Caught in the Storm of a Duke's - Abby Ayles Page 0,54

I last enjoyed a walk like this.”

“You used to take night walks back at your home in London?” he asked.

She nodded. “Yes. Sometimes, alone with Amy as company. Other times, with one or both of my parents. I enjoy a good walk very much.”

“How about your sister? You mentioned you had one.”

Judith was pleased he had noted that piece of information, and that he remembered.

“Yes, Theresa. She is four years older and has not been home in a while.”

“Is she married?”

Judith shook her head. “No. She has been touring the world. She sings. Famous as the English Nightingale. After conquering the whole of England, she decided to bless the rest of the world with her gift. Father gave his blessings, so she went on her way. She writes home often. When she returns, she shall be married to her betrothed. He waits for her with so much love and loyalty.”

Lord Henry was such a patient man, and he was evidently devoted to her sister. Sometimes, he traveled overseas to see her. When he returned, it was always with news of joy.

“The English Nightingale. Why I do believe I might have heard of her talent. Now I see why you say she is the gifted one.” There was only awe and admiration in his voice.

It made Judith smile.

“Of course, you would have heard of her. Yes, Theresa is quite special. Everyone loves her. I, even more,” she said, a fond smile on her lips. They had always been close, and Judith missed her sister very much.

“You are special as well, my lady. Very much so.”

The duke said it so simply, as though it was a matter of fact and there was no chance for dispute.

Judith looked up at him. He was looking straight ahead, so she could only see the side of his face. Even from that viewpoint, he was still incredibly handsome.

Handsome and kind.

“You flatter me, Your Grace,” she murmured.

He did not miss a beat. “Every word I say is true.”

Again, it was said so simply, she found herself believing him. Her face grew red, as the butterflies in her belly fluttered even harder.

“Thank you,” she answered, her voice soft.

He looked at her then, gracing her with a smile. His response was a nod, then he was looking away again.

“You miss her.”

It was more of a statement than a question. Still, she answered.

“Yes, very much.”

“When is she set to return?”

“This year’s end. She is to be married by Christmas.”

“Then you shall not have to wait much longer.”

Judith shook her head. “Indeed, I shall not.”

It had been a summer and half since she last saw Theresa. By the time her sister finally returned home, it would be two summers.

Judith imagined much would have changed. She hoped it was all for the better.

When Theresa told her tales of overseas, she would have her own story to tell as well. Of her time here in Dunham, with the strangest man she had ever met.

The man who first touched her heart.

“Is she the only sibling you have?” he asked after a moment’s pause.

She was quick to answer. “No. I also have a brother, Edward. He is the firstborn. He is married. His wife was heavy with child before I left. She must have delivered by now. I wonder if she truly had a boy … the midwives were almost certain, you see.”

Judith realized then that she had only just thought of that. Of course, Rachel would have given birth to her child. If only she had made it safely to Aunt Tia’s, she would have received word.

As though the duke could read her thoughts, in that moment, he said, “I am certain we shall receive word from them soon, do not worry.”

The words were few, yet so reassuring that they comforted her.

“Yes, I believe so.”

“Edward is quite the scholar,” she continued, choosing not to be dampened by sad thoughts. “He is very intelligent, well read, and well-travelled. He is also an author. All his books have been received with huge success. You see, I come from a family of highly talented individuals.”

She paused and exhaled deeply. “I wish I, too, had something to boast of. Alas, I have nothing. It is why I had to leave home, you understand? I thought being somewhere else, going on an adventure, would help me discover whatever hidden gifts I may possess or, at the very least, fill my life with stories to tell my children.”

She shook her head. “Father would not have me leave, but I insisted.