Page 24 of The Duke of Fire
Lost in thought, both stared into the distance for a moment and let the surroundings envelop them. Comfort them. Amelia traced the rim of her teacup. She was with Serenity, but a part of her still felt alone. It was because she could not tell her everything.
“It is time for something good to happen to you,” Serenity broke the silence. “You have sacrificed too much. Finch does not deserve a sister who waited hand and foot for his wife. He deserves nothing, being so spineless.”
“Sacrifices. Everyone does that,” Amelia said, undermining her own strength. “I am not a saint, Serenity.”
“You may not be, but you are loyal and smart. You are also strong. I do not think I could last one day under Octavia’s thumb. I do hope and pray the dowager can see your virtues. May she find you a good match that can help you escape Finchand Octavia forever.”
Amelia’s heart clenched at the thought. Serenity did not know that she was not after a match. She was not after a marriage because soon she might be ruined for it. All she needed was a chance at a new life, a future that did not come with a husband’s name but her own freedom.
A footman approached them, startling them from their little bubble. They must have been so engrossed in their conversation that they did not notice the servant until he was up close. He carried a silver tray. On it lay a cream-colored missive. Her name was on it.
“A letter for you, Miss Warton,” the footman said, bowing courteously. “It was delivered by someone on horseback. He quickly left the vicinity.”
Another letter?
She reached for the missive, which was faintly scented. Her fingers trembled even as she tried to steady them. She did not want Serenity to be suspicious.
The seal had already been broken as was the regular practice. Was the duke serious about staking a claim on her? Was having a letter delivered to her friend’s place a way for him to do just that?
“Is it from your brother?” Serenity asked, her brows furrowed with concern.
“It does not look like it,” Amelia murmured as she unfolded the letter. She already knew who the sender was, but she could not tell her friend that.
She skimmed the words. Her stomach dropped, but she maintained her composure.
I find myself intrigued by your particular brand of curiosity, Miss Warton. If you are brave enough to explore it, come to Firaine House. Tonight. You will be safe. But not untouched.
Amelia read the note twice. Three times. The meaning had not changed, and it made her blush. She could feel the blood rushing to her cheeks and chest.
“Amelia? Are you all right? Is it bad news?”
She turned to her friend after shoving the letter into her reticule. “No. Nothing. I am just surprised, is all.”
Serenity did not look convinced. “Who was the letter from, then?”
“Nobody important.”
Amelia could only wish that she would not lose her friendship this way. Serenity was already looking at her suspiciously. Oh, if only she could tell her everything and not risk everything, too.
“Is this related to the dowager duchess’s sponsorship? I imagine she is one of the few who would watch your every move closely now, having delivered the letter to my home, not yours.”
“I doubt she would go that far,” Amelia murmured, though she was not so certain anymore.
“Don’t say that,” Serenity insisted, frowning. “I just hope she is not put off because you are friends with me. My sister may be tucked away in the countryside, but thetonhas not forgotten her scandal. I would hate to ruin this for you.”
“Anastasia?” Amelia prompted softly.
“Yes. I am sure the dowager knows everything about her and what happened. Everyone does,” Serenity sighed, a faint bitterness lacing her words.
“I am certain this has nothing to do with it,” Amelia said smoothly, her stomach knotting.
“Perhaps she is setting a challenge for you. A test to prove your worth?” Serenity offered, trying to make sense of it all.
“Perhaps,” Amelia allowed, forcing a small smile. “Whatever it is, I will try my best.”
“Well, the best thing you can do,” Serenity declared with mock sternness, “is to keep yourself out of any sort of scandal. Her grandson may be a notorious rake, but I daresay she expects pristine behavior from young ladies.”
The irony nearly made Amelia choke on her tea.
