Page 38 of A Governess' Forbidden Flame
The air in the room seemed to shimmer with an unspoken understanding as if the cards themselves bore witness to the budding attraction between the two. In the midst of the card game’s structured elegance, a current of something deeper flowed. Their exchanged smiles carried a promise, a silent acknowledgment of a connection that went beyond the confines of the morning’s leisurely activities.
After they had enough of cards, Anna had a suggestion that everyone accepted with surprise and glee.
“Why don’t we all read a passage from our favorite book?” Anna suggested.
Sebastian knew that he had piles of papers waiting for him, buried in the drawers of his writing table, and a million letters that demanded an urgent response, but those were the last thing on his mind at the moment. He liked the idea of this new, more tranquil activity. Everyone proceeded to choose a literary gemthat held a special place in their hearts, sharing both the words on the page and the sentiments they evoked.
Sebastian, with a hint of mystery in his eyes, selected a passage from a classic adventure novel that mirrored the enigmatic aura surrounding Ravenscroft Manor. The words echoed tales of exploration and hidden treasures, leaving a subtle air of anticipation in the room.
Amelia surprised him with a heartfelt excerpt from a beloved Jane Austen novel and not the novel she had stated as her favorite.
“One can have more than one favorite, no?” she replied with a playful chuckle.
Anna, still nestled in the embrace of her makeshift morning sanctuary, shared a whimsical passage from a fairy tale. Her eyes sparkled with childlike wonder as she transported everyone to a world of magic and enchantment.
As the room resonated with the diverse melodies of literature, the shared readings became a harmonious symphony, reflecting the unique tastes and personalities of each participant in this delightful morning diversion.
Instead of being an obstacle to their happiness, the event from the previous day only seemed to bring them even closer together. Sebastian could not have anticipated it, not even inhis wildest dreams. The three of them had created a perfectly wondrous world of their own, and he didn’t want to return to reality.
As the day waned into quietude, Sebastian found himself by Amelia’s side, bidding Anna a fond goodnight. The little girl, nestled in the warmth of her bed, smiled at them even while they were closing the door. The look on her face told him everything he wanted to know. She was happy. That was all that mattered.
In the hushed hallway, bathed in the soft glow of the flickering candles, Sebastian turned to Amelia with a grateful expression. “Thank you,” he uttered sincerely, his eyes reflecting the profound impact the day had held for both him and Anna.
“It was truly a remarkable day,” she replied, her voice carrying a gentle undertone of shared contentment.
He could see the expectancy in her eyes, almost as if her entire body was beckoning to him to come closer to her, to touch her, but he dared not. He feared that might ruin this perfect day, something he would never forgive himself for. It was better to savor this perfect moment as something he would never have, a family of just the three of them, where the world outside the confines of Ravenscroft Manor did not exist.
“Well, then…good night, Miss Wycliffe.” He bowed as the echoes of Anna’s laughter still lingered in the air, a testament to themagical interlude they had all experienced. It had to remain as it is, perfect and untainted.
“Good night, my lord,” Amelia replied with a bashful smile.
She was the first one to turn away from him and head down the shadowy corridor. He watched her form sway softly, her gown caressing her curves, until she disappeared from sight. A part of him wanted to run after her, to pull her into his arms, to shower her face with kisses, to remind her that she belonged to him.
He swallowed heavily and turned the other way. It was better that things remain as they were at present. For them both.
Chapter 20
Amelia entered her chamber somberly, her expectations flying like kites in the autumn wind, higher and higher until she could barely see them any longer. She thought he would kiss her. No. She hadwantedhim to kiss her. Yet, he didn’t. She could sense him pulling away, refusing them both that wish.
Knowing that she would not sleep but rather spend hours wondering why he had done that, or better yet, why he had not. She would, of course, not reach an answer to that question. Therefore, it was far better to put those sleepless hours to better use. She sat down at her writing table and started her letter to her sister.
My dearest Penelope,
I trust this letter finds you in good health and high spirits. I write to share with you the events that have transpired here at Ravenscroft Manor, events that have left an indelible mark on my heart.
I have been here only a short time, and yet, I feel like I have spent years here. My fate seems intricately woven into the tapestry that is the story of this place, and my heart refuses to leave. Just yesterday, our dear Anna suffered afall in the garden. The poor child tripped and, regrettably, struck her head upon a rock. The physician attended to her promptly, assuring us that she would recover quickly with only time and rest. The scare, however, left me with a profound sense of concern and affection for this little one.
In the hours following the incident, as Anna rested and recovered, I found myself constantly by her side, offering comfort and solace. Her resilience and spirit, despite the unfortunate mishap, only deepened my admiration for her. There is an innocence in her laughter and a curiosity in her eyes that tugs at the very core of one’s being.
As her governess, my responsibility extends beyond the realms of education. It encompasses a duty of care, a duty that has grown into a genuine affection for the well-being of my young charge. Anna has become more than a pupil. She has become a cherished presence in my daily life.
It is with a grateful heart that I reflect on the days spent in the company of this spirited child. There is a warmth in her laughter and a genuine curiosity about the world that brightens even the gloomiest corners of Ravenscroft Manor. I wanted you to know, dear sister, that caring for Anna has become a privilege, and her well-being is now intertwined with my own.
I miss you so terribly. I hope you know that. I eagerly await the day when we can share such tales in person. Until then, I remain, as always, your devoted sister.
Yours affectionately,
Amelia
