Page 2 of Trapped with the Earl of Sin

“Oh, Luke,” Mary declared as they headed inside. “It is wonderful to be here. Your home is even more beautiful than you described.”

Luke took her hands in his and kissed them gently. “I am glad you think so, Mary. I cannot wait to show you around.”

The hallway was adorned with elegant chandeliers, rich tapestries, and polished marble floors that echoed with their footsteps. It truly was the sort of home anyone would wantto show off. But the Dowager Countess seemed surprisingly modest and sweet.

“This way, please,” Tabitha said, leading them up a sweeping staircase. “We have prepared our finest rooms for your stay.”

As they ascended the staircase, Susanna noticed the intricate woodwork on the banisters and the impressive portraits of ancestors that lined the walls.

This was a glimpse into Luke’s life and the future of Mary as well.

When they reached the second floor, Tabitha stopped in front of a pair of double doors. “Mary, this will be your room. We hope you find it to your liking.”

Mary stepped forward, her eyes wide with awe as she took in the spacious chamber. The room was beautifully furnished with a four-poster bed draped in rich fabrics, a vanity table, and large windows that offered a breathtaking view of the gardens below.

“It is perfect,” Mary said, her voice filled with genuine delight. “Thank you so much.”

Tabitha smiled warmly. “We’re glad you like it. And Susanna, your room is just next door.”

Susanna’s room was equally luxurious, with a similar view of the gardens and a cozy sitting area. The Allen family were very gracious hosts.

“Let us get ready for dinner,” Mary hissed to her excitedly as she slipped into her own room. “Then I will come for you.”

Susanna unpacked her belongings and hung them up before she picked a gown to wear to dinner. She decided on a royal blue gown that she had always been told brought out the color of her eyes, and she ran a brush through her long dark hair in preparation for what was to come.

Susanna took a deep breath as she admired her reflection in the mirror. Not that she was massively concerned with how she looked. She knew that she just needed strength to care for Mary.

Seeing her smile again was magnificent. Something that seemed impossible not so long ago, and Susanna desperately hoped that she stayed that happy.

A gentle knock on the door interrupted her thoughts. “Susanna, are you ready?” Mary’s voice called softly from the other side.

“Yes, coming!” Susanna replied, giving herself one last glance before opening the door.

Mary stood there, looking radiant in a soft pink gown that complemented her complexion perfectly. Her hair was styled in loose waves, and a sense of calm had settled over her. She smiled warmly at Susanna. “You look beautiful.”

“As do you,” Susanna said, taking her sister’s hand. “Shall we go?”

Mary linked her arm with Susanna’s as they made their way to the grand staircase.

“Are you nervous about our first dinner here?” Susanna asked.

“Oh no.” Mary chuckled and shook her head. “The family has been so kind to me so far. I think it is going to be a lot of fun staying here.”

“And planning your wedding too.”

Mary let out a little squeal of excitement. “Lady Standen is very excited about the wedding. As long as the weather stays nice, we can pick a day for it and start planning.”

Susanna’s pulse pounded.

So far, everything seemed utterly wonderful, but she could not shake off the worry that things might go wrong. Just as they had done last time Mary was engaged.

But of course, she did not say that aloud. “I am sure it will be beautiful.”

Once they reached the dining table, it seemed like everyone was already waiting for them. Nerves started to zig-zag through Susanna as she spotted the other guests staying at Standen Abbey in preparation for the wedding.

“How lovely to have you,” Tabitha declared with a warm smile. “As you can see, we have some other guests here. Allow me to introduce you to Martin Rayment, the Earl of St. Clair, and his mother Abigail Rayment, the Dowager Countess of St. Clair.”

“Nice to meet you,” Mary said giddily. “I am Lady Mary Creasey, and this is my sister Susanna.”

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