✔️ shadows of desire | downton abbey

chapter 34

The soft morning light filtered through the sheer curtains, bathing the room in a golden glow as the familiar scents of lavender and old wood filled the air. My first morning back in Downton. It was surreal, like stepping into a dream woven with years of longing and change. So much had happened in just one night. Four long years had culminated in a single, transformative moment-I had returned home, reunited with my brother, and, at last, I was engaged. The weight of the delicate ring on my finger felt like both a promise and a new beginning.

A quiet knock preceded the creak of the door as Sarah entered, her footsteps muffled by the thick carpet. She carried the brisk efficiency of the morning, her arms laden with fresh linens.

"Good morning, Miss," she said brightly, her voice warm and familiar. She paused, her keen eyes studying my face. "Have you rested well?"

I turned toward her, still seated on the edge of the bed, and nodded, my fingers instinctively brushing the ring on my hand. "Yes, thank you, Sarah."

The corners of her mouth lifted as her gaze fell to the glimmering band. "It's a beautiful ring, Miss. I'm truly happy for you. As is Miss Evelyn," she added with a soft laugh. "Have ye told the family yet?"

A wry smile tugged at my lips. I shook my head. "We haven't, not yet. Only my brother knows so far. But... I suppose we must do it sooner or later."

"Well, they'll know soon enough," Sarah said, bustling about the room. "Now, what shall you wear today?"

I rose and crossed to the wardrobe, the faint creak of its hinges filling the air as I opened it. The mingled scents of cedar and rose sachets enveloped me as I reached for a light pink blouse. The fabric shimmered faintly in the morning light, its delicate pintucks catching the sun like ripples on water. I paired it with a deep navy skirt that draped elegantly, its tailored seams speaking of understated strength. My polished brown heels stood waiting like sentinels, their pointed toes reflecting the soft sunlight.

As I dressed, Sarah's nimble fingers began weaving my hair into a graceful style, her touch confident yet gentle. The faint scent of lavender oil from her hands mingled with the fresh air wafting through the open window. "There now, Miss," she said, stepping back to admire her handiwork. "You look lovely."

"Thank you, Sarah," I murmured just as a light knock sounded at the door. Turning, I saw it crack open to reveal Matthew's familiar face, his blue eyes warm with affection.

"Good morning," he said, his voice soft as he stepped inside. "I just wanted to see you."

I smiled, feeling the now-familiar flutter of joy at his presence. "It is a good morning with you here," I replied, my tone playful yet sincere. "Is there something you need?"

He lingered by the doorway, hesitating. "Well... I was wondering when you'd like to announce our engagement," he said, his voice low but hopeful. "I know you wanted to tell Thomas first."

My smile grew as I lowered my gaze, the memory of Thomas's heartfelt congratulations warming me. "He already knows," I said, stepping closer to him. "He's very happy for us. Perhaps we should tell everyone at breakfast. Lady Sybil and Tom arrived last night, so the whole family is here."

Matthew's expression softened as he nodded. "If that's what you want, then yes. Now is as good a time as any."

A faint sigh escaped me. "I'm a little nervous," I admitted, my fingers grazing the lace trim of my sleeve. "I'm not sure how they'll react."

He reached for my hand, his grip reassuring. "Don't worry. They'll come around in time. Especially when they see I won't let their opinions sway me." His voice was firm, his conviction like a shield against my doubts. "Now, come."