Under a Dimmed Sun [UNCENSORED]

SI: Chapter III: Peter's POV

In the wake of his half-brother's passing, Peter found himself immersed in the duties that accompanied his new role as the heir to Viscount of Wode. The weight of grief hung heavy on his shoulders.

Amidst this mourning, Peter sought solace in the familiar routines of clerical work. The parchment and quill became his companions as he navigated through documents and responsibilities that were once distant concerns. The sudden shift from the academic pursuits of clerical studies to the practical matters of inheriting the viscountcy added an unexpected layer of complexity to his already burdened heart.

Peter, although having met Alice briefly under the tree when he was not sober enough, found himself oddly captivated by the innocent encounter. The encounter under the tree became a poignant memory in the midst of his mourning, a moment when the simplicity of Alice's gesture contrasted sharply with the complexities of his role. Peter, yearning for a connection unburdened by grief and noble duties, sought refuge in the idea of exploring a world where things are simpler than the demands of inheritance.

He couldn't shake the image of her brushing away dry leaves from his hair, a simple act that felt remarkably intimate amidst the grandeur of the castle walls. The innocence and simplicity of that moment stood in stark contrast to the complexities of his noble existence, creating a yearning for a connection unburdened by titles and expectations.

Peter, perhaps seeking refuge from the stifling atmosphere of nobility, found himself drawn to the idea of meeting her once more.

In the days leading up to the encounter in the secret garden, Peter, determined to orchestrate a meeting with Alice, embarked on a discreet mission within the stone walls of Wode Castle.

Aware of the upcoming trade negotiations between his Aunt, Lady Beatrix, and John the Merchant, Peter saw an opportunity. Peter approached his Aunt, subtly guiding the conversation towards the upcoming trade negotiations. "My lady, I've been thinking. Perhaps we should consider expanding our trade to include more than just the usual commodities. Foreign goods, for instance, could bring a new flavor to our agreements."

Lady Beatrix, the (Provisional) Viscountess, intrigued by the suggestion, raised an eyebrow. "Go on."

"Well," Peter continued, "John the Merchant has an extensive collection. It might be worth paying a visit to his place, see the goods firsthand. It could add a unique touch to our arrangements." A secret proposition that would provide a convenient excuse for him to escape the rigid confines of the castle.

His Aunt, nodding in agreement, replied, "An excellent idea, Peter. A personal touch to negotiations can go a long way. Arrange a visit, and we shall see if this merchant's offerings align with our interests."

As Peter presented his idea to his aunt about exploring the potential trade in foreign goods, the air in the room grew tense. The viscountess listened with interest, considering the expansion of trade, but her sister in-law, Peter's stepmother, Lady Eleanor, cast a mean-spirited, disapproving glance in Peter's direction.

"You think a mere visit to a merchant's house is a worthy pursuit?" Lady Eleanor remarked, her tone dripping with disdain. "We have more pressing matters, Peter."

Peter, accustomed to his stepmother's disapproval, maintained his composure. "It's about diversifying our trade, madam. A broader range of goods can bring prosperity."

The Viscountess, caught in the subtle power play between his nephew and his sister in-law, hesitated for a moment before giving a measured nod. "Peter has a point. Let us explore this opportunity, Eleanor."

As they are talking, Lady Eleanor's disliking glance lingered, a silent warning that her disdain for Peter's ideas had not gone unnoticed. The tension added an additional layer of complexity to Peter's quest for a reprieve from the castle's confines.

With his aunt's approval, Peter, accompanied by a few trusted personnel, rode towards John the Merchant's estate on the agreed-upon morning. The plan was set in motion, and the wheels of fate turned in a direction.

In this context of loss and newfound responsibilities, the memory of Alice lingered like a soft melody, offering a brief respite from the weight of his duties. The desire to visit her garden wasn't merely about trade agreements or herbs—it was a subtle rebellion against the suffocating expectations placed upon him as the heir.

Arriving at John's estate, Peter initiated the conversation with John the Merchant, carefully weaving words to express genuine interest. "John, I've heard tales of your collections. Would it be too forward to request a glimpse of these treasures?"

John, sensing an opportunity, graciously agreed. "Of course, my lord. Follow me."

As Peter strolled through the courtyard with John and his son, he couldn't help but steal glances towards the second floor, where glimpses of Alice's silhouette hinted at the mystery that awaited.