Kingsley's Bride

Chapter 17: Color of Betrayals

I tossed and turned in bed, the day's events replaying over and over in my mind. Every time I closed my eyes, I saw Meredith's haunted expression, heard her accusing words, and felt the sting of her slap. How had things changed so drastically? Meredith had always been my protector and confidante, but now she seemed like a stranger, driven by fear and anger.

Unable to bear the restlessness any longer, I sat up and slipped on my robe. I needed answers, and I needed them now. Glancing at the clock, I saw that it was past midnight, but the questions gnawing at me wouldn't let me rest. Determined, I made my way through the silent house to Mr. Ralph's quarters.

I knocked softly on his door and waited. A few moments later, Mr. Ralph, looking weary but alert, opened the door. His eyes widened slightly in surprise, but he quickly composed himself.

"Milady, is everything alright?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

"Mr. Ralph, I need to speak with you. It's urgent," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady despite the turmoil within me.

He nodded and stepped aside to allow me in. I entered the modest room, taking a seat by the small table. Mr. Ralph followed, seating himself opposite me.

"I apologize for disturbing you at this hour, but I need answers," I began. "Meredith's behavior today—her fear of Darius, her accusations—none of it makes sense. Please, I need to understand what's happening. Does Darius have anything to do with this? Why is Meredith so afraid of him?"

Mr. Ralph's expression remained impassive. He took a deep breath before speaking. "Milady, with all due respect, there are things that only your husband, Lord Darius, can explain. It is not my place to speak on matters that concern him directly."

Frustration mounted within me, but I kept my voice calm. "Mr. Ralph, I understand your position, but I'm desperate to help my sister. If there's anything you can tell me, anything at all, it could make a difference. Meredith might be in danger, and I can't bear the thought of losing her again."

Mr. Ralph met my gaze steadily, his eyes reflecting a mix of empathy and resolve. "Milady, my loyalty lies with Lord Darius, and it would be a breach of trust for me to divulge any information that pertains to him. However, I will say this: your focus must remain on finding Meredith. Whatever she is involved in, it is imperative that we locate her as soon as possible. She is clearly frightened and acting out of desperation."

I sighed, feeling the weight of helplessness pressing down on me. "I understand, Mr. Ralph. But please, if there's anything you can share that could help me understand why Meredith is so terrified, it would mean the world to me."

Mr. Ralph's expression softened slightly. "Milady, trust in Lord Darius. He cares deeply for you and will protect you. The answers you seek will come in due time. For now, we must concentrate on finding Meredith before it's too late."

I nodded, though my mind was far from at ease. "Thank you, Mr. Ralph. I appreciate your dedication and advice."

As I stood to leave, Mr. Ralph spoke again. "Milady, rest assured that we will do everything in our power to find Meredith. Please try to get some rest. You will need your strength for the days ahead."

I returned to my room, feeling a mixture of frustration and determination. I knew the path ahead would be fraught with challenges, but I was resolute in my mission to find my sister and uncover the truth. I lay down, willing myself to find some measure of rest.

The next morning, I awoke with a renewed sense of purpose. I dressed quickly and joined Mrs. Bedford, Mr. Ralph, and Mr. Albert in the drawing room, where they were already discussing our next steps.