Page 2 of A Villain for a Duke

“That’s what I thought.”He patted her hand.“It’s going to be a long evening.Entertaining.But long.Why don’t you get some rest now?”

She looked longingly at the open fields.“You’re right.All the same, I’d like to get some fresh air.”

“Astrid!”A high-pitched voice called out.“You’re here!”Bethany picked up her skirts and ran over to embrace her friend.“You’re early.”

“The roads were clear, so we made good time.”

“That’s wonderful.When the butler told me you were here, I almost didn’t believe him.Sadly, I have to help mother with a few last minute plans, otherwise I would keep you company.”

“Of course,” Astrid smiled, “help your mother.I had hoped to take a quick stroll.”

“In that case, be sure to check out the new rose garden mother started.It’s incredible.Just walk around the right side of the manor and you can’t miss it.”

“That sounds delightful.”

“I guess I’ll make do with something,” Isaac feigned dejection.

“You can join my cousin.He’s shooting out back.”

“Perfect.”Isaac nodded and left the women.

“It’s so good to have you here, Astrid.It’s been too long.I wish we could—”

“Please, go do what you need to do.We shall have an entire week together.”

With a quick embrace, she turned back and made her way inside.

And Astrid took off to wander around Altwan Manor in search of the rose garden Bethany had pointed out.Once she rounded the side of the house, she caught sight of her destination.Even from yards away she could see the vibrant hues of reds and pinks.Knowing that, she imagined the rich fragrance that was sure to greet her soon.From the large windows, many a guest must enjoy the view on a rainy day.

Just before she was able to reach the garden, two little voices rang out.

“I caught you!”a young girl, about five years old, shouted in glee.

“No, you didn’t.I didn’t feel anything,” the older boy retorted.He looked to be a few years older than her.

“Yes, I did.I touched your shirt.”

“Doesn’t count.”

“Does too.”

Astrid had an older brother and knew exactly where this could lead.“Hello, you two.Could you show me where the rose garden is?”

The boy scowled at her, but the little girl raced up and grabbed her hand.

“I can show you.”She had the most beautiful smile with two front teeth too large for her mouth still.

“Why do you want to go to the garden when there’s so much else to do?”the girl asked curiously.

“I love admiring the flowers and their scent.But…” she waited until the boy was paying her his full attention, “if you two know of something more fun…”

He scoffed.“I know all the fun things to do here.I live here.”

“You must be Charles.”His light brown hair matched two of his sisters.Even though it had been a while since she’d seen them, based on age, she could guess which of the siblings he was.

His eyes widened in surprise, as she proceeded to explain.“I’m friends with your sister, Bethany.You probably don’t remember me.”

“And I’m Isabelle,” the girl shouted, tugging on her hand.Astrid looked down at the youngest in the family.

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