Page 73 of A Virgin for the Forbidden Duke

Mary, unwilling to concede, pressed on, “Love alone cannot sustain a family’s reputation. You’re being impulsive and reckless.”

Agnes responded, “Maybe it’s time we redefine what matters to this family. Rose’s choices were her own, and my choices will be mine, too.”

In the midst of this familial clash, Agnes remained unyielding. The air crackled with tension until, finally, her parents reluctantly relented.

The truce was fragile, an uneasy peace settling over them. Agnes, with a mix of relief and defiance, knew that the challenges ahead would be formidable.

The echo of Matthew’s promise resonated within her, a guiding melody that whispered of love, independence, and a future she dared to forge on her terms.

* * *

The next morning, the sun painted the sky with the hues of dawn, and Agnes awoke with a radiant smile.

The events of the previous night unfolded in her mind like scenes from a cherished dream. She traced the contours of the room, each familiar piece of furniture now adorned with the glow of love.

While dressing, Agnes’s newfound lightness caught Peggy’s attention.

Peggy, observant as ever, couldn’t help but comment on the change she sensed in Agnes. “You seem different, Miss Agnes. Happier,” she remarked.

Agnes, still basking in the afterglow of love, shared a secret smile with Peggy. “I am, Peggy. I’ve made a decision for my happiness, and it feels liberating.”

Peggy’s eyes gleamed with approval. “It suits you, Miss Agnes. This new aura around you—it’s like a breath of fresh air. I’m happy for you.”

Agnes thanked Peggy sincerely, appreciating the support of the one person who had been a constant in her life. With a heart brimming with joy, she embraced the day, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

Agnes dressed with newfound lightness, her movements guided by the memory of Matthew’s touch. The joy in her heart resonated in the soft hums that escaped her lips, a melody of contentment that echoed through the halls of Grouton Manor.

As she descended the staircase, the household staff glanced at her with curious eyes. The change in her demeanor did not go unnoticed, and Agnes, for the first time, felt a sense of liberation from the carefully crafted facade she had worn for years.

Her mother, however, greeted her with a stern expression. “Agnes, I know I always say your actions will go without consequences. There are expectations, responsibilities—”

But Agnes, fueled by the warmth of love, interrupted her with a calm resolve. “Mother, I understand the weight of our responsibilities, but I’ve found something worth fighting for. Matthew and I have a connection that transcends societal norms.”

The words hung in the air, a declaration of independence, and Agnes, with newfound courage, met her mother’s disapproving gaze, which looked better than her usual gazes.

Could her words have gotten to her mother? Could she be having a change of mind?

It wouldn’t change anything if she didn’t. I’ve made up my mind.

Throughout the day, Agnes navigated the estate with a grace that mirrored the dance of her heart. The whispers of servants and the sidelong glances of family members became inconsequential in the grand tapestry of her newfound happiness.

The anticipation of Matthew’s visit fueled her every step. As the day unfolded, Agnes reveled in hers and Matthew’s time together, a silent acknowledgment of the love that now colored her world.

In the late afternoon, Peggy approached Agnes with a discreet smile, delivering the news of the Duke of Huntington’s arrival. Agnes’s heart quickened with excitement, her cheeks flushing with a rosy hue as she received the news. This was the moment she had been eagerly anticipating.

As Agnes made her way to the garden, her parents’ scrutinizing eyes bored into the Duke of Huntington. Undeterred, she ignored their disapproving glances and ran to meet Matthew, a bright smile illuminating her face. His smile created a private world within the public gaze.

Mary’s disapproving gaze fell on Agnes, and she spoke in a hushed yet stern tone, “Agnes, this is highly inappropriate. Leave the man’s company at once. You’re behaving in an unladylike manner.”

Agnes, a mixture of nerves and determination in her eyes, faced her mother. “Mother, please, let me speak for myself. Your Grace, I appreciate your interest, and I’m open to the idea of courting.”

Matthew, maintaining his composure, addressed Mary with a respectful nod. “My Lady, I assure you, my intentions are sincere. I hold Miss Agnes in the highest regard and seek only to court her with your blessing.”

Mary, visibly displeased, shot a cautionary look at Agnes, silently conveying her disapproval.

In the delicate dance of courtship, Agnes joined her mother’s side, her eyes fixed on Matthew. Her mother, with a disapproving glance, commented on the unladylike nature of her actions. Still, Agnes remained undeterred, her heart pounding with the thrill of the unexpected courtship proposal.

Matthew, maintaining his composure, addressed Mary and Benedict with a respectful nod. “My Lady, My Lord, I would be honored to formally request your permission to court your daughter. I hold Miss Agnes in the highest regard and seek your blessing in this endeavor.”

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