Page 25 of His Godsent Duchess
Kitty's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Even from villainous governesses?"
Christina chuckled. "Indeed. And from dragons, if need be."
She sat and reached for the basket of muffins and brioche, placing a few on her plate before spreading a bit of butter over one. Kitty poured tea from the pot and handed her a cup, which Christina accepted gratefully.
The quiet contentment of the moment was interrupted when Smith entered the room, holding a missive in his hand. For a brief moment, Christina's heart quickened, hoping it might be from Kilton. But the seal on the letter revealed otherwise. Her thoughts of Victor vanished as she quickly opened it, recognizing her sister Annabelle's neat scrawl.
Dearest Christina,
I am so very excited to be coming to Kent! Father says I may leave London tomorrow, and I cannot wait to see you again. I look forward to meeting the young ladies you spoke of—Katherine, Cassidy, Amelia, and Agnes. Please tell them I shall arrive soon. And Kilton Castle! I am beside myself with excitement to see it.
Yours most lovingly,
Annabelle.
Christina smiled at the letter, her heart swelling with fondness. "Kitty," she said, her voice light, "I have wonderful news. My sister Annabelle will be arriving in two days. She is quite excited to meet all of you."
Kitty looked positively thrilled, her happiness only amplifying Christina's own. She took a small bite of her muffin, savoring the moment of peace before turning to Kitty again.
"Do you know where your father is this morning?" Christina asked, trying to keep her tone light though her heart felt slightly heavier at the mention of him.
Kitty shook her head. "I've not seen him today. Perhaps he is out on business?"
Christina nodded, trying not to let her perplexing feelings rise to the surface. She continued with her breakfast, but her mind kept returning to the puzzle that was her husband.What did I do to him?
"Agnes, you must return Carrot to the castle," Kitty's voice echoed through the courtyard as Christina stepped out from the castle doors. She paused at the top of the steps, her gaze sweeping over the four girls gathered near the carriage. Agnes, ever the determined one, clutched Carrot tightly to her chest, the kitten purring contentedly in her arms.
"Mother, may we take him with us?" Agnes asked, her wide eyes filled with hope.
Mother. The word warmed Christina's heart in a way she had not anticipated. Smiling gently, she stepped toward Agnes, crouching to meet the little girl at eye level.
"My darling, I fear Carrot may grow restless on the journey," Christina explained softly. "He is still very small, and something might frighten him. It would be better if he stayed here where he is safe."
Agnes lowered her gaze to the kitten, her small brow furrowing with thought. After a moment, she nodded, though reluctantly. "Very well, Mother," she sighed and handed Carrot to the waiting footman.
Christina's heart swelled at Agnes's sweet compliance. She touched her cheek lightly. "Thank you, my love. Now, come—there is much to do today."
Agnes's spirits lifted at once, and she darted toward the carriage, climbing inside without waiting for assistance. Kitty, ever poised, took the footman's offered hand and stepped into the carriage with grace. Christina followed, settling herself next to the girls.
Once inside, Cassidy and Amelia were already seated, their faces glowing with excitement.
"Mother, we cannot wait to meet Annabelle!" Cassidy exclaimed, practically bouncing in her seat.
"We have so much to show her!" Amelia added. "The brook, the old oak, and the termites! She must see everything!"
Christina smiled indulgently at their eagerness. "I am certain Annabelle will delight in your discoveries."
As the carriage rolled forward, Addison joined them, her presence quiet yet reassuring. They traveled in comfortable silence for a time, the gentle clatter of the wheels soothing Christina's nerves.
However, Cassidy's curious voice soon interrupted the calm. "Mother, why is Miss Peversly still in the castle? I thought Father dismissed her."
Amelia chimed in before Christina could respond. "Father said she could stay until they found someone new."
Agnes wrinkled her nose in distaste. "I hope it's soon. I don't like seeing her around."
Kitty nodded solemnly. "She stands in the shadows, watching us. It is quite unsettling."
Christina offered a reassuring smile. "It will not be long now, I promise. Soon, all will be well."
