The Devious Seduction 0f A Wayward Duke (Steamy Historical Romance)
Page 31
“We used to have the most fabulous parties.” Her eyes shone with nostalgia as a smile came to her face. She gestured with her hand as she told her stories. “One would be able to hear the band playing from across the gardens. Then my father died and my mother squandered what remained of his estate. Instead of the glorious wedding and aristocratic life of which I dreamed, I became a governess.”
Phoebe nodded slowly and dried her eyes. “You’re right. Worse things can happen. I will have a good life. Forgive me. I must seem a selfish child to you.”
“You misunderstand me, Lady Phoebe.” Miss Bennet’s voice was still soft and soothing. “What I mean to say is that although my life is not the life of which I dreamed, I have found happiness in accepting my fate. It has been a joy to watch you grow, and I have experienced deeper and closer relationships in my life due to this role, without the pressures of titles and social expectations upon my shoulders. Life can surprise us with a happiness we never predicted.
“What is it that scares you so about the prospect of being Lord Huxley’s wife?”
“I’m fearful he will condescend to and limit me.”
Miss Bennet nodded and patted Phoebe’s hand kindly. “I don’t believe it. I watched the Lord Huxley grow just as I watched you, My Lady. He has a good heart, and if there is any chauvinism in him, I know nobody more capable of opening his eyes. You will be good for each other.”
She stroked Phoebe’s hair softly. “And as of Lord Boltmon, he has been a wonderful friend to you, but it is not to be your husband. The eldest daughter will always be betrothed to the eldest son. You have had more time with Lord Boltmon to grow to love him, but I am certain you will feel the same about Lord Huxley in time. Every gentleman has his own qualities. You simply need to discover those that abide within Lord Huxley. Didn’t I hear him say he was going to take you to the botanic gardens?”
“Yes.”
“What a wonderful opportunity to find what is special about this gentleman.” Miss Bennet knelt in front of Phoebe and used her handkerchief to dry her eyes in a motherly fashion. “Now, dry those eyes, my dear, and don’t let your father see you cry.”
“He would be furious to hear me speaking so.”
“Men are privileged to have choices that aren’t available to us ladies; it makes them lose their empathy. But you can trust that your father loves you immensely, and he would never offer your hand to a gentleman he didn’t believe would treat you well.”
“I know he wouldn’t. I know he believes this is the best choice for me and our family. And I know it will be a good life. I do. Yet I feel sorrow for the life I would have chosen.”
Miss Bennet’s face was pained as if she were holding back her own tears. In fact, Phoebe could see a thin line of tears suspended in her eyes.
“My poor Lady, sorrow will do you no good. You are old enough now to understand—that choice never existed. You are grieving for the loss of a life that would never have been yours. You may not marry Lord Boltmon, but you will be spared life with a violent or cruel gentleman, spared a life of poverty and work. And you will have your father and those who love you with you always.
“Lift your chin, my darling, and know that you are blessed and loved.”
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Also by Olivia Bennet
Thank you for reading The Devious Seduction of a Wayward Duke!
I hope you enjoyed it! If you did, may I ask you to please write a review HERE? It would mean very much to me. Reviews are very important and allow me to keep writing the books that you love to read!
Some other stories of mine:
An Immoral Dilemma for the Scandalous Lady
The Marquess in Her Bed
Lusting for the Broken Earl
An Untamed Governess for the Rogue
A Sinful Duke she can’t Refuse
A Ravishing Night with the Mysterious Earl
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Thank you for allowing me to keep doing what I love!
Olivia Bennet
About the Author
Having obtained a degree in Journalism, but with an affinity for literature and creative writing, Olivia Bennet knew from a young age that her future lay in the romantic ideals of the past. With a fascination for the Regency era and a good romance, she started her career as a historical romance author the old-fashioned way: with pen and paper.
Born in rural Devon, Olivia draws inspiration from the vast farmlands of the British countryside and the people living in the surrounding villages. An avid artist, she takes her sketchbook everywhere with her and captures the beauty of nature, which she then incorporates into her books.
Allow your conscious to be carried away on a wind made of letters and words, of love, mystery and the magic of the Regency era. Start your journey and allow Olivia’s pen to guide you!