Page 12 of His Godsent Duchess
Later that evening, as Christina sat on her bed, stretching her neck and reflecting on the day's events, she felt the weight of exhaustion settle over her. The grandeur of Kilton Castle, the introductions, and the overwhelming emotions had taken their toll. Just as she was about to let out a weary sigh, she heard a soft knock on the door.
"Yes?" she called.
The door opened slowly, and Agnes walked in, clutching a woolen doll. She was barefoot, wearing a white nightdress, and her chestnut hair fell in loose waves around her shoulders. Agnes looked from left to right as if checking to ensure no one could see her before stepping into the room on the tips of her toes and closing the door quietly.
When she reached Christina, she whispered, "I came to bring you a friend." She placed the stuffed woolen doll in Christina's hands. "This is Margaret, my favorite doll. I brought her to keep you company while Father is away."
Christina's heart both tightened and bloomed at the same time. She gazed at the doll, her emotions swirling. "Agnes, you should not part with your favorite doll on my account."
Agnes shook her head, her eyes earnest. "I don't mind, Your Grace. I want you to have her."
Christina hugged Agnes tightly, feeling a surge of affection for the little girl. "Thank you, Agnes. You are very kind."
They bid each other good night, and Agnes sneaked out of the room as quietly as she had come. Christina looked down at the doll, hope and apprehension filling her heart.
She sighed softly, wondering if her new life would indeed hold the meaning she intended for it.
Christina smiled at the maid who was helping her dress the morning after her wedding, accepting the pair of pearl earrings she proffered.
Suddenly, they heard footsteps and giggles. Christina immediately felt a thrill of excitement and rose from her seat. "I have been wondering when the children would come," she said eagerly. A knock sounded on the bedchamber door as she stepped out of the dressing chamber. She hurried to open it, and the sight before her was almost overwhelming.
The girls were talking over one another, their voices a cheerful cacophony barely making any sense. Agnes clutched Carrot, grinning widely, while her lady's maid, Addison, stood nearby, looking utterly bewildered.
"Ladies," Christina called, trying to capture their attention. They all quieted, looking at her expectantly. She smiled warmly. "I will understand you better if you speak one at a time."
They all nodded, and Katherine stepped forward into the room. "Miss Addison just arrived with the most adorable little creature," she announced.
Agnes raised Carrot, holding him by his armpits. The kitten seemed to be enjoying both the hold and the company. "He's orange!" she gushed.
Cassidy chimed in excitedly, "We learned his name is Carrot, and I'm so glad he's here."
Amelia added, "Father never allows pets, not even a fish."
Agnes piped up, "the last time I asked for a fish, he threatened to have Cook make dinner with it if we brought it into the house."
Christina shook her head, leaning down to kiss Carrot's forehead. "Carrot is mine, and he is here to stay. If your father has an issue with it, he can take it up with me." She turned to the happy feline, and scratched him behind his ears, "I promise I will not let the big bad duke turn you into slippers."
The girls cheered, their faces alight with joy. Christina greeted her lady's maid. "Thank you, Addison."
Addison smiled. "His Lordship, your father, would not allow me to bring Carrot. I had to conceal him in a basket with my luncheon, as the Earl was present when the carriage departed from Hillsbury House."
Christina felt a wave of gratitude, pleased to have both her lady's maid and Carrot here.I wonder if Kilton will find Carrot as abominable as my father did.
They descended the grand staircase, where Mrs. Brimsey greeted her warmly. "Your Grace, I would like to show you the room the Duke intends to become your study."
Christina blinked in surprise. "The Duke wishes for me to have a study?" The notion of having her own space in this vast castle was both unexpected and gratifying.
Mrs. Brimsey nodded. "Indeed, Your Grace."
"How thoughtful of him," Christina expressed, inwardly appreciating him for providing her with a space where she could quietly avoid him. She felt a measure of relief that he was not present, but then the memory of his handsome face and the warmth of his hands lingered in her mind. She blinked, raising her chin to suppress the blush that threatened to rise.
As Mrs. Brimsey showed her the study, Agnes entered with Carrot cradled in her arms like an infant. "Do not forget our tour of the castle," she reminded Christina. The kitten purred softly.
Another presence emerged in the doorway, casting a shadow over the room. Christina's jaw tightened as she met Miss Peversly's cold gaze. The governess curtsied reluctantly. "Your Grace, Agnes has watercolor lessons in half an hour." Her tone was sharp, and her eyes held a disdainful glint.
"Agnes shall be punctual and will not miss her lessons," Christina replied firmly. She refused to let the governess undermine her authority.
The governess glanced disdainfully at Carrot, who hissed at her. Christina stepped forward, while Agnes stepped behind her with the kitten and muttered, "Do not mind Miss Peversly. She is only jealous of your orange hair."
