."The words settled between them. Rosamond could hear the clock ticking; outside, a bird called from the garden."What are you saying?" she asked softly.Julian took a careful breath. "I am asking whether I might visit you again."Rosamond stared. He smiled faintly."Preferably without destroying your property."A laugh escaped her. "You wish to visit Willowmere?""Very much.""As a guest?""As a gentleman who would like to know you better."Her heart was beating so quickly that she was certain he must hear it. She looked down. "I should like that."Julian's expression changed; hope appeared in his eyes. "Truly?""Yes." Then she lifted one finger. "However, I have conditions."He smiled. "I expected nothing less.""You must not arrive with a procession of servants.""Agreed.""You must not bring expensive gifts.""Understood.""And you must not imagine that because you are a duke, I shall agree with everything you say."Julian laughed. "Rosamond, I have been here three days. I assure you that particular illusion has been thoroughly destroyed."She smiled. "Then we understand one another."He stepped closer. "Not entirely."Her breath caught. "No?""I still have a great deal to learn about you.""And I about you.""Then perhaps we might begin."Rosamond looked at him, and for the first time, she allowed herself to hope without immediately searching for reasons to be afraid.