Lucas (Gentlemen of War series Book 1) by Leah Moyes

Author:Leah Moyes [Moyes, Leah]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-01-09T00:00:00+00:00

Twenty-six

Helena

Sitting at my desk, I fingered the old missive from my Aunt Patricia. The day’s events surrounding the moment I had received this letter had swung from highs to lows—from spending time with the sisters to the private conversation in the study, then back to the flower arrangements, and an oddly quiet evening meal, after which I hastily excused myself for the evening.

As expected, the conversation in the study occupied most of my thoughts and attention, so I had not a moment to devote to this letter. While I should have known Lucas would discover my identity soon enough, I had not anticipated his warmth and compassion once he did. This was on the heel of our bristly introduction followed by his relentless teasing. It was as if I viewed him in an entirely different light and, no matter how hard I tried, I could not ignore it. His words… Please know that my word is sincere. You are safe here, resonated deep within. How could one not be swept away by the romanticism of a heroic protector?

I shook my head. But that is all he is… a protector… a guardian like unto his sisters.

Unfolding the parchment, I banished Lucas from my mind and read.

Dearest Helena,

My heart continues to be with you during this most difficult time. I pray with all my might that you might find comfort in the love and friendship of those around you. Your mother’s presence will be sorely missed. She was a guiding light for many. I cannot comprehend the things one might do in grief, but please do not blame your father. He is feeling the loss of his soulmate and the love of his life, and his decisions are only made to keep you from feeling the depth of pain. One day, I hope he will see the wisdom in our correspondence.

With love, Aunt Patricia

Her words puzzled me. I read them again and only grew more curious the harder I tried to decipher them. Why would blame fall upon my father? What did he do back then that would warrant forgiveness from me? He certainly didn’t kill my mother. She had contracted the fever and there was no doubt about my father’s grief. Above all, he and my mother were a love match of the truest kind. Something, sadly, he had tried to rob me of.

A knock on the door brought my mind back to the present.

“Come in,” I answered, nearly absentmindedly. Since I had foregone any night revelries, the evening was still young.

“Are you well?” Genevieve inquired. Her countenance shared little insight into her emotions. She came to me and sat in the seat opposite mine. “I am sorry for all that has happened, Helena. I know we had little time to speak of it after Lucas shared with us his discoveries and the dinner bell’s chime.” She sighed. “I only wanted to confirm what he said. We will not let any harm come to you.”

I never doubted her.

Reaching for her hands, I squeezed them over her lap.

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