Page 21 of His Godsent Duchess
"Our marriage was arranged," he continued, his voice touched with melancholy. "There was no affection, not even friendship. We were strangers living under the same roof."
"Do you intend to live with me in such a manner?"
Kilton's eyes flicked to hers, and the silence stretched between them before he answered. "Your role is to be a mother to my children." His tone was as distant as ever. "That is all I ask of you."
Christina felt a weight settle in her stomach, an inexplicable sense of foreboding about their future together enveloping her.
Nine
"Here, Cassidy!" Amelia cried, her voice full of excitement as she darted away.
"You shall never catch me!" Agnes taunted, her laughter ringing through the garden as she skipped out of Cassidy's reach.
Cassidy, blindfolded, stumbled about with her arms outstretched, seeking her sisters who fled from her, giggling and calling out teasingly. Carrot followed them cheerfully, his tail twitching with excitement.
Katherine clapped her hands, her eyes sparkling with joy. "You almost got me, Cassidy!"
Under the grand oak tree, Christina sat with Addison on a blanket, a delightful spread of sandwiches, fruits, and pastries around them. The sprawling branches provided a welcome shade, and the gentle rustle of leaves created a soothing canopy. A warm smile played on her lips as she observed their joy.
Addison sighed contentedly beside her. "It is wonderful to see the young ladies out in the sunshine, Your Grace."
Christina smiled and sipped her lemonade. "Indeed, Addison. They needed this, and they have earned it."
Addison looked at her closely. "Are you happy, Your Grace?"
Christina nodded quietly, but the gesture lacked conviction. Addison turned her attention back to the children, but Christina's smile faded. Her heart yearned for something more. To be accepted as she was, to feel genuine affection.
Cassidy finally managed to touch Amelia, who squealed in delight. "You got me!"
The game continued with joyful shouts, but Christina's thoughts drifted. She longed for the day when she would be more than just a dutiful wife and a caring stepmother, and she recalled how she dreamed of marriage when she was a debutante; to have a husband who saw her for who she was and embraced her fully.
Katherine came over, breathless from playing. "Your Grace, are you not going to join us?"
Christina forced a bright smile. "Perhaps later, Katherine. For now, I am content to watch you all enjoy yourselves."
Katherine nodded, returning to the game with renewed energy. Addison gently patted her hand. "You are doing a splendid job with them, Your Grace."
Christina appreciated the kindness but couldn't shake the hollow feeling inside. She watched the girls play, their laughter ringing out like music, and silently hoped that one day, she would find the happiness and acceptance she so desperately craved.
Addison's voice broke the silence that had settled over her. "Your Grace, when is Lady Annabelle to arrive?"
"In two days, according to the letter I received yesterday. I am quite excited and truly hope that her time here will revive her spirits."
Addison chuckled. "I dare say your parents will scarcely recognize her when she returns to them."
Christina laughed but quickly grew somber. "I am afraid they might send her to Mrs. Darlington-Whit's Seminary."
Addison shuddered. "I have heard dreadful things about that place."
Christina nodded, her expression serious. "It is a center of snobbery, filled with arrogant ladies and even more arrogant tutors. They expect perfection and impossible achievements. Surviving there is worse than navigating the French court. The pressure to conform is relentless, and the atmosphere is oppressive. It is a wonder anyone emerges unscathed."
Addison grimaced. "It sounds horrid. No wonder you detest it so."
Christina chuckled ruefully. "Yet my father is proud he sent me there."
A sudden squeal drew Christina's attention, and she looked up to see Agnes's dress covered in mud. Cassidy's dress was similarly soiled.
"Where did you find mud in the garden?" Christina asked.
