Page 85 of A Duchess to Fight For
When he entered the parlour and bowed, Louisa knew right away that Percy was a different person. Before a word came out of his mouth.
He sat in his usual seat and took his tea the same way and ate the same cookies. That’s where the similarities ended.
He was cool to her. His eyes didn’t dance and sparkle. His voice was no longer animated. They shared generalities of what had happened over time since they saw each other last.
Instead of lingering and having a second cup of tea, he rose and made excuses for his early departure.
When he walked out of the parlour, Louisa looked over at Amelia. Her eyes showed how hurt she was at Percy’s cold social call.
Louisa rose, ran into the hallway and caught up with Percy just as Mendon was about to open the door.
She hurried over, “Percy?”
Mendon walked away.
Percy turned, “Yes?”
“I want to apologize to you. Every day I regret my actions towards you. It’s no way to treat the person most important in your life.”
Louisa’s eyes filled with unshed tears, “Please, please forgive me, Percy.”
Percy looked down at her; his face hadn’t softened at all. He bowed.
“You are forgiven.” He turned, opened the door, and left.
Louisa stood transfixed. The tears decided to break free and fall.
