A Baron’s Pretended Courtship – Extended Epilogue

---

OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!

Grab my new series, "Noble Gentlemen of the Ton", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!

---

Three years had woven deeper threads of love and harmony into the lives of Lydia and Stephen Rothwell, threads that were now visible to all who knew them. On a crisp, sunny afternoon, the Rothwell residence buzzed with an energy that was both nervous and excited, much like the fluttering heart of Lydia herself. The grand drawing room, with its high ceilings and windows that let in the golden light of late summer, had been transformed into a makeshift concert hall, chairs arranged in neat rows facing the grand piano that stood proudly at one end.

Lydia, her belly rounded with the promise of new life, moved gracefully among the musicians and family members, her face alight with joy. Her mother, Keira, stood by the piano, her fingers lightly touching the keys as if to reassure herself that they were real. They were preparing for a recital, a special event organized by Lydia and Stephen, not just to showcase Lydia’s burgeoning talent but also to celebrate the music that had always been a binding force in their family.

Donald, their nearly two-year-old son, was a bundle of energy, his laughter echoing through the room as he darted between the legs of adults, his curls bouncing with each step. Lydia watched him with a fond smile, her heart swelling with love for the little boy who had brought so much joy into their lives.

“Lydia, dear, do you think this piece is too ambitious?” Keira asked, her voice tinged with the nervous excitement of a performer about to step onto the stage.

Lydia approached her mother, taking her hands in her own. “Mother, you’ve played pieces far more challenging with effortless grace. Tonight, we play not just for our guests, but for ourselves. Let’s enjoy it, shall we?” Lydia’s reassurance seemed to calm Keira, who nodded, a smile breaking through her nerves.

Stephen watched from the doorway, his pride in his family evident in his gaze. He had always supported Lydia’s passion for music, and seeing her now, radiant and full of life, he knew that their decision to organize this recital was yet another testament to their shared belief in following one’s heart.

The guests began to arrive one by one, a mix of close friends, family, and a few patrons of the arts who had taken an interest in Lydia’s music. Stephen greeted each one, his charm and ease making everyone feel welcome. As the room filled, Lydia took a moment to step aside, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. She felt a hand on her shoulder and opened her eyes to find Stephen there, his smile like a beacon of strength.

“Ready, my love?” he asked, his voice low and reassuring.

Lydia nodded, her hand resting on her belly for a moment before she took Stephen’s hand. “With you by my side, always.”

By the soft glow of candlelight, Lydia and her mother took their places. The room fell silent, the anticipation palpable. Lydia looked out at the faces before her, her heart full. This recital was more than a performance; it was a celebration of love, family, and the music that connected them all.

With a nod to her mother, Lydia began to play, the notes floating through the air, weaving a tapestry of sound that held every listener in its spell.

♥

As the final notes of the duet lingered in the air, the audience erupted into applause, their admiration not just for the performance, but for the journey Lydia had undertaken since her marriage. Ever since she had become Mrs. Rothwell, Lydia’s life had been a melody of its own, filled with crescendos of joy and the soft pauses of introspection. Her music, once a personal solace, had blossomed into a profession that not only fulfilled her but also brought beauty to the lives of those around her. With Stephen’s unwavering support, she had grown from a talented amateur to a celebrated performer, her concerts eagerly anticipated by an ever-growing circle of music lovers.

The recital was proof of this remarkable journey. Lydia, radiant and composed, acknowledged the applause with a graceful bow, her eyes finding Stephen’s in the crowd. His pride in her achievements was palpable, a silent yet powerful testament to the strength of their partnership.

In the audience, Jasmine, now Lydia’s sister-in-law, clapped enthusiastically, her own belly showing the early signs of pregnancy. The years had softened the edges of their relationship, transforming rivalry into a deep and abiding friendship. Beside her, Alexander, her husband, shared a look of mutual respect and affection with Stephen. Their family ties, once tested, were now unbreakable, strengthened by love and mutual support.

Louise, too, was among the audience, her eyes misty with emotion. The rumors of her courtship with a viscount had been the subject of much speculation, but Louise had maintained a dignified silence, choosing to let the relationship unfold away from the prying eyes of society. Yet, those close to her could see the happiness that this new love brought to her life, a second spring that bloomed with unexpected vibrancy.

After the performance, as the guests mingled and congratulated the performers, Lydia felt a warmth that went beyond the glow of success. Her family, both by blood and by marriage, surrounded her, each relationship a unique melody that contributed to the symphony of her life.

Jasmine approached, her embrace warm and genuine. “Lydia, that was truly magnificent. I can hardly wait for my child to hear you play.”

Lydia smiled, placing a hand on Jasmine’s belly. “And I can’t wait to teach another little one the joys of music.”

Their conversation was a blend of laughter and shared dreams, a far cry from the days of misunderstandings and jealousy. It was clear that both women had found their paths, their lives intertwined not just by familial bonds but by genuine affection.

Even Louise, usually so reserved, couldn’t hide her joy. “My dear, your music moves the soul. And who knows?” she teased, a twinkle in her eye, “perhaps I’ll have my own personal concert soon, if my viscount has his way.”

