Rose Heart

Chapter 6

Rose's first instinct was to go to the old oak tree.

Rose sat beneath the ancient oak tree, lost in thought. She hadn't expected to run into anyone in this secluded spot. But as she gazed out at the surrounding foliage, she noticed a figure emerging from the trees.

It was James, his eyes fixed on hers with a hint of surprise. "Lady Ashdown! I didn't know you came here too."

Rose smiled, feeling a spark of connection. "I needed some fresh air. I didn't mean to intrude on your spot."

James shook his head, sitting down beside her. "It's not intruding at all. I'm glad to have some company."

As they sat together in comfortable silence, Rose felt a sense of ease with James that she couldn't explain. It was as if they had known each other for years, not just a few chance encounters.

Their eyes met, and Rose felt a jolt of electricity run through her veins. She couldn't deny the chemistry between them, and she couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to explore it further.

"Spending time with you really makes me feel better Sir Windsor. Rose spoke while looking at him.

"Me to my lady and please call me James." He spoke to her

"Only if you call me Rose." She Spoke

"Of course... Rose." Her  name sounded so nice coming from her mouth.

"Indeed James." she replied

They  sat there talking to each other til it got dark and she headed home.

Rose opened the door and stepped into the house, her heart still racing from her encounter with James. She had felt a spark of connection with him that she couldn't ignore.

"Rose, dear, how was your walk with Lord Blackwood?" her mother asked, looking up from her needlework.

Rose hesitated, unsure of how to respond.
"It was...fine," she said finally, trying to sound neutral.

Her parents exchanged a glance, and her father spoke up. "And what did you think of Blackwood's proposals for your future together?"

"I'm tired I wish to go to bed now." She spoke as she climbed the stairs to her room.

She kept meeting James at the old oak tree regularly they spoke and got to know each other more and talked about their interest.

°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°°
Rose received a letter from the princess telling her she wanted to meet her again. She thought it has been quite long since they met.

Rose curtsied low as Princess Jane entered the garden, her golden hair shining in the sunlight. "Your Highness," Rose said, "it's an honor to see you again."

"Rose it's just us here you can drop the formalities." she said smiling and Rose smiled back at her.

The princess smiled warmly and extended her hand, which Rose kissed respectfully. "Dear Rose, I'm so glad we finally have a moment alone. I've missed our conversations."

Rose smiled, feeling a deep connection to the kind and compassionate princess. "I've missed them too, Jane. You're the only one who truly understands me."

The princess nodded, her eyes sparkling with empathy. "I know how it feels to be trapped in a life not of our choosing. But we must make the most of it, for the sake of our families and our kingdom."

Rose nodded, feeling a sense of solidarity with the princess. Together, they strolled through the garden, discussing literature, music, and their shared love of nature. As they walked, Rose confided in the princess about her doubts regarding her engagement to Blackwood.

The princess listened attentively, her expression growing increasingly concerned. "Rose, my dear, I fear for your safety. Blackwood is not what he seems. I've heard rumors of his treachery and deceit."

Rose's heart skipped a beat as she realized the princess knew more than she was letting on. "What do you mean, Your Highness?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

The princess' eyes narrowed slightly as Blackwood approached, his smile gleaming with false charm. "Ah, Blackwood," she said, her voice cool. "I was just enjoying a lovely conversation with Rose. I'm sure you'll excuse us, as we were discussing matters of great importance."

Blackwood's eyes flickered with annoyance, but he bowed low. "Of course, Your Highness. I wouldn't dream of interrupting such a delightful conversation. Rose, my dear, I'll wait for you in the carriage. We have an appointment with your parents, remember?"

Rose nodded reluctantly, feeling trapped. She knew she had to leave with Blackwood, but she longed to stay with the princess, who seemed to understand her plight. As she bid the princess farewell, Sophia pressed a small note into her hand.

"Read this later, Rose," she whispered. "And trust no one."

Rose hid the note in her sleeve, her heart racing with excitement. What secrets did the princess know? And why did she warn her to trust no one? She had a feeling her life was about to change forever.

*******†******

When she got home she opened the letter and it read.

Here is a letter from the princess to Rose:

Dear Rose,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you in utmost urgency and secrecy. I have discovered dark secrets about Blackwood, the duke's estate, and I fear for your safety.

Blackwood is a place of horrors, where the duke conducts twisted experiments and holds people against their will. I have reason to believe that your parents are complicit in his evil deeds.

You must flee Blackwood immediately! Seek help from James, the young man who has been aidingHere is a letter from the princess to Rose:

Dear Rose,

I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to you in utmost urgency and secrecy. I have discovered dark secrets about Blackwood, the duke's estate, and I fear for your safety.

Blackwood is a place of horrors, where the duke conducts twisted experiments and holds people against their will. I have reason to believe that your parents are complicit in his evil deeds.

You must flee Blackwood immediately! Seek help from James, the young man who has been aiding me. He will know what to do.

Be cautious, Rose. The duke's power is vast, and his reach is long. You are in grave danger.

Trust no one but James.

Yours in haste,
The Princess

P.S. Look for The Guardian, a mysterious figure working to bring the duke to justice. They may be able to help you. me. He will know what to do.

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