Saving Gray

Chapter Five;

Laura Carmichael is who I have chosen for the beautiful Lady Katherine Ward, Cousin to Cynthia. Please envision these characters how you so wish for I do the same in other books. We are also back to Cynthia's POV in this chapter.

Feeling the carriage slowly turn I couldn't help but glance out of the window as I let out a soft gasp, watching as Berkeley Castle slowly came into view the autumn sun was low in the sky and was causing the bricks of the castle to almost appear a rosy pink shade. As the carriage came to a halt I glanced towards Rose as she smiled warmly at me "we've arrived milady" taking a deep breath I could not fathom as to why I was feeling as such, a nervous fluttering deep within my stomach. Watching as the door to the carriage was opened and the footman arranged the steps before offering me a hand to climb down, once outside I could not help myself from gazing up at the imposing building, "If you would like to follow me milady" the footman said as I took Rose's arm and followed the footman towards the main courtyard as we ascended the main staircase. 

As I glanced to the front entrance I noticed a butler stood there "Milady a pleasure to meet you, I am Mr. Thomas Lord Gray's Butler" he bowed his head as I returned the gesture. "His Lordship is in the drawing-room with Lady Sybil and Lord Archie Edmund" watching as the footman nodded we both followed him in the direction of the drawing-room, I was not able to stop myself from looking around the main foyer. Upon arriving outside of a door the footman proceeded to knock before he was permitted to enter and announce our arrival. Upon stepping into the room I immediately noticed two young children sat upon the settee that was closest to the fireplace which had a fire crackling away, however resting his hand on the mantel gazing into the flames was none other than the most handsome gentleman I had ever laid eyes upon, he had not changed since we were last acquainted. Hearing our names being announced caused him to glance up towards the door, watching carefully as his breath caught in his throat he slowly made his way towards me. 

Watching him bow before standing to take my hand gently in his large one he placed a gentle kiss on my knuckles lingering more than was appropriate, "Lady Cynthia what a pleasure it is to make your acquaintance once again". Feeling my cheeks immediately flush a rosy shade of red at the sound of his deep voice I took note of the grin that adorned his handsome face, "It's a pleasure to see you again, Lord Gray" I spoke softly bowing my head. Feeling him release my hand I heard him turn to greet Rose however my attention was taken by the children, who were watching us curiously "Milady, would you do me the pleasure of joining us for dinner this evening". Glancing towards him I noticed him motion a hand towards the children as I could not help but send them a warm smile that I hoped held comfort "It would be a pleasure Lord Gray" I say softly before walking slowly towards them. 

Upon reaching them I smile softly watching as Lady Sybil returns a small smile while Lord Archie looks upon me with confusion on his young face, "Hello, I am Lady Cynthia Ward I am an acquaintance of your Uncle Theodore" I gently sit down beside Lady Sybil. "You're very pretty" I hear Lady Sybil speak quietly sending her a warm smile I let out a soft laugh "You are a very beautiful girl Lady Sybil" watching as she smiles at me a little bigger than before. Turning to Archie I note that he still had not spoken but before I could take the meeting any further we were interrupted by the butler, Mr. Thomas announcing that dinner was ready. Slowly standing to my feet I offered a hand to Lady Sybil just as Archie quickly ran towards his uncle watching as Theodore teasingly scolded Archie for running before taking his hand just as I felt a small soft hand take mine. 

Glancing towards Lady Sybil I could not help but smile as we all headed in the direction of the dining room upon arrival Lord Gray was seated at the head of the table with myself and Lady Sybil sat on the right side of him and Lord Archie being placed opposite us on the left, listening to the gentle sounds of spoons gently knocking porcelain bowls I was a little startled when I heard his deep voice "how did the journey fare you, Lady Cynthia". Looking towards him I noted the warm smile on his face "It was rather a tiresome journey, milord but I am glad we made it in good time" taking another bite of my soup I smiled as I glanced towards Lady Sybil. Dinner passed with light conversation and pleasant small talk taking the time to get to know Lady Sybil, we all decided that it would be best to retire to the drawing-room as there was no dinner party to warrant the men and woman separating.