If you were to ask anyone in the ton about the Lady with a Fan, even an errand boy could give you an answer. That's the name Anastasia Bridgerton had built for herself to protect her family after their father's passing. As the oldest sister and twin...
Chapter 19: The Hazy Depths of the Bluest Trenches are Known Only to Those Who Drown.
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The teetering hooves trotted through uneven grass, venturing toward a destination known only by its rider. Occasional neighs and grunts filled the quiet morning air, overshadowing whistling winds and chippering birds before it came to a halt atop a hill. Fine leather boots stepped onto the ground, the dews of dawn crinkling beneath its touch.
Nicholas inhaled a relaxing breath of fresh air as his eyes scanned the misty scene of Mayfair from above. The past week seemed to have passed with agonizing slowness. The man had spent almost every waking moment shrouded by thoughts of her. What had she had for breakfast that morning? Did she get enough sleep? Has her family caused more trouble during his departure? He sure hoped not.
The thoughts ranged from merely missing her to hearing illusions of her sarcastic jibes during important conversations, sneaking silent laughter that he knew his desk neighbour could hear. Nicholas had been pleasantly surprised to see that he had yet to find himself in an asylum for appearing rather insane during this period.
A warm smile touched his lips as he gazed at the town once more.
I cannot wait to see you again...
//
The remnants of rainfall left a haunting memory, specks of water gliding down the glass panes that covered the hallways in its entirety.
The pale white edges of her nightgown draped behind her feet, sweeping the floor with its soft rustles as the girl took another step forward. Her gaze trailed out the window, peering at the hint of sunshine that peeked through the clouds, before moving towards its dark grey companions further away. Pictures of warm smiles and comforting kisses swept through the winds, appearing in the sky and piercing the depths of her heart, a simulation of memories she could never forget.
He should have arrived by now...
Anastasia tightened her hold on the shawl draped across her elbows, pinching its fabric as if doing so would erase the past and all its traces away from her mind.
Adele paused ahead, her feet turning to raise an eyebrow at her mistress. The setting sun indicated nightfall, flickering light from within the dining hall implying preparations for dinner. Adele had just invited the girl to have her meal, hoping a warm spread would sweep the haze of her eyes. Yet, as she watched the girl gaze out the window with hollow eyes, the young maid knew there was nothing she could do. After all, she was not the cause, and the only cure for her mistress remained in the distant city of Mayfair, never to find this haven again.
//
Something was wrong
Nicholas swept his eyes across his mansion, pausing at the nervous peeks from his servants and the hesitant eyes of his attendant. Adam had been by his side for many decades, through his youth and past its depths. To see him hesitate meant something was most definitely wrong.
