"Everyone," Faye began, drawing the attention of Verity and her mother, "I have an announcement to make." She took a deep breath, her excitement barely contained. "James and I have some wonderful news to share. Now that you are here with us.”
“You do?” Verity’s heart raced.
James grinned and took Faye’s hand. “We are expecting our first child!” he declared, his voice brimming with joy.
Verity felt a genuine surge of happiness for her cousin and her husband. Despite her own troubles, the sight of their joy was infectious.
“Oh, Faye, that is wonderful news!” Verity exclaimed, reaching over to hug her cousin. “I am so happy for you both.”
Her mother beamed with pride. “A new addition to the family! What a blessing. We must celebrate this joyous occasion.”
As they discussed potential names and nursery decorations, Verity’s thoughts drifted to her own uncertain future. She knew that Ambrose wanted a male heir, and the day would come when she would have her own pregnancy to announce. But unlike Faye and James, her news would not be met with the same unbridled happiness. The thought of bringing a child into her loveless marriage with Ambrose filled her with dread.
After some time, Verity found herself sitting quietly, sipping her lemonade and watching the others as they talked happily about everything. She could not help but think about howdifferent her life would be if she were free to marry for love, like Faye and James. If she could actually be excited about the prospect of marriage and babies.
James noticed her silence and came to sit beside her. “Are you alright, Verity?” he asked gently.
Verity forced a smile. “Yes, just lost in thought. I am so happy for you and Faye. You shall make wonderful parents.”
James studied her for a moment, concern in his eyes. “You know, Verity, you deserve happiness too. Don’t give up on that.”
Verity nodded, but the heaviness in her chest remained. She appreciated James’ concern, but the reality of her situation with Ambrose felt like an insurmountable barrier to overcome.
Faye came over and gently touched Verity’s arm. “Are you sure you are alright, Verity? You seem a bit distant this afternoon.”
Verity took a deep breath and smiled, trying to push aside her worries. She felt like she could be a little more honest with her cousin.
“Yes, Faye. I am genuinely happy for you and James. It’s just that... seeing you both so joyful made me reflect on my own situation.”
Faye’s eyes softened with understanding. “I know things are difficult with Ambrose. But you must remember that you have a family who loves you and supports you. We are here for you, no matter what.”
Verity felt a lump forming in her throat, but this time it wasn't one of sadness or regret. It was one of gratitude.
“Thank you, Faye. You really are amazing…”
Suddenly, a familiar figure caught Verity’s eye, one that halted her sentence before it fully spilled out. Her heart leaped as she recognized the man, out for a ride on his magnificent stallion.
Philip.
He sat tall in the saddle, his expression thoughtful yet determined.
Verity’s breath caught in her throat as their eyes met across the park, a rush of emotions flooding through her at the unexpected sight. As he drew near, their eyes locked, sending a host of butterflies fluttering in Verity’s stomach.
She felt a rush of excitement and nervousness, remembering their previous encounters and the undeniable connection they shared. Verity could not help but admire Philip’s commanding presence and the easy grace with which he sat upon his horse. Did he have to look so handsome? It made her stomach twist up in knots.
Philip brought his horse to a stop near the picnic party and dismounted. His gaze never left Verity’s, and she found herself rooted to the spot, her heart pounding with anticipation.
“Good afternoon, Lord Easton,” Faye greeted him cheerfully, her tone inviting.
Philip’s gaze shifted briefly to Faye and James before returning to Verity.
“Good afternoon, Lord and Lady Barrington, and Lady and Miss Sinclair,” he replied, his voice low and resonant. “What a pleasant surprise to find you here.”
Verity’s heart raced at the sound of his voice, her cheeks flushing slightly under his intense gaze.
“Yes, it’s indeed a pleasant surprise,” she managed to say, her voice betraying a hint of nervousness. “Very pleasant indeed.”
She did not know that Faye and James knew Philip.
