Kingsley's Bride

Chapter 27: Romantic Husband

We finally returned to Kingsley Estate, the grand manor that loomed ahead as the sun dipped low in the sky. Lord Darius and I had traveled on horseback, the steady rhythm of hooves a constant companion throughout our journey. 

As we dismounted Obsidian and approached the entrance, the sheer size of the estate reminded me of the world I was stepping into—a realm of opulence and formality, far removed from the simplicity of my previous life.

Mr. Ralph and a few servants were already waiting to greet us. Lord Darius, ever composed, immediately instructed Mr. Ralph to move my belongings into his chamber. I looked up at him, a question forming on my lips, but he merely gave me a reassuring nod. Though unsure of what to make of the situation, I knew better than to question him outright, before everyone.

As we entered the grand foyer, I was met with the warm embrace of my maid, Eliza. Her familiar presence was a balm to my frayed nerves, her genuine smile sparking a feeling of relief within me.

"Eliza!" I exclaimed, wrapping her in a hug. "I'm so glad to see you."

She returned the embrace warmly. "Lady Scarlett, it's wonderful to have you back. I've missed you."

Eliza led me to Lord Darius's chamber, where I took in the opulence surrounding me. The room was vast and luxurious, with rich mahogany paneling lining the walls and an exquisite Persian rug covering the floor. The centerpiece was an enormous four-poster bed, draped with heavy, ornate curtains. Intricately carved wooden nightstands flanked the bed, each holding a brass lamp that cast a soft, golden glow.

Across from the bed stood a large study table, its surface meticulously arranged with papers, a leather-bound journal, and a brass inkstand. Tall bookshelves filled with volumes lined the walls, reaching up to the high ceiling. Plush armchairs and a grand fireplace completed the room's warmth and elegance.

As Eliza carefully arranged my belongings alongside Darius's, I sensed a subtle tension between my sense of displacement and the growing intimacy of my new surroundings. I had so many questions about why I was being moved into his chamber and the implications of this change.

Lord Darius entered the room with a confident stride, his presence magnetic. My heart fluttered with nervous anticipation as he approached me.

"Make yourself comfortable, Scarlett," he said with a rare, beautiful smile, his voice smooth and reassuring. "You're welcome to use the study table if you'd like to work on anything."

His offer caught me off guard, and I nodded, attempting to hide my confusion. As I settled into a chair at the study table, I stole glances at him, trying to decipher the purpose behind this new arrangement. His concentration was unwavering as he worked, but every so often, his eyes would flicker toward me, making my heart skip a beat.

While Lord Darius moved about the room, I struggled with a growing desire to ask about my sister and the possibility of visiting her. His presence was a constant reminder of the delicate balance I needed to maintain. He returned to his seat at the study table, engrossed in his work, making it difficult for me to approach him with my questions.

Turmoiled and distracted by my thoughts, I decided to take a bath, hoping that the brief respite would help clear my mind.

The bathroom was equally grand, with a large clawfoot tub and elegant fixtures. I allowed myself to relax in the warm water, hoping it would ease the anxiety that had been building throughout the day.

Returning to the chamber, I found Lord Darius still at the study table, his focus intense. But I noticed his gaze flickering toward me as I entered, the weight of it like a tangible caress. My heart raced, and I tried to ignore the flutter of nerves that accompanied his attention, settling myself in the space that had been prepared for me.