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“Catch me, Mama!” Charlotte’s voice rang out through the garden, her laughter bright and unrestrained as she darted between rose bushes, her golden curls bouncing with every step.
Lavinia laughed, her skirts swishing as she pretended to chase her daughter through the winding paths of Westbridge Hall’s gardens. “I’ll catch you, little butterfly! No one escapes the Duchess!”
Edward toddled close behind, a determined expression on his cherubic face. He was only two but possessed a fierce will to keep up with his older sister. He stumbled over a small root and landed with a soft thud. Tears threatened to spill, but before they could, Lavinia was at his side, scooping him into her arms and showering his flushed cheeks with kisses.
“There, there, my brave little man,” she murmured, rocking him gently. “No tears. You are as strong as Papa.”
Edward sniffed, his tiny hands gripping her gown, and Lavinia’s heart melted. Charlotte, having doubled back, observed her brother with a mixture of impatience and affection.
“Edward, you mustn’t fall!” she declared, hands on her hips in a perfect mimicry of her mother. “We’re on an adventure.”
“Yes, an adventure indeed.” Hugh’s voice carried from the garden’s entrance. He strode towards them, his expression a blend of amusement and pride. “I see my family is out conquering kingdoms this morning.”
“Papa!” Charlotte shrieked, abandoning her post and flinging herself into his open arms. Hugh caught her with practiced ease, lifting her high until she squealed with delight.
“Up you go, my fearless lady.” Hugh set her on his shoulders, her laughter ringing louder.
Lavinia watched them, her heart swelling with a contentment she’d once feared would be forever beyond her grasp. Five years ago, her world had been chaos and uncertainty. Now, it was filled with light and laughter, the kind only a family could bring.
Together, they strolled back towards the house. The morning air was crisp, the scent of blooming flowers mingling with the distant hum of bees. As they reached the stone steps, Charlotte wiggled down from Hugh’s shoulders and darted ahead, her gaze locked on the fluttering curtains of the drawing room windows.
“Are we having stories, Mama?” she asked, her eyes wide with anticipation.
“Of course, my darling,” Lavinia replied, guiding Edward’s small hand. “But first, a snack. Adventurers must keep their strength.”
Hugh placed a warm hand on the small of her back as they entered the house. “I’m fairly certain our ‘adventurers’ would rival the most seasoned explorers.”
“Only because they have your spirit and my determination,” Lavinia teased, tilting her head back to meet his gaze.
He chuckled, his eyes softening. “Indeed, Duchess. I couldn’t be prouder.”
In the drawing room, Lavinia settled into a plush chair by the crackling fire. Charlotte climbed onto her lap, while Edward busied himself with a wooden toy horse on the carpet. As Lavinia began weaving a tale of brave knights and clever princesses, Hugh watched from across the room, his heart full. This was their world—simple, beautiful, and complete.
Lavinia’s voice wove magic through the room, her children entranced by every word. Hugh leaned back in his chair, the warmth of the fire reflecting the glow of contentment in his chest. Yet, even as they relished this happiness, shadows of the past had long faded into insignificance.
“Will there be a villain, Mama?” Charlotte asked eagerly, eyes wide with anticipation. “A real one, like the stories?”
Lavinia paused, glancing at Hugh with a knowing smile. “No villain today, my dear. Only heroes finding their way home.”
Charlotte nodded thoughtfully, seeming satisfied, while Edward babbled his approval from the floor. Hugh’s gaze softened. “Speaking of villains who no longer haunt us…”
He trailed off, but Lavinia understood immediately. Mr. Gary—known to the world now as McMaster—was a memory barely worth mentioning. His failed appeals and the weight of his crimes had sealed his fate. Rumors occasionally reached their ears about his failing health, but neither Lavinia nor Hugh gave it more than a passing thought. Their lives were too precious to waste even a moment dwelling on him.
“Do you regret it?” Hugh asked quietly, once the children were distracted by their play.
“Regret what?” Lavinia leaned in closer, her expression curious.
“That he lived long enough to even attempt an appeal,” Hugh clarified, a hint of lingering bitterness in his tone. “That the past couldn’t simply end.”
“No.” Lavinia shook her head firmly. “We have triumphed, Hugh. His fate is of no consequence anymore. He no longer holds power over us. What truly matters is here, in this room.”
He reached for her hand, squeezing gently. “You always did see things more clearly than I.”
She smiled. “I had to, after all.”
Their quiet moment was interrupted by a knock at the door, followed by the cheerful entrance of Amelia and Peter. The couple’s presence was a welcome addition to the lively household. Amelia, now a more serene version of her once brash self, glided in with an elegance tempered by genuine warmth. Beside her, Peter wore his familiar easygoing grin.
“Interrupting, are we?” Amelia teased, her eyes dancing as she took in the scene.
“Always,” Hugh replied, rising to greet them. “But never unwelcome.”
Peter’s eyes immediately sought out the children, who squealed with delight upon seeing their “Uncle Peter.” Charlotte rushed to him, tugging on his hand to pull him into their imaginary world of heroes and daring quests. Amelia, meanwhile, perched beside Lavinia, her gaze fondly trailing her husband.
“It suits you, this life of adventure and chaos,” Lavinia said, noting the way Peter laughed with Charlotte and Edward. “I can’t say I’m surprised.”
Amelia smiled softly. “He has a way of bringing out the best in me. I thought peace would be stifling, but instead, it has given me breath.”
“And you, dear sister-in-law?” Lavinia asked playfully. “No complaints about Westbridge Hall?”
