Luke swallowed. “Is she still at Emberly? Or has she returned to Pembleton Manor?”
“She was there when I left, and I believe she was planning on remaining there a few days more.” Rodger said.
“Then I know what I have to do.” Luke muttered to himself. “I will make things right between us.”
“Good luck brother.” Rodger smiled. “Now it is time to go and get your duchess.”
Luke nodded, and began to run. He sprinted down the stairs, taking them two at a time. With every step, he grew more sure of himself.
“Hold on Emily. I am coming.” He whispered as he sprinted towards the stables. “I just hope you can forgive me.”
Chapter Thirty-One
“Isuppose it makes sense, when you think about it.” Natalie said, frowning as she watched Emily and Jane playing chess. “Marie and Lord Baine, I mean.”
They were in one of the libraries, having wanted a break from the engagement announcement. As soon as Marie had accepted Lord Baine’s proposal, the family had been in uproarious celebration. It had only been the fact that Lord Baine could not stay that had prevented them throwing another ball.
Emily looked out of the window at the setting sun. The whole day had felt like a blur. Ever since Lord Baine had apologised to her and told her he had no wish to marry her, but wanted to marry Marie, she had felt an odd sense of relief.I would rather be alone than with the wrong man.
Her heart twisted. It hurt, but she knew it would fade. She had her sisters, and Natalie. And they would be there for her.Who needs a husband when I have them?
“They do have rather a lot in common.” Emily agreed. “Though I'm rather embarrassed that I did not notice anything sooner.”
“It is rather surprising, given your penchant for matchmaking.” Jane said, a mischievous look in her eyes.
Emily glared good naturedly at her sister.
“That is probably because you were rather distracted.” Natalie teased. “Why did you not tell me you had feelings for Duke Warren?”
“I did not know that was how I felt. Besides, he has made it clear that he is not willing to marry me.” She flashed Natalie a warning look.
She had told her about the kiss she had shared with Luke, but had decided not to share that particular detail with her sisters. They might have been entering into a more open chapter of their lives, but Emily was not convinced they would not force Luke to do the honourable thing.And I have no wish for that.
“Then he is a fool.” Jane said, moving her knight.
Emily's heart twisted. She recognised the arrangement of the board. It was the same as the game she had played with the Duke.At least I know exactly how to win.
“It is his loss.” Natalie agreed.
Emily shrugged as she moved her queen across the board. “Yet that does not make it hurt any less.”
“Perhaps not today, but in time it will. For now it is entirely too fresh.” Jane surveyed their game, her lips pursed in thought.
“Thank you.” Emily murmured. Natalie reached across and squeezed her hand.
Outside, clouds began to darken the sky. There was a flash of lightning and a low roar of thunder.The sound made Natalie jump.
“It would seem we are in for quite a storm.” Jane glanced out the window. “It is lucky Lord Baine left when he did. It would be awful to be riding in this.”
Emily nodded. She wondered what Luke would think of his brother's choice. Lord Baine had told her that his brother told him to go after his heart's desire.It is a pity Luke will not do the same.
But then again, perhaps she simply was not his heart's desire. Passion was not love, at least she did not think that it was all there was to love. It was only a part of the puzzle and she wanted the whole puzzle
The sound of rain hitting the windows filled the air, making patterns of grey and blue. Emily watched them, but stopped when she remembered that Luke shared her same affliction.She would not think of him. There was another dull boom of thunder, making everyone jump.
‘I should check on the children. They hate storms.” Jane gave Emily an apologetic look. “Shall we continue this later?”
“Of course, unless Natalie wishes to take your place.” Emily gestured to Jane’s vacated seat.