The laughter that followed was light and full of hope, a reflection of the happiness that had settled over Lydia’s life. Her music had become a bridge, connecting her to her loved ones in ways she had never imagined.

Amidst the laughter and light-hearted conversations, Lydia’s attention was caught by a familiar figure standing somewhat apart from the rest of the guests. It was Abigail, her presence unexpected yet not unwelcome. Lydia excused herself and approached her, the memories of past grievances feeling distant and faded, like old letters worn from too much handling.

“Abigail,” Lydia greeted, her voice carrying a warmth that surprised even her. “I didn’t expect to see you here tonight.”

Abigail turned, her face softening at Lydia’s approach. “I heard about the recital. I hope you don’t mind my coming. I wanted to… to see how you were, and to hear your music.”

The sincerity in Abigail’s eyes was unmistakable, and Lydia found herself nodding, an implicit forgiveness in the gesture. “I’m glad you came. The music… it’s for everyone who finds joy in it.”

They stood in silence for a moment, the bustle of the gathering around them a distant murmur. Then, Abigail spoke, her voice low and tinged with a vulnerability Lydia had never seen in her before.

“I did love Stephen, you know. But even then, I knew his heart belonged to someone else. I couldn’t compete with that, nor did I want to continue trying to.” Abigail’s gaze was steady, her admission not seeking sympathy but offering a candid clarity.

Lydia’s response was gentle, a reflection of the peace she felt in her own heart. “Stephen and I… we’ve found our way through many trials. Your honesty means a lot, Abigail. I hope you find the happiness you deserve.”

Abigail smiled, a genuine smile that reached her eyes. “I’m on my way there, I think. And seeing you both together, so happy… it’s comforting, in a way. I wish you all the best, Lydia. Truly.”

The conversation, brief as it was, felt like the closing of a chapter long left open. As Abigail excused herself, Lydia watched her go, feeling an unexpected sense of camaraderie with the woman she had once viewed as a rival.

Turning back to the celebration, Lydia felt Stephen’s presence before she saw him, his hand finding hers in the crowd. They shared a look, a silent communication honed over years of marriage, filled with love and understanding.

“Are you alright?” he asked, his eyes searching hers for any sign of distress.

Lydia squeezed his hand, her heart full. “I am. Abigail was here. We spoke, and it was… good, Stephen. It was healing.”

Stephen nodded, his relief evident. “I’m glad, Lydia. Tonight is about moving forward, about the music and love that binds us all.”

As they rejoined the celebration, Lydia felt a profound sense of gratitude for the life they had built together, for the love that had sustained them through challenges and brought them to this moment of joy and unity.

♥

The evening wore on, and the air filled with the soft murmur of conversations and the occasional clink of glasses. Stephen gently guided Lydia away from the gathering. They found themselves in the quiet of the garden, where the moon cast a silvery glow over the blooms that bordered the path. The noise of the celebration became a distant echo, replaced by the tranquil sounds of the night.

Stephen stopped and faced Lydia, taking both her hands in his. The anticipation in his eyes made Lydia’s heart beat faster, a fluttering that seemed to resonate with the gentle night breeze.

“Lydia, my love, before the night ends, I have something for you.” His voice was soft, yet carried an undercurrent of excitement. From his pocket, he produced a small, velvet box, which he opened to reveal a delicate gold necklace, the pendant a series of musical notes that seemed to dance in the moonlight.

Lydia gasped, her eyes sparkling as she took in the beauty of the gift. “Stephen, it’s… it’s exquisite.”

“It’s you, Lydia. This necklace, these notes, they’re a part of the music that you bring into our lives every day.” Stephen’s words were more than a compliment; they were an acknowledgment of her passion, her talent, and the harmony she had woven into the fabric of their family.

With gentle hands, Stephen fastened the necklace around Lydia’s neck, his fingers brushing the nape of her skin, sending a shiver down her spine. As he stepped back, his gaze never leaving hers, Lydia felt the weight of the moment, the profound love and commitment that it symbolized.

“Stephen, I don’t know what to say. Thank you, for believing in me, for supporting my music, for being the most wonderful partner and father. I love you, more than words can express.”

Stephen smiled, his eyes reflecting the depth of his own feelings. “And I love you, Lydia. With every note you play, with every breath you take. You’ve given me a happiness I never thought possible.”

They stood in silence, the bond between them a tangible force that needed no words. The necklace, a symbol of their journey together, glinted softly in the moonlight, a testament to their shared past and the promise of all the tomorrows yet to come.

Eventually, they turned and walked back towards the house, their steps synchronized, their hands intertwined. The sounds of the celebration welcomed them back, a reminder of the love and support that surrounded them.

As they reentered the warmth and light of the drawing room, Lydia felt a surge of happiness. This night, this recital, had been a celebration of many things: of music, of family, of love. But most of all, it was a celebration of them, of Lydia and Stephen, and the beautiful life they were building together. Their love story, like the music they both cherished, would continue to unfold in beautiful and unexpected ways, each note a reminder of the joy and fulfillment they found in each other’s arms…

Readers who read this book also liked

---

OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!

Grab my new series, "Noble Gentlemen of the Ton", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!

---