Page 56 of ?n Arranged Betrothal with a Blind Duke
Adrian painted a picture with his words, his voice gentle and soothing,
“A picnic by the lake,” he said. “I’ve heard the lilies are in full bloom, and the gentle hum of nature is ever present. We could bask in the sun, laugh, and for a moment, let the world drift away.”
Annabelle closed her eyes, letting his words wash over her. The thought of sunlight warming her skin, the gentle lapping of water against the lake’s edge, and the soft melodies of nature seemed like a distant dream — a much-needed reprieve from the turmoil she felt inside.
She squeezed his hand, her voice filled with gratitude.
“Adrian, that sounds wonderful,” she said.
He leaned closer, his breath tickling her ear.
“Then tomorrow, we shall seek our sanctuary, even if just for a day,” he said.
And in that promise, Annabelle found a sliver of hope, a respite from the whirlpool of apprehensions that threatened to consume her.
Their heartfelt discussion gradually came to a close, a comfortable silence settling between Annabelle and Adrian as their mutual understanding deepened. Words had been shared, secrets revealed, and in those stolen moments, their connection had grown into something profound and unspoken.
“Shall we go back to Aunt Marjorie?” Adrian asked after a long, comfortable silence.
Annabelle smiled, wishing that Adrian could see it so that he could see how much weight he had helped lift from her shoulders.
“Of course,” she said.
They stood together, their minds still lingering on the warmth of their conversation, before slowly making their way back to the parlor.
Marjorie awaited them, her poised presence emanating grace and hospitality. As they entered, her eyes sparkled with a warm and genuine welcome, and she greeted Annabelle with a radiant smile that lit up her elegant features.
“Ah, dear Annabelle. I do hope you will stay for dinner,” she said.
There was an insistence in her tone that was as comforting as it was sincere. Marjorie was a woman of wisdom and kindness, and her invitation was an open-hearted gesture that Annabelle could not refuse.
“I would be honoured, Marjorie,” Annabelle replied, her voice filled with genuine gratitude. A smile blossomed on her face, reflecting the warmth she felt.
The dining room of Thornwood Manor was alight with the soft glow of candlesticks, their flames dancing merrily and casting a golden hue over the opulent room. Crystal chandeliers sparkled overhead, while the scent of roasted game and fresh bread wafted through the air. But tonight, the grandeur of the setting paled in comparison to the topic of discussion: Annabelle’s impending nuptials to Adrian.
Seated gracefully at the head of the table, Marjorie’s eyes twinkled with mischief and delight as she addressed the couple.
“Oh, my dears,” she began, her voice lilting with excitement. “I’ve been thinking all day about the wedding! Just imagine a ceremony at the village chapel, with all the roses and lilies we can possibly fit inside.”
Annabelle clasped her hands together, her heart fluttering. The very idea painted such a serene and romantic scene. “Marjorie, that sounds enchanting,” she said.
Marjorie beamed, clearly pleased that Annabelle was happy with the idea.
“And of course, we will have much more lavish decorations, as well,” she said. “Oh, and I can hardly wait to put together the wedding breakfast. I will begin the preparations for that alone tomorrow. I was thinking about wreathes and streamers, and maybe some special ornaments.”
Annabelle nodded again, her smile widening.
“You are truly very kind,” she said. “It sounds like a wonderful day already.”
Marjorie, ever the enthusiastic hostess, continued discussing the details of the upcoming wedding. Her excitement was contagious, each utterance painting a vibrant picture of a hopeful future. The silk and lace of the bridal gown, the fragrance of blooming roses, the melodies that would grace the air—all were described with a loving care that brought them to life in Annabelle’s mind.
Adrian leaned in, his voice filled with warmth.
“And if Aunt Marjorie has her way, half of England will be in attendance,” he said.
Annabelle laughed, her joy echoing through the hall.
“That might not be such a bad thing,” she said. “It would certainly be a wedding to remember.”
