---- 304.
MY HUSBAND'S WELCOME KATHERINE The fine black boots touched the cobblestones of the inner courtyard.
The corset restricted my movements, forcing me to step carefully as I descended, using the coachmans hand for support.
I struggled not to let my gaze wander too much, not to show any awe at the imposing white stone fortress before me.
The castle was magnificent, adorned with intricate details and luxury in every corner.
"Your Grace, welcome." Awoman with gray-streaked hair, pulled tightly into a bun, stepped forward to greet me, accompanied by several maids.
She was the housekeeper.
I had studied everyone here.
"Mrs.
Prescott, have my luggage taken to my room," I ordered coldly, following my words with a few fake coughs as I pulled my heavy cloak tighter around my chest.
My voice was huskier than my sisters.
After so many years gagged, speaking only when necessary, it was difficult to make my vocal cords function properly again.
So, I pretended to still be recovering from the pulmonary illness Rossella had used as an excuse to retreat to the countryside for a month.
"Yes, Your Grace, right away.
Ive also had the fireplace lit in your chamber, and your rose bath is prepared," she responded efficiently, handing me warm cloths to wipe my hands.
---- "My daughter.
How is she?" It was the only thing I had truly cared about since setting foot here.
As I walked gracefully toward the grand staircase leading to the main doors, I held my breath, desperate for the answer.
"Lady Lavinia is studying in her room." My heart skipped a beat.
I wanted to run to her.
My steps echoed through the vast grand hall.
Thad never set foot in this place before, yet it felt as though I had known it my entire life.
I had studied the blueprints, the staff, every single detail Rossella had given me.
"Freya, come with me.
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Her things will be placed in the nearest vacant room next to my daughter's," I commanded.
My old nursemaid followed closely.
No one dared challenge me at least not openly.
Though I caught a few disdainful glances from some of the maids standing in a corner, I ignored them.
Perhaps it was just my nerves.
Deep down, I was terrified.
I concealed my trembling hands in the folds of my cloak, keeping my chin high, my demeanor arrogant.
The housekeeper led the way.
We ascended the plush red-carpeted stairs, the massive tapestries covering the stone walls, and above us, a golden chandelier hung from the towering ceiling.
The air smelled of freshly polished wood, fragrant flowers in overflowing vases, and delicious food wafting in from the castles kitchens.---- Everything here was new to me.
Incredible.
At least my daughter had lived a good life.
Far better than the one I could have given her in our tiny cottage in the countryside.
BAM! BAM! I flinched at the sudden gunshots followed by the violent crash of a struggle, furious growls.
"You're a fool if you think you can steal from me right under my nose!" "How dare you embezzle funds from my Duchy?!" Iturned sharply toward the hallway ahead, where a study door burst open with force.
A tall, intimidating man strode out.
Dragging something behind him.
His tailored suit did little to hide his massive build, his movements rough, wildas if he were more beast than noble.
And in his iron grip, he held...
Abody? Stunned, I watched as he halted at the landing of the stairs and flung the man over the edge.
A lifeless figure, his shirt soaked in blood, a bullet wound pierced cleanly through his forehead.
The dark-haired Duke gave a callous push with his boot, sending the corpse rolling down the carpeted steps, leaving a vivid red trail until it landed with a dull thud on the marble floor.
Apool of blood immediately began to spread.
It all happened in mere seconds.
!!!
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