Garden of May - Chapter 2
Chapter 2
However, his client, Mr. Wyatt, had insisted on absolute clarity, down to the smallest detail, to avoid any inconvenient questions later.
“We’ll be arriving shortly. I’ll get your luggage.”
Glancing out the window, the solicitor folded his newspaper and rose from his seat. Her luggage, a small valise, was stored in the overhead compartment. He handed it to her, and she placed it neatly on her lap.
“Someone will be waiting to escort you to Gloucester Castle. Just follow them.”
“You’re not coming with me?”
“I disembark at the next station. I have a mountain of work for other clients.”
The solicitor checked his pocket watch, his tone softening slightly. The nine-hour train journey from London to Bath was arduous even for an adult. Yet, this young girl had remained composed throughout. No tears, no fidgeting, no complaints.
Considering she’d lost both parents less than a month ago, her composure was remarkable.
“What sort of man is my uncle?”
Her question pulled him from his thoughts. His eyes, narrowed in contemplation, straightened.
“I’m not sure what you mean.”
“I heard you worked with him for a long time. Overseas.”
“Well… He’s not a… gentle man. But you’re his only living relative. I doubt he’ll be unkind.”
“….”
“Things will change again in seven years, when you come of age.”
Vanessa’s eyes widened in question, her golden lashes, framing her pale grey eyes, fluttering like butterfly wings.
“How will they change?”
“You’ll be married. Then you’ll inherit the annuity that was paid to the former Countess. It’s approximately thirty thousand pounds a year.”
“Do I have to marry to inherit the annuity?”
“Or have a child. Imperial law grants inheritance rights to those with dependents. Until then, Mr. Wyatt—I mean, the new Count of Somerset—will manage your finances.”
Vanessa nodded gracefully, her posture still perfectly upright. Not a flicker of emotion betrayed the fact that she wouldn’t have access to a single coin of her inheritance until she reached adulthood. He wondered if she’d even understood.
Of course, at her age, such complex matters as annuities and inheritance were probably beyond her comprehension. The train hissed to a stop at the platform.
“North Somerset, Bath Station! Please collect your belongings! The train will depart in ten minutes!”
Passengers surged into the aisle, jostling for position. Vanessa stood, her face slightly tense as she clutched her valise. She took a few steps and then stumbled, swaying precariously.
“Good heavens.”
The solicitor caught her arm, surprised. She’d seemed so composed while seated, but her body was burning with fever.
“You’ll need to see a doctor when you arrive at the castle.”
“Thank you for your concern, but it’s not that serious.”
“You have a high fever.”
“Will you tell my uncle?”
“Of course.”
“It’s nothing serious. I’m just… excited, I think.”
“Excited?”
“I have fond memories of summers at Gloucester Castle. I’m very sad now, but I’m sure I’ll be happy again once I’m settled.”
Vanessa touched her flushed cheek with the back of her hand, offering a genuinely childish smile.
“Please don’t tell my uncle. I don’t want him to worry.”
The solicitor was momentarily speechless. He prided himself on his ability to handle any situation, yet this innocent girl filled him with a strange sense of shame. All he could manage was a weak, “I wish you all the best, Vanessa.”
“Thank you. You’re very kind.”
“You should go now. The train is about to leave.”
Vanessa stepped off the train, waving goodbye. The solicitor watched her walk away, a belated pang of guilt twisting in his gut.
Life would be difficult for her now, but her future seemed bright. With her delicate features, elegant bearing, and angelic smile, she was destined to become a great beauty, one who would undoubtedly captivate society.
A woman’s happiness and success, after all, were often determined by the price of her marriage. Even a scoundrel like Wyatt wouldn’t undervalue a jewel like Vanessa. With her beauty and gentle nature, she would easily win her husband’s heart. Perhaps I’m worrying needlessly. In a few years, she’ll likely make headlines with news of a brilliant marriage.
He pushed aside his unease, unfolding his newspaper once more. He was tired, and he longed for the comfort of a hotel bed before nightfall.
Exactly seven years later, as he, and everyone who knew Lady Vanessa, had predicted, she did indeed make headlines. Not for her marriage, however, but for a scandal.
