It has been a month, and he seldom regards her. It must be challenging to be his partner. This is an experience I cannot comprehend and have no desire to comprehend. My priority was to escape this palace, not to fantasise about being Prince Jayce’s consort.
I was relieved that Vera accepted responsibility as the maid he marked; I am uncertain how I would have reacted had they discovered it was I. Instinctively, as is my habit when recalling the night he marked me, my fingers grazed the area he bit. I no longer conceal it with makeup frequently, as my hair predominantly obscures it. I only cover it when I am required to wear my hair up.
I descended the stairs and observed that Lady Jane was absent; she likely retreated to her room to settle in or was with Jayce elsewhere. This was information I could not disclose to Vera if it proved accurate. I do not believe they were intimate, yet Jayce possessed a certain charm with women and appeared to relish exploiting them for his own advantage.
Lena occurred to me.
Therefore, I found it peculiar that he has not pursued Vera in any manner.
Approaching his study, I observed his guards stationed in the hallway, positioned outside his door. Both exhibited an expression of ennui. Few dared to disturb Prince Ashton in his study, as he seldom permitted entry, necessitating the presence of guards to deter intrusions. Vera was confident they would grant me access, yet I remained uncertain.
As I drew near, my anxiety intensified.
They obstructed my path before I could articulate much.
“You are proceeding in the incorrect direction, maid,” one of the guards remarked, gesturing towards the opposite way.
“I have come to speak with Prince Ashton on behalf of Lady Vera,” I elucidated.
“He prohibits visitors from entering his study,” the other guard stated, crossing his arms over his chest.
“If you could merely inform him…” I attempted to articulate, but the initial guard advanced towards me, prompting an immediate recoil.
“He prohibits visitors…” he attempted to articulate once more but halted at the sound of the door to Ashton’s study swinging open.
I attracted his attention while he stood at his door; initially, he appeared perplexed, tilting his head with a hesitant frown. However, he then smiled; both guards regarded him with astonishment for a brief moment before redirecting their focus to me.
“Permit her entry,” Ashton commanded.
“Prince Ashton…” I articulated, executing a curtsy as I spoke.
“Molly,” he replied. “I am astonished that you have arrived here.” I have not seen you at the library.
The guards exchanged glances and moved aside to allow my passage; Ashton positioned himself next to his door, providing sufficient space for me to enter.
“I have come to discuss Prince Jayce,” I stated quietly as he shut the door.
He raised his eyebrows in astonishment.
I had never entered his study prior and was uncertain of what to anticipate; however, upon observing the room’s ambiance, I was not at all astonished. It exuded a warm atmosphere, illuminated solely by a candlelit chandelier. A plush maroon rug welcomed my feet as I stepped onto it, harmonising with the maroon panelling adorning the wooden walls. I was not surprised by the numerous bookshelves in the study; it prompted me to ponder why he frequently frequented the library despite possessing an extensive collection of his own books.
As Vera anticipated, the book he had borrowed from the library approximately a month prior lay face down on his desk, suggesting he was still engaged in reading it upon my arrival. I was astonished that he had not yet completed the book, given that over a month had elapsed. Aware that the due date was imminent, I glanced at him, raising my eyebrows as he circled his desk and marked his place in the book.
He laughed softly while observing my expression.
“I have not had ample time to read recently,” he elucidated. “Lady Elsie occupies my time.”
I nodded and endeavoured to maintain an impassive expression as he nonchalantly referenced Lady Elsie. I was gratified that they were investing considerable time together. They were married now, and he merited someone as exquisite as Lady Elsie, just as she warranted someone as remarkable as Prince Ashton.
My recent interaction with Ashton was peculiar, yet I endeavoured to dismiss that notion. He has consistently shown me kindness, which is why Ms. Shirley proposed that I communicate with Ashton on Vera’s behalf.
How are you finding the book?I enquired.
“It is innovative,” he replied. “Exactly as you predicted.”
“It is among my favourites,” I replied.
The library lacks its former essence in your absence. However, Ashton remarked that Kylie has been performing admirably.
My eyes expanded at the reference to Kylie.
“I was unaware that she assumed my position,” I remarked, expressing satisfaction that it was someone I trusted.
The library was a simple task, yet I would have resented anyone who lacked a passion for literature assuming my responsibilities. Similar to me, Kylie cherished reading; it was one of our numerous shared interests. I particularly appreciated that, now that I was aware of her whereabouts on specific days, I could visit her.
Or at a minimum, endeavour to do so.
Indeed, I anticipated that you would prefer a companion to assume your role. Ashton elucidated that he had made certain arrangements to facilitate that occurrence.
I gazed at him in astonishment; how was he aware that Kylie and I were friends?
“Do you long for it?”“He enquired, scrutinising my visage.”
I made eye contact with him.
“I do,” I replied gently. However, I concealed the sorrow on my visage. I adjusted my posture and was poised to shift the topic, but he preempted me.
What aspect of my brother did you wish to discuss?“He enquired, mirth glimmering in his eyes.”
