Page 16 of The Duke's Jilted Bride

“Thank you, Simmons. That was most thoughtful.”

The butler led her to a charming room overlooking the gardens, where a large parcel wrapped in brown paper sat on a table beside a silver tea service. Agnes was already there, pouring tea for her.

“The staff hopes you don’t mind our presence, Your Grace,” Agnes said nervously. “We’re all curious about your first wedding gift.”

Selina smiled, unexpectedly touched by their interest. “Not at all. Please, stay.”

She untied the string and opened the package to find two items nestled in protective wrapping.

The first was a book, bound in soft blue leather with gilt edges. Opening it, she discovered a collection of poetry—all her favorites, from Donne to Pope to a few modern verses by Lord Byron. Inside the cover, Georgiana had inscribed a personal message:

For my dearest Selina, whose friendship I treasure. May these words bring comfort and joy in your new home.

With love, Georgiana.

“How lovely,” Selina murmured, running her fingers over the embossed cover.

The second item was a bottle of brandy, its amber liquid gleaming through dark glass. A small card attached read:

For the Duke—a rare vintage chosen by Robert, with our congratulations.

Beneath these gifts was a letter sealed with the Emberford crest. Selina broke the seal and read her friend’s familiar handwriting:

My dearest Selina,

I cannot express how sorry I am to have missed your wedding. Robert and I were devastated to receive your news after we had already departed for Emberford. To think of you married without your closest friend by your side breaks my heart.

I hope the enclosed small tokens bring you some cheer. The poetry collection was commissioned especially for you—I remembered all the volumes you admired in our reading sessions together.

Robert and I shall return to London in three weeks’ time. I hope we might see you and your husband then. I am most eager to meet the Duke and to ensure he appreciates the treasure he has claimed.

Write to me, dearest friend. Tell me everything.

With deepest affection,Georgiana

Selina folded the letter, her heart full. Even from a distance, Georgiana had found a way to offer comfort and support.

“What a thoughtful gift,” Agnes remarked, admiring the poetry volume.

“The Duchess of Emberford is a dear friend,” Selina explained. “Her kindness helped me through a difficult time.”

“And such a fine bottle for His Grace,” Simmons observed, examining the brandy with an expert eye. “A thirty-year-old vintage from France. Very rare indeed.”

Selina had almost forgotten the staff was still present. She looked up to find several maids, a footman, and the butler all watching her with warm interest. Their obvious desire to welcome her touched something in her heart.

“Could you place this in His Grace’s study for his return?” she said, handing the brandy to Simmons. “And perhaps you could arrange for fresh flowers in the dining room tonight? I believe we should celebrate our first wedding gift properly.”

“Of course, Your Grace.” Simmons bowed, barely concealing his approval.

As the staff dispersed, Selina remained with her book of poems, turning the pages slowly.

Georgiana’s gift reminded her she was not entirely alone in this strange new life. She had friends who cared for her, and now, a household that seemed eager for her leadership.

She might not have her husband’s regard, but perhaps she could still find purpose as Duchess of Aldermere. It wasn’t the life she had imagined for herself, but it was the one she now possessed.

She would make the best of it, with or without the Duke’s approval.

CHAPTER 7

---