An Unlikely Countess (Those Very Bad Fairbanks Book 13) by Alyssa Clarke

Author:Alyssa Clarke [Clarke, Alyssa]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Darkan Press Inc.
Published: 2024-08-23T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 10

Julia felt stares upon her face before she heard the whispers.

“Miss Fairbanks is like a princess,” an awed, small voice said. “I wish papa woke us when they arrived last night!”

“She is more beautiful than a princess,” another voice refuted. “Should we hurry and sneak away before Mrs. Tilby notices we are missing from the schoolroom?”

“I do not know. I want to wake her, but papa says we must allow Miss Fairbanks to sleep as she has had a h … h … I cannot recall the word.”

“Harrowing,” the other sister supplied.

“Yes, a harrowing time these last few days.”

“What do you think papa meant?”

“Perhaps she ate too many candies like we did that time and we got ill.”

Julia tried her best not to chuckle as she listened to the soft, earnest voices. After she entered the manor last night, exhaustion had overwhelmed her so she had refused a dinner tray, followed the housekeeper to a bedchamber, stripped off her clothes, and promptly fell asleep. Now, as the whispers continued, she struggled to keep a smile from her lips, charmed by the innocence and curiosity of the children. They already reminded her of her darling niece, Lily.

Slowly, Julia allowed her eyes to flutter open, pretending to wake naturally. Two small figures stood at the foot of the bed, their wide, curious eyes fixed on her.

“Hullo,” Julia said softly, a smile tugging at her lips.

The girls gasped, their eyes widening further in surprise and delight. They were remarkably like their father, with the same striking silver eyes that gleamed with intelligence and mischief. However, unlike Rafe’s dark hair, theirs was a soft, golden blonde, neatly tied back with ribbons that matched the pale blue of their dresses. The dresses themselves were charming—simple yet elegant, with lace trimming the collars and hems. The girls vibrated; their excitement barely contained.

“You must be Lady Grace and Lady Emma,” Julia said, her smile widening. “You are the ones who look like princesses.”

The girls giggled in unison. They beamed at her, clearly thrilled by the notion, their youthful energy filling the room with warmth.

“We were waiting for you to wake up,” Grace said, her voice a mixture of shyness and excitement.

“So we could watch you marry papa!” Emma added, her eyes shining with anticipation. “But Mrs. Tilby said we have to do our studies until you’re ready.”

Julia chuckled softly, charmed by their enthusiasm. Mrs. Tilby sounded strict. Conscious she was naked beneath the coverlets, Julia held it against her and sat up in bed. “I promise I won’t keep you waiting long,” she said, reaching out to gently touch their hands. “I will hurry with my preparations and meet you both in a few minutes.”

The girls exchanged delighted looks before dashing from the room, their laughter trailing behind them like a melody. Julia watched them go, her heart swelling with warmth. They were utterly endearing, and the thought of becoming a part of their lives filled her with a sense of both responsibility and joy.

Julia slipped from the bed and rang the bell for a servant.

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