The Duchess of York (Colin Bridgerton)

21) Back to York

Duchess' POV

Arriving back at the Bridgerton house hold, I was rushed straight to Eloise's bedroom (Daphne's former bedroom). Anna was waiting for me, I had to change my dress to something slightly more simple and comfortable to travel in. Colin had planned the entire honey moon without me, he ensured me that it would be something of bright colours, great culture and warm weather.

Now dressed in a more suitable pale lilac dress I engaged the staircase, noticing Eloise, Violet and Benedict stood in the stairwell.

"You look truly beautiful Lady Annabelle." Benedict spoke.

"Thank you Benedict." I smiled politely back at him.

"If I might interrupt, your Grace." Anthony ever so formally announced his presence.

"Very well Anthony."

"I am afraid I have some disappointing news. It seems your honey moon is to be carried out at you York estate. We have received word from your late fathers correspondents and you are to return home immediately. It seems their is much work to be done. That said I have made it clear that as your new brother-in-law it is my responsibility to make sure that you do have a honey moon. They have granted you one week. I am sorry that it isn't any longer. I assure you I tried my hardest to give you the honey moon you and my brother deserve, even offering myself to go to York and help until you were to return."

The disappointment was clear on my face, however, it was not Anthony's fault. It was very noble of him to offer himself to work for my estate.

"I understand, thank you for trying. This isn't your fault. Is Colin aware?"

"Indeed. He is disappointed to but in the words of my brother he knows that as a Duke now he also has responsibility and duty to a duty to York. Thank you for being so understanding."

"I understand. Well I aught to go and greet my guests and make sure all is in order for my return home tonight." I nod as I walk away.

It was inevitable that Colin and I would be returning home at some point, I just never imagined it would be so soon. The honey moon was supposed to be a month long. I suppose on the bright side this will give Colin and I time to settle into my York estate properly before the work load is put on our shoulders. The estate is rather long and will definitely take some adjusting to for Colin, and for myself as I will no longer be alone is such a large home.

After greeting some of my guests I was interrupted by a tap on my left shoulder. Daphne.

"Your Grace, I just came to wish you luck. My brother and yourself will be so happy together, I couldn't have hoped for a better match for him and as for a sister-in-law. I hope you will Simon and I as guests as soon as you are both settled. I am sure we will become great friends." Daphne embraced me with a hug.

"I would love for you to come and visit. As soon as possible. My home will always be open to Simon and yourself and your little one." I was genuinely happy that Daphne wanted to visit. I do feel we have grown closer over the past few months. It felt nice to be friends with another Duchess. I am sure we could learn a few things from each other.

Our conversation was interrupted by Simon and Colin. The two seemed in high spirits.

"There you are, I have been looking for you." Colin gushed.

"Really? Well I was just taking to Daphne. It appears she will be among some of our first guests when we are settled."

"Sounds like a wonderful idea sister. Although I must say, are you hoping to check up on me?" Colin chuckled, teasing Daphne. Which only caused Simon to chuckle also.