The flower of the dukes palace

Page 5

I wrote him back, stating the meeting could be held in two days at noon. The letter had calmed my nerves and I felt more relaxed about meeting this "monster" of a man. I studied his handwriting, it appeared too fine and proper to be that of a mans, did he have someone else write this letter for him? I pondered, once again analyzing the simple piece of parchment,
"I've brought you tea, My Lady," Joan smiled with a piping hot cup that filled the room with it's sweet aroma, "They've made a roasted pecan blend, the late spring has brought your favorite," she placed the tray on the small coffee table in front of the sofa,
"Thank you," I smiled. Looking out the window at the blooming flowers, late spring was not my favorite season but it brought my favorite blend of tea.
...
Two days passed rather quickly, the day of the meeting was now here. Joan had gone with the other maids to prepare the gazebo, foods, and teas for the meeting. She dressed me in a light pink charmeuse dress that fell to just above my ankles. It was laced with a pretty black lace in an elegant and cutesy style. The petticoat and dress cage made it puff out though, making it even prettier. My hair was pinned back in a high bun with pink flowers, the same color as the light pink dress, decorating the bun neatly. My makeup was light as usual, a light dust of blush and a nice pink lip gloss, I stared at myself in the mirror once again, dark brown eyes stared back at me, my dark brown hair looked smooth and soft. Why did the duke even agree to my parents proposal anyway? There was a soft knock at the door, a head full of greyish-black hair peeked through as the butler opened the door,
"My Lady, Duke Este is here to see you, come quickly," Archibald said, I noticed his hand was slightly shaking, 
"Yes, thank you, Archie," I smiled at him, using the nickname I gave him when I was a little girl. We both quickly made our way through the halls towards the greeting room, "Archie, once I enter this room you should go take a rest, I fear your health is not good," I looked at his shaking hands, Archie was getting older, so, it wasn't healthy for him to constantly run around like this,
"Thank you, Lady Caroline," he smiled and gave a small bow, "will you be alright?" he asked. I only nodded in response. The greeting room was decorated with sophisticated furniture and accessories. When I entered the room, though, the Duke Este had a face that showed his distaste for my familys designs,
"Good evening, Duke Este, My name is Caroline Eamon, thank you for contacting me and agreeing to meet me here today," I curtsied, as perfectly as my teacher taught me,
"Good evening, Lady Caroline," he nodded,
"Would you like some fresh air? The staff have prepared a nice spot in the garden-" I started,
"I am not one for tea parties, Lady Caroline," he said, sternly,
"Ah, perhaps we could take a walk then?" I asked, nervously, I could see why Archie was intimidated. This man's dark hair, paired with pale skin and blue eyes was rather pleasant. He was indeed a handsome man, but it felt as if there was a dark shadow that lurked within the beauty.