Judith shook her head quickly. “No, thank you. I need a moment alone.”
Aaron’s expression turned into one of confusion, his brow furrowing slightly. “Are you sure?”
“Yes, absolutely,” she replied, trying to keep her tone light. “I’ll be back shortly.”
As she walked away, she could feel his puzzled gaze on her back. Her mind was a whirl of conflicting emotions, and she needed a moment to gather her thoughts.
The lively atmosphere of the ballroom seemed distant, the laughter and music muted as she approached the refreshments table. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, but the unease in her stomach remained.
The banquet room was a quieter, more subdued space compared to the bustling ballroom. The soft clinking of glasses and the low murmur of conversations provided a stark contrast to the lively music and laughter outside. The room was adorned with rich, dark wood paneling and velvet drapes, creating an intimate atmosphere. A large table laden with various pastries, cakes, and lemonade stood in the center.
Judith sat at a small table in the corner, staring absentmindedly at a slice of cake on her plate. Her mind was a whirlwind of confusion and unease. The revelation about Aaron’s past engagement had unsettled her more than she cared to admit. As she tried to make sense of her thoughts, a young man entered the room.
It was the one Lord Pembroke had pointed out as Lady Lundgren’s brother. He was tall and lanky, with a serious expression.
Approaching her, he bowed politely. “Lady Judith?” he inquired.
Judith looked up, surprised. “Yes, I am Lady Judith,” she confirmed, her curiosity piqued. “May I ask how you know who I am?”
“I saw you speaking with Aaron Fitzwilliam, the Duke of Nottingham,” he admitted, his tone polite but firm.
Judith grew uncomfortable, her grip tightening on her fan. “And you are?”
“Thomas Cornell,” he introduced himself with a slight bow. “Lady Lundgren is my sister.”
Judith felt a knot form in her stomach. “I see,” she muttered, trying to maintain her composure.
She began to fan herself, the motion more an attempt to gather her thoughts than to cool herself.
Thomas seemed to sense her discomfort. “Please, Lady Judith, I mean you no harm,” he said softly. “I am simply concerned. Do you truly know the Duke of Nottingham?”
Judith’s evasiveness became more pronounced. “He is a friend of my brother’s,” she replied, her eyes darting around the room.
Just then, someone else entered, momentarily breaking the tension.
Thomas took a step closer, lowering his voice. “I understand, but I urge you to be cautious. He is not the man he appears to be.”
Judith’s heart raced, the mix of curiosity and dread making her pulse quicken. “Why do you say that?” she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
Thomas looked around the room, then back at her. “Would you step outside with me? I can explain more, but not here.”
Judith hesitated, glancing at her maid, who had just walked into the room and was waiting nearby. “My maid would have to come with us,” she said, her voice firm.
“Of course,” Thomas agreed immediately. “I understand completely.”
Judith stood up, signaling to Marianne.
They made their way through the banquet room, the heavy air of murmured conversations following them as they stepped into the garden. The cool night air was a welcome relief, the quiet of the garden a stark contrast to the overwhelming atmosphere inside.
The moon cast a pale light over the manicured hedges and blooming flowers, creating an almost surreal atmosphere. Judith walked alongside Thomas, feeling both curious and apprehensive. She took a deep breath, trying to steady hernerves as he prepared to speak. Marianne followed closely behind, her presence a small comfort.
“Lady Judith,” Thomas began, his voice low and urgent. “I need you to understand that Aaron is not a good man. He has caused my sister immeasurable heartache. She is trapped in a horrible marriage because of him. He ruined her.”
Judith felt a chill run down her spine. “Why are you telling me this?” she asked, her voice trembling slightly. “Why do you feel the need to warn me about Aaron?”
Thomas sighed, his frustration evident. “Because I don’t want to see another woman suffer the way my sister has. Aaron is a rake of the worst order. He hides many secrets, and you won’t be safe with him.”
Judith felt a surge of defiance mixed with doubt. “With all due respect, Lord Thomas, I don’t know you at all. My brother trusts Aaron. I appreciate your concern, but I will follow my brother’s lead.”
