Page 72 of Stolen By the Duke of Ice
He stood up, restless. He went to the window and pushed the drapes open. Looking out, he saw that the moon was out tonight.
Tomorrow, their visitors would arrive. Peter was not sure if he awaited that happening or if he wished it not.
One thing is sure, I—we—will not have Dahlia to ourselves anymore. Which is all for the better. Yes, it is for the better.
Closing the drapes, he went back to bed.
Is it?
Chapter Fifteen
“Helena!”
Dahlia rushed to her friend as Helena descended from their carriage and hurried to her too.
“Oh, Dahlia, I have missed you so!”
“And I you!”
“Look at us, crying as if it has been years when really, it has only been little more than a sennight.”
“Well, it seems like years!” Dahlia wiped her eyes.
“Perhaps we should ask our guests inside, Dahlia?”
Peter stood a short distance, an amused smile on his face as he watched the two friends’ heartfelt reunion.
“Oh, what am I thinking!”
“Your Grace.” Helena dropped into a curtsy. She signaled for the young lady beside her to do the same.
Charity, Helena’s sister, was eighteen and was to enter her first season. She curtsied to Peter as well.
Peter bowed.
“Welcome to Icedale Castle, Lady Helena, Lady Chastity. I hope your stay with us will be a pleasant one.”
“I’m sure it shall be.”
“Come let us get you inside and out of this cold. Dinner is waiting for you.”
They walked inside, Dahlia and Helena arm in arm.
As they walked, Dahlia greeted Charity with more composure.
“Hello, Charity. How was your trip? I hope it was tolerable for you?”
“How far from London you now live, Dahlia?” Looking at what she could see of the castle in the dark, she exclaimed, “But I must say, how beautiful it is!”
“It is rather beautiful, is it not?”
Waiting for them inside were Mary and Claire. Upon seeing the newly arrived visitors, the twins stepped forward and curtsied as introductions were made.
“Let me show you your rooms.” Dahlia took Helena’s hand.
“And we shall show you yours, Chastity.” Mary smiled at their visitor.
“I shall leave you to it, ladies.” Peter bowed.
