Page 38 of A Marriage for the Marquess

As he passed a bush, he carefully picked a violet-blue bloom and handed it to Juliet. “It’s not what I want. But there is little choice.”

“I understand the necessity. We don’t have to like it.”

“No, we don’t.” They moved on.

“The bouquet,” Juliet sniffed the bloom he gave her, “was thoughtful of you, to say nothing of its beauty. Duncan mentioned you selected each bloom.”

A smile found its way to Glenraven’s face. “There was so much you gave up for your wedding. I hoped that the flowers might brighten the day. Yet, it was you who were the most breathtaking flower. And I will say we made a handsome couple in our matched attire, you in your dark green gown and me in my bottle-green coat.”

“We both chose the same color. Does that mean we are ‘well suited.’”

A soft chuckle escaped Glenraven as he caught the playful twinkle in Juliet’s eye. “Indeed, we are ‘well suited’ in more ways than one.” The delight in his voice mingled with the afternoon air. They continued their stroll, the shared humor drawing them closer together.

As they neared the summerhouse, he halted beside a venerable stone statue of Artemis, goddess of the hunt, which stood sentinel at the entrance. With a conspiratorial wink, he reached behind the quiver slung over the deity’s shoulder, his fingers brushing against the hidden niche to the divine huntress. He pulled out a small, aged, and ornate key and unlocked the door. At the threshold Juliet could see it was a place untouched by time, where the outside world could not intrude.

“The summerhouse was built by my great-great-great grandfather as a gift to his new bride. It has sturdy stone walls that have weathered over time.”

Juliet’s gaze swept across the summerhouse, her eyes landing on the small, lattice-paned windows. She took a deep breath, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the delicate pattern on her wedding ring.

She glanced out of it and was rewarded with a view of the garden. “It’s beautiful.” Her voice, full of awe and nervousness, was barely audible. “Almost like a dream.”

The walls painted a soft buttery yellow with crisp white wainscoting, created a cozy warmth. She ran her fingers over the antique wooden furniture—a sturdy table set in the center of the room, flanked by matching chairs, and a sideboard resting against the far wall, all polished to a gentle sheen. Along one side of the room was a modest bed draped with handmade quilts. The scent of aged wood, enriched by the delicate fragrance of dried herbs hanging from the beams, filled the air, creating aroom steeped in history and charm. A comfortable armchair and a plush sofa were positioned by the hearth, promising warmth and hearthside cooking. Behind the sofa was a small table with a chess set, ready to play, with two chairs placed on either side.

Glenraven gently closed the door behind them, the soft click a final pause to the world outside. They moved toward the sofa, their steps in quiet harmony. He paused a moment for the stillness of the summerhouse to settle around them.

“I hoped you’d like the cottage. This place,” he spoke softly, “is where we can speak freely, away from prying eyes. I want you to feel as much at home here as I do.”

Juliet turned to him, her eyes searching his face. “You’re correct. This isn’t what either of us planned.” Her voice trembled slightly. “But I’m glad we’re here together.” She picked up the queen and placed it back on the chess board.

“Shall we play?” Ewan asked with a smile, as he held out the chair for her.

Juliet nodded, her fingers delicately placing the knights and bishops. “It’s been too long since our last match. Let’s see if I can still outmaneuver you.”

Ewan chuckled, his eyes twinkling. “I doubt I’ve improved much. But let’s talk as we play. There are important matters we need to discuss.”

Juliet mirrored his move, her eyes focused on the board. “Agreed. Where shall we start?”

Chapter Twenty-Two

Ewan paused, consideringhis next move. “First, the matter of our residences. We’ll maintain separate households but engage in public courting to uphold appearances.”

Juliet considered this, her fingers absently tracing the delicate pattern on a chess piece. “Yes, I think that will keep the gossip at bay. It will also give us time to get to know each other better.”

Ewan nodded, capturing one of her pawns. “For our communication, I suggest Duncan assists us. He can relay messages and ensure discretion.”

Juliet smiled, appreciating his foresight. “Duncan is trustworthy. That arrangement works well for me.”

She moved her bishop, capturing his knight. Ewan nodded, impressed. “Regarding our finances, the terms of our marriage contract will be enacted today. Hughes will oversee the process and ensure everything is in order.”

Juliet looked up, her eyes meeting his. “I trust Hughes to handle it efficiently. It’s a relief to have that settled.”

Ewan studied the board, then moved his rook. “We should also respect each other’s privacy. Our separate lives will give us the space we need.”

Juliet’s fingers traced the edge of a pawn as she considered her move. “Privacy is important. It will help us adjust to this new arrangement without feeling overwhelmed.”

She advanced her queen, creating a strategic threat. Ewan raised an eyebrow, a smile playing on his lips. “Lastly, any future decisions, including potential children or changes to our living arrangements, will be discussed and mutually agreed upon.”

Juliet leaned back, her gaze thoughtful. “Communication will be key. We need to ensure we both feel heard and respected.”

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