A Broken Promise

04 Solace

Cornelia spent the day immersed in a quiet routine, her thoughts often drifting back to the previous evening's events, and the sweet tulips that were gifted to her. Despite her father's disappointment, she tried to focus on her chores around the manor, seeking solace in the familiar tasks. The beauty of the garden and the calm of the estate did little to lift her spirits completely, but they provided a temporary reprieve from her worries.

As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the estate grounds, Cornelia retreated to her room to prepare for dinner. She had just finished dressing when she heard voices drifting from her father's study. Curious, she paused near the door and recognized the deep, familiar tones of Lord Montague Hynnesworth.

Her heart skipped a beat as she caught snippets of their conversation, her father's stern but respectful replies mingling with Montague's smooth, confident speech. Cornelia's curiosity piqued, and she hesitated before deciding to approach the study.

She knocked gently on the door, pushing it open slightly. "Father, Lord Hynnesworth," she greeted, her voice soft but polite.

Both men turned their attention to her. Montague stood with a courteous nod, and Antoine looked up from his desk, his expression a mix of surprise and formality.

"Cornelia," Antoine said, his tone measured. "Lord Hynnesworth and I were just discussing some matters. Is there something you need?"

Montague's eyes met Cornelia's with a warm, reassuring glance. "Actually, Miss Cornelia, I was hoping to speak with you directly. If you're free this evening, I would like to invite you for a stroll through the town. I thought it might be a pleasant way to end the day."

Cornelia's eyes lit up at the invitation, her earlier tension momentarily forgotten. "A stroll? I would be delighted, Lord Hynnesworth."

Antoine's gaze shifted between his daughter and Montague, his expression inscrutable. "Very well. I trust you will be back in good time," he said, though his tone remained neutral, betraying little of his personal feelings.

"Of course, sir," Montague replied smoothly, his demeanor courteous and respectful. "I'll ensure Miss Cornelia returns promptly."

With a final nod, Antoine dismissed them, and Montague escorted Cornelia out of the study. As they stepped into the evening air, Cornelia felt a renewed sense of hope and anticipation. The town was bathed in the soft glow of twilight, and Montague's presence offered a comforting contrast to her earlier anxieties.

They began their stroll through the charming streets, the air cool and crisp as it settled into night. Montague guided Cornelia along winding paths and past twinkling shop windows, their conversation flowing easily. Montague shared anecdotes about the town and its history, his enthusiasm and charm providing a pleasant distraction from the remnants of her father's disapproval.

As they walked, Cornelia felt the weight of her father's disappointment gradually lifting, replaced by the gentle warmth of Montague's company. The evening unfolded with a sense of calm and connection, and Cornelia found herself savoring the simple pleasure of their shared time.

By the end of their walk, as they neared the entrance to her family's estate, Cornelia's spirits were notably lighter. The stroll had been more than just a diversion; it had been a reminder of the kindness and understanding that still existed in her world.

Montague paused at the gate, turning to Cornelia with a sincere smile. "I thank you, for joining me this evening, Miss Cornelia. I hope it was as enjoyable for you as it was for me."

Cornelia returned his smile, her heart warmed by his thoughtful gesture. "It was wonderful, Lord Hynnesworth. Thank you for making my evening so pleasant."

Montague nodded, his eyes reflecting genuine pleasure. "I'm glad to hear that. I look forward to our next encounter."

With that, Montague bade her goodnight and watched as Cornelia entered the manor. As the gate closed behind her, Cornelia felt a flicker of optimism, buoyed by the promise of new beginnings and the unexpected kindness of a newfound admiration.

Cornelia practically skipped up the steps to the Beaumont manor, her earlier anxieties replaced by the buoyant joy of the evening's unexpected delight. The soft light from the manor's interior spilled out through the open door, casting a warm glow that seemed to welcome her back.

She burst into the sitting room, where her mother and father were seated, their conversation pausing at the sound of her entrance. "I'm home, Mother, Father!" Cornelia announced with a brightness in her voice that matched her radiant smile. Her eyes danced with the excitement of the evening, and she could hardly contain her enthusiasm as she approached them.

Her mother looked up with a welcoming smile, while her father's expression softened slightly, though he remained guarded. "How was your evening, dear?" her mother asked, setting aside her embroidery with genuine interest.

"It was wonderful!" Cornelia began, her voice brimming with joy. "Lord Hynnesworth invited me for a stroll through the town. It was such a lovely surprise. We walked through the quaint streets, and he shared so many fascinating stories about the town's history. It was so refreshing to be out and about like that."

Her mother's eyes twinkled with affection. "It sounds like a delightful evening. I'm glad you enjoyed it."

Cornelia nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, it was. He was so charming and considerate. I really felt at ease, something I hadn't felt in a while. It was like a breath of fresh air."

Her father, though still maintaining his reserved demeanor, gave a nod of acknowledgment. "I'm glad to hear you had a pleasant evening, Cornelia."

As the conversation continued, Cornelia found herself drawn into a warm discussion with her mother about the details of the evening. They chatted about the various parts of the stroll, the sights they saw, and the pleasantness of Montague's company. Her mother listened intently, her gentle presence providing a comforting contrast to the day's earlier tensions.

After the discussion wound down, Cornelia excused herself with a grateful smile. "Thank you for letting me share my evening with you. I'm going to head up to bed now."

She ascended the staircase, her steps lighter than they had been in days. The soft glow of the hallway lamps guided her to her room, and as she closed the door behind her, she let out a contented sigh. The day's events had lifted her spirits, and the pleasant recollections of her time with Montague filled her with a comforting warmth.

Cornelia prepared for bed with a sense of peace, her mind replaying the evening's moments with Montague. As she settled beneath the covers, she felt a sense of optimism for the future. The soothing quiet of her room wrapped around her, and soon, she drifted off to sleep, her dreams tinged with the hopeful promise of new beginnings and the gentle glow of a happy evening.