Rose Heart

Chapter 10

Duke Philip Blackwood sat in the local tavern, sipping a pint of ale and whispering lies to the eager ears of the town gossips. "Did you hear about James' latest gambling binge?" he said with a sly smile. "He's deep in debt, and his business is on the brink of bankruptcy."

The gossips' eyes widened with excitement as they nodded and whispered among themselves. "I heard he's been seen with shady characters," one of them added, "probably involved in some illegal dealings."

Blackwood leaned in, his voice taking on a conspiratorial tone. "I've heard he's even been seen with a mysterious woman, if you know what I mean."

The gossips' eyes grew wide with scandal, and they quickly spread the rumors throughout the town. Soon, everyone was talking about James' supposed transgressions, and his reputation was tarnished.

Meanwhile, Rose's parents, believing the lies. Rose, oblivious to the rumors, was trapped in a web of deceit, her fate being decided by the very person who sought to destroy her happiness.

Blackwood was so determined on destroying James and now Rose

°°°°°°°°°°°°°°

Blackwood, his face twisted in a sly grin, stood in the parlor of Rose's family estate. He was addressing Rose's parents, his voice dripping with malice.

"I'm afraid I have some disturbing news," he said, his eyes gleaming with triumph. "Your daughter, Rose, has been conducting a clandestine affair with a young man named James. And, as we speak, they are together in the old oak tree, indulging in their forbidden love."

Blackwood's words hung in the air, his gaze piercing as he watched Rose's parents process the information. And to his surprise, they didn't question him, didn't doubt his claims. Instead, they exchanged a worried glance, their faces pale with concern.

"Oh dear Lord," Rose's mother whispered, her hand flying to her mouth. "This is terrible. What will happen to Rose?"

Blackwood's expression turned somber, his voice dripping with false concern. "I'm afraid it's worse than you think. James is not a suitable match for Rose. He's a commoner, with no wealth or status. He'll only bring her down, ruin her reputation."

Rose's father nodded, his face grave. "We had no idea. We thought she was just...infatuated with him."

Blackwood's eyes gleamed with triumph. "Yes, well, infatuation can lead to ruin. But I'm willing to help you. I'll make sure Rose is safe, that she marries a suitable man. One who can provide for her, protect her."

Rose's parents looked at each other, their faces filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Blackwood," her father said, his voice sincere. "We appreciate your help in this matter."

Blackwood's smile grew wider, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction. He had them right where he wanted them.

°°°°°°°°°°°°°°

Rose walked into the parlor, her heart still racing from her encounter with James. She tried to compose herself, to pretend like nothing was amiss. But her parents' stern expressions told her that something was wrong.

"Where have you been, Rose?" her mother asked, her voice firm but worried.

Rose hesitated, unsure of what to say. She didn't want to lie, but she couldn't tell the truth either. "I...I was just out for a walk," she stammered.

But her parents exchanged a knowing glance, and her father spoke up. "Rose, we know where you've been. We know about you and James."

Rose's heart sank, her eyes widening in alarm. "How...how did you know?"

Her mother's expression was sad but firm. "Lord Blackwood told us, Rose. He saw you together. And we're afraid it's not suitable. You can't see James anymore."

Rose felt like she'd been punched in the gut. "What?! No, that's not fair! I love him!"

Her father's face was unyielding. "Love has nothing to do with it, Rose. James is not a suitable match for you. He's a commoner, with no wealth or status. You deserve better."

Rose's eyes filled with tears, her heart breaking at the thought of being separated from James. She knew she had to find a way to see him again, no matter what.