‘Oh, Sally,” her mother exclaimed and wrapped her arms around her, drawing her in. “I love you.”
As mother and daughter stood locked in a tender embrace, Sally felt a glimmer of hope blossom. Perhaps with her mother at her side, she would manage to get past the hurt Leonard inflicted. And perhaps with her guidance, Sally would manage to navigate this maze she was trapped in after all. Somehow.
CHAPTER31
Leonard
When Leonard descended the grand staircase, his eyes widened in astonishment at the transformation that had taken place in the house. He’d known Sally had worked on the grand ball most of the week, but he hadn’t been involved with the preparations himself.
Instead, he’d gotten out of her away, though he’d quietly helped as much as he could. He’d ensured with messages and personal visits that all the foods were of the finest quality, and when he’d heard that a few of the higher-ranking peers were not looking to come because they did not see a point in visiting a new Duchess’s first ball, he’d apply quiet pressure to ensure their attendance.
Of course, he’d understood that he had to be present because without the Duke at his Duchess’ ball, there would be talk. Thus, he’d delayed his departure to Portugal by a week. He hadn’t told Sally any of this – aside from his trip’s date - not wanting her to know he was helping her. This was important to her, especially because she wanted to make a mark on society.
Thus, he hadn’t wanted to make her feel as though she needed his help. She wouldn’t want it anyway, not after that had happened.
“Isn’t it grand?” Mrs. Farnsworth said as she passed him. “Her Grace has outdone herself.”
She beamed as she carried a box of fresh candles past him.
“Indeed, she has,” he replied. The older woman paused and looked at him with a smile.
“I am glad that you changed your departure date. It is so important for everyone to see both of you together at the reception line,” she said, then walked off. The reception line. Right. He hadn’t thought of that. He should be there, shouldn’t he?
His father, horrid as he was, had always stood beside his mother for this portion of any ball. For appearances sake if for nothing else. He inhaled, almost tasting the food being cooked below stairs and looked around the lower floor, taking care not to get in the way of the servants who darted to and fro, their movements choreographed with practiced precision.
As he made his way towards the music room, Leonard’s gaze was drawn to the buffet spread before him. His heart skipped a beat at the sight of miniature hot cross buns, a nostalgic reminder of the quiet hours they had shared in Sally’s chamber when she took ill.
“Your Grace,” Mary said as she placed a bottle on the sideboard.
“Good evening, Mary. Say, why are we serving hot cross buns? Easter has now passed.”
Mary’s eyes sparkled with amusement as she responded, “Her Grace requested them. She thought they were something you both enjoy, so she wanted to have them available.”
He felt a flicker of warmth at the realization that Sally had considered his preferences, even amidst the chaos that was their relationship.
His hand unconsciously rose to his lips, the memory of their kiss lingering like a bittersweet melody. It had been their first real kiss, a kiss he’d wanted for some time but never thought could come to pass. It shouldn’t have, of course, for it had plunged him further into his inner conflict. And in that moment, Leonard had tasted the sweetness of what could have been, only to be left longing for more due to his convictions.
Before he could dwell further on his thoughts, the sound of approaching footsteps drew his attention.
“Leonard, old chap, you look positively dashing tonight!” Aaron exclaimed, his infectious grin lighting up the room.
Forced to set aside his inner turmoil, Leonard plastered on a smile of his own as he greeted his friend.
“Aaron, you’re early,” Leonard remarked, his eyebrows raised in mild astonishment.
Aaron’s grin widened as he shrugged nonchalantly. Then, he held up a bottle of wine. Leonard recognized the label as one from their Spanish vineyard. “Couldn’t resist bringing a little something for us to enjoy before the festivities,” he replied, waving the bottle of wine in Leonard’s direction.
Leonard’s gaze flickered to the bottle, his lips pressing into a thin line as he considered Aaron’s offer. “Thanks, but I think I’ll pass,” he declined politely, a sense of fortitude firming his resolve. “I need to be myself tonight. For Sally’s sake.”
A flicker of disappointment crossed Aaron’s features, though he quickly masked it with a casual shrug. Setting the bottle down with a resigned sigh, he turned his attention back to Leonard. “Well, alright then. So, are you ready for your trip?” he asked with anticipation.
Leonard’s jaw tightened imperceptibly at the reminder of his impending journey. “Yes,” he replied tersely. “Tickets are booked, trunks will be packed tomorrow. Wednesday, I set off for Dover, and Thursday, I’ll be gone.”
Aaron’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, a hint of concern flashing in his eyes. “And how does Sally feel about all this?” he inquired.
Leonard’s stomach clenched at the mention of Sally’s reaction, a shiver coursing down his spine as he recalled their dinner conversation just two nights prior. “I... I told her at dinner. I started out telling her that I had originally planned to leave sooner but changed it due to her ball but it really did not make a difference. “He admitted reluctantly, his voice trailing off. “She... she only nodded.”
“Well, that is what you wanted. I can’t say I blame her. You’ve made it clear what you want out of this marriage. I’ve told you before, you need to let her be. best for you both that you go on your journey. Might be even better if you stay a little longer,” Aaron’s words struck Leonard like a cold gust of wind. He knew, deep down, that his friend was right. Staying away would spare Sally the pain of his indecision, the constant back-and-forth that had come to define them.
