Page 123 of An Unwanted Bride for the Duke
“Are you hurt?” he asked, dropping to one knee beside her.
Unable to answer, Seraphine simply threw her arms around him.
She held him tight and realized that now, she finally felt safe.
Chapter Thirty-Two
The journey home passed in a weary haze, every mile placing more distance between them and the terror of the roadside ambush. The familiar stone façade of the manor had never looked so welcoming to Seraphine. Even the sight of the servants bustling through the entrance hall with quiet efficiency brought unexpected comfort. It was a relief to breathe without looking over her shoulder.
Now she sat beside Rosaline and Annie upon one of the upholstered settees in the parlor, both wrapped in warm blankets despite the summer air. A cheerful fire crackled softly in the grate, more for comfort than warmth. A tray of tea had been brought in untouched, neither lady possessing much appetite after the ordeal. Though the physician had declared them all merely shaken, Seraphine still felt as though her heart had not quite remembered its proper rhythm.
The parlor door opened. Damien stepped inside, his riding clothes still dusted from the road, though he had clearly paused long enough to wash the blood from his hands and face. Hisexpression remained solemn, yet the moment his eyes found Seraphine, some of the strain left his features.
"I have had a note sent to Laurent," he said as he crossed the room. His voice was calm again, though fatigue lingered beneath it. "He shall come to Wexford as soon as he receives it."
Rosaline released a long breath she had been holding and rested one hand against her chest.
"Oh, thank goodness," she murmured, managing a tired smile. Silence settled for a brief moment before Rosaline rubbed her temples.
"It has been a trying day," she admitted quietly. "I believe I have lived through enough excitement to satisfy me for the next twenty years."
Seraphine reached across and gently squeezed her sister's hand.
"I quite agree," she said with a soft smile. "Why do you not take one of the bedchambers upstairs? Call for a hot bath, a fresh gown, and several hours of uninterrupted sleep. You and Annie deserve all three."
Rosaline looked at her fondly. "And leave you?"
"I shall be perfectly well."
Rosaline searched her sister's face for a long moment before giving a reluctant nod. "I suppose I shall take your advice for once."
Seraphine laughed quietly. "There is a sentence I never expected to hear."
Rosaline rolled her eyes with affectionate amusement. "Do not become accustomed to it."
Both sisters smiled, the familiar exchange easing some of the heaviness that had settled over the room.
Rosaline rose from the settee, smoothing her traveling gown before stepping forward. Without another word, she wrapped Seraphine in a tight embrace.
"I am so thankful you are safe," she whispered.
Seraphine closed her eyes, returning the embrace just as fiercely. "So am I."
Rosaline pulled back, brushing away a lingering tear before glancing towards Damien. "You brought my sister home."
"I merely corrected my own mistake," Damien answered quietly.
Rosaline studied him for a moment before offering him a grateful nod. "Even so... thank you, Your Grace."
Damien inclined his head respectfully. "It was my duty."
Rosaline smiled knowingly but wisely chose not to argue. Instead, she gave Seraphine's shoulder one final reassuring squeeze. "I shall see you in the morning."
"I shall expect you well rested," Seraphine replied.
"I make no promises. Come along, Annie." With that, Rosaline allowed one of the maids waiting outside the parlor to escort her and Annie upstairs.
The door closed softly behind them. Then, Seraphine and Damien were finally alone.
