Ruth closed her eyes, counting from ten back, and when she got to
zero, she looked up once more.
“I am sorry if I accused you without merit. I lost my temper. As did you. We should remember we are sisters who love one another.”
Sophia crossed her arms in front of her chest and glared at her.
“I doubt you know what it means to love, as you do not act like a
loving sister at all. You are selfish and think only of yourself.”
“What is this bickering about?” Their father’s red face appeared in
the doorway. “I heard you all the way from down the grand hall. Do you intend to mortify me in front of our hosts?”
“It is I who is mortified, for I am completely humiliated by her!” She pointed her index finger at Ruth, a quiver in her voice. “I assume you know she stole Lord Rotham right from under my nose.”
The Duke of Twilightfare’s hands flew up to his temples. Rubbing
them vigorously, he shook his head and faced his daughter.
“Sophia, please do not be impertinent. You were never promised a
courtship, much less a marriage. I know this has all been awfully sudden for you, but it seems Lord Rotham has made a choice for a bride and it isn’t you.”
Sophia’s nose twitched at this rebuke. “I should have known you
would take her side. You have always favored her over me. Always.” She stomped her feet and rushed out of the room without so much as another word.
Ruth stepped toward the narrow writing desk and placed her hands on the edge, supporting herself.
“Papa, I trust you know what has transpired between myself and Lord Rotham.”
“I do. I spoke to him at length. And it seems the two of you have
come to an agreement. One that doesn’t please your sister.” She turned her head toward him, the flawless side of her face pointing his way.
“Am I making a cake of myself? Am I ruining our family because I desire to be loved?”
Her father was at her side within a moment and placed both hands on her shoulders.
“Never. I have told you that you deserve to be loved all of your
life. Now you have the chance. Do not let it slip through your fingers because you are concerned about hurting your sister. It is not her heart that aches, just her pride.”
“Papa, I fear the Duchess has been a terrible influence on her.”
He dropped his arms and pressed his lips together. “I believe you are
right. I have seen changes in her these past few days I do not care for. I can only hope once we return home, she will be released from the Duchess’ grasp. I was glad for the companionship between them at first, but now…”
“She has taken to the lady a little too well. Faith, Papa. What am I to do? Lord Rotham wanted to wait until I had spoken to Sophia before telling his father that he wishes to court me officially.”
Her father shook his head. “Do not fret. I shall find him. I will talk to His Grace with him. I know the Duke would have preferred a match with Sophia, but he will see how happy you and his son are together.”
Ruth smiled at her father and for a moment considered telling him of the missing shards. She dismissed the idea for there was no need to further upset him. She’d resolve the matter herself.
“What of Lord Cragshade? He has announced his intention to depart but is now wavering in his conviction. I cannot quite make out what his intentions are. They are so vague. His path to the Dukedom is ever so murky, yet he is determined. I fear he is somewhat of… a simpleton.” In spite of herself, Ruth chuckled.