In a decisive gesture, the Duke smoothly took the basket from her and, without a word, turned around to head back towards his daughter and the energetic puppy.
Left with no choice but to follow, Evelina trailed behind, her steps measured as she attempted to slow her racing heart.
The day had begun with her planning a picnic for herself, the Duke, and Eliza at the estate gardens. The sun cast a warm golden glow over the meticulously manicured inner gardens, painting the scene with a soft, ethereal light. A checkered blanket was spread out under the shade of a majestic oak tree, its sprawling branches providing a canopy of dappled sunlight.
Delicate porcelain tea sets adorned the makeshift table, accompanied by an array of delectable treats carefully arranged on delicate plates. The air was filled with the melodic chirping of birds and the bubbling of the fountain nearby, adding a tranquil background to the picturesque scene.
Evelina’s attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the picnic, from the delicious refreshments to the selection of the spot. Yet, she found herself in a predicament despite the success of the afternoon. Nonetheless the idyllic setting, a cloud of unease hung over her heart.
The realization that she had developed feelings for Gabriel had woven a thread of nervous tension into every interaction. Even his proximity unsettled her.
The once easy rapport and banter she shared with the duke now felt like a tightrope walk, each moment fraught with her unspoken emotions. She was terribly more conscious of everything she did around him.
In contrast, Gabriel seemed more at ease in her presence with each passing day, only adding another layer of complexity to her emotions.
His newfound comfort around her was a mystery she couldn’t quite unravel. His shift from guarded reserve to playful banter left her off balance, unsure of how to navigate this new dynamic.
Their meetings to discuss Eliza’s lessons and ways to strengthen his bond with her had transformed from tense exchanges to lighthearted moments filled with banter and laughter.
More often than not, one would find them with Gabriel’s teasing eliciting blushes and stammers from her, as well as short, tense moments that were unexplainable.
“Eliza, dearest, do you finally feel at ease now that our ‘newest’ family member has had his fill?” Gabriel playfully nudged his daughter, a twinkle in his eyes.
Evelina joined in the banter as she sat down on the blanket. “Indeed, what a forgetful tutor I am! Neglecting to give poor Whiskers his share of fruits. I shall make amends promptly, rest assured.”
Eliza’s shy giggle rang out as she offered an apple to the dog. “Here you go, little one. Enjoy your treat.” Her eyes sparkled with affection for her furry friend before flicking to Evelina and Gabriel. A grateful smile spread across her face. “Yes, thank you, both of you.”
Gabriel affectionately patted his daughter’s head. “Well done, my dear. Now that Whiskers is content, our afternoon can truly begin.”
Eliza’s laughter mingled with the rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze, as though creating a harmonious melody of bonds and simple joys of the moment.
As she gave Whiskers another apple, she turned to her father and Evelina with an eager smile. “Shall we play another round of hide-and-seek, today?”
Gabriel let out a groan and threw his head back in mock exhaustion. “You are… beginning to favor this game more than I can handle at this point.”
“Oh, Your Grace.” Evelina couldn’t keep the grin off her face witnessing him be so expressive, “Are you certain that your main issue with the game isn’t your continuous losing streak?”
His eyes lazily roamed over to her as he grinned in return. “Such is said from the one who is barely a league ahead of me.”
Evelina could not contain her chortle, “I beg your finest pardon? I would remind you, Your Grace, we came to a tie when playing in the same positions.”
“Only because I let you win. You don’t seem to take failure well, Miss Balfour,” he teased, shaking his head.
“Ah, and I was under the impression that lying wasn’t the gentlemanly thing to do. Have the rules changed?”
They burst into laughter.
Eliza, her face lit up with excitement, stood up sharply. “Let’s begin! I’ll count this time, and you both find the hiding spots.”
“Oh, great heavens.”
Evelina laughed as Gabriel stood up reluctantly, his head in his hands. She clasped her hands together in excitement.
“All right? Are we ready?”
As Eliza started counting, the adults dashed off, their movements frantic as they sought out hiding places.
“Ready? Ready or not, here I come!”