“None.” Amelia leaned closer. “And to think we started as adversaries.”
“Now we are more than sisters,” Lavinia replied, reaching for her hand.
“Yes, family.” Amelia’s voice was warm with sincerity.
The two couples spent the afternoon in conversation, laughter echoing off the walls of Westbridge Hall. Their bond, once tenuous and fraught, had transformed into something strong and beautiful—a testament to how life could change, given time and effort.
The afternoon sun cast golden rays through the windows of Westbridge Hall, highlighting the warmth and liveliness within its walls. As the conversation flowed, the door creaked open, and an unexpected but familiar figure stepped inside—Jonathan Hargrove, flanked by his wife and two children. His entrance brought a cheer from Hugh, who strode forward to clasp his old friend’s hand.
“Jonathan! You could not have timed this better,” Hugh exclaimed, genuine joy lighting his face. “We were just speaking of how much life has changed.”
Jonathan’s smile, lined with the wear of years yet deeply content, spoke volumes. “Indeed, life does have its way of surprising us all.” He looked at Lavinia, bowing respectfully. “Your Grace.”
“Jonathan, you know you are family here,” Lavinia replied warmly, rising to embrace him. “Welcome back.”
As the children were introduced, the Hargrove children were soon swept up into the games of Charlotte and Edward. It did not take long for their laughter to fill the room, blending seamlessly with the joy of their parents. While the children played, Hugh and Jonathan found a quieter corner near the fireplace, their conversation slipping easily into memories and reflections.
“You’ve found peace here, then?” Hugh asked, noting the ease in Jonathan’s posture.
“Yes.” Jonathan’s gaze softened as he watched his wife speak with Lavinia. “A quiet life as a village magistrate suits me. After years of running from shadows, I’ve come to see that true strength lies in stillness.”
Hugh nodded thoughtfully. “You taught me that even the darkest moments pass with time. I owe you more than I can say.”
“You owe me nothing.” Jonathan clapped him on the shoulder. “We each have our paths, Hugh. Yours led to this—a family, love, and a home filled with warmth. I cannot think of a more fitting journey’s end.”
The words lingered, heavy with meaning. Hugh knew Jonathan had seen his share of darkness and had clawed his way back to light. Their bond was forged not merely in friendship but in survival and resilience. And now, surrounded by their loved ones, there was no need for further words.
Meanwhile, Lavinia guided Jonathan’s wife toward the gardens. They passed Fiona and Alfred, who waved cheerfully as they worked in their small parcel of land gifted by Lavinia and Hugh. The cottage nestled within the estate was modest but well-kept, reflecting Fiona and Alfred’s careful stewardship.
“Everything suits them,” Lavinia remarked, smiling as she saw Fiona stoop to examine the ripening vegetables. “It brings joy to know they have found their place.”
“They are as much a part of this estate’s heart as you and Hugh,” Jonathan’s wife replied, admiration in her tone. “It takes great generosity to give as you have.”
“It takes great friends to inspire it,” Lavinia said softly.
Later, as they gathered near the fountain, the scene was one of peace and unity. Hugh lifted Edward onto his shoulders, while Lavinia held Charlotte’s hand, both children squealing with delight as droplets of water sprayed. Fiona and Alfred joined them, their laughter mingling with the rest.
This life, built on love, loyalty, and second chances, was more than Lavinia ever imagined. Here, among family and friends, they had found their truest selves.
***
A few weeks later, Westbridge Hall was alive with activity as family and friends gathered to celebrate Hugh and Lavinia’s wedding anniversary. The grand dining hall, adorned with candles and garlands, shimmered in the golden light. Lavinia moved through the room with grace, ensuring each guest felt welcome and cared for, while Hugh exchanged hearty laughs and handshakes with friends and acquaintances.
Near the center of the room, the Kingsleys, Lavinia’s parents, played with Charlotte and Edward. Lord Kingsley scooped Edward into his arms, eliciting a squeal of delight from the boy. Lavinia paused to watch the scene, her heart softening at the sight of her father’s playful smile. Years ago, their relationship had been fractured; now, it had mended with the bonds of forgiveness and mutual understanding.
“You’ve come a long way,” Hugh whispered, stepping beside her and slipping his hand into hers. “I see the peace in your eyes whenever you look at them.”
“It wasn’t easy,” Lavinia replied quietly, her eyes misty. “But forgiveness, though difficult, is freeing. We’ve all grown.”
As they spoke, Amelia and Peter approached, hand in hand. Amelia’s once sharp demeanor had softened further over the years, and her laugh was light as she recounted a story. She and Lavinia exchanged a knowing glance—the kind of glance only sisters could share—and then joined in a group toast. The glasses clinked, and laughter erupted.
“May happiness always find its way into this hall,” Amelia declared, raising her glass high.
“And may love continue to guide us all,” added Hugh, his gaze never leaving Lavinia.
The guests cheered, and as the celebration continued, Lavinia found a quiet moment to speak with Jonathan. He stood with his wife near the windows, their children resting contentedly in their arms.
“You seem at peace, Jonathan,” she observed, her tone gentle.
“Because I am.” He smiled, lines of contentment etching his face. “The past is no longer a weight. And for that, I thank you and Hugh.”
“Your own strength brought you here,” Lavinia insisted. “But we are grateful to have you in our lives.”
As the evening progressed, the guests were invited to dance. Hugh led Lavinia onto the floor, and as they swayed to the soft strains of the musicians, memories of their journey flashed between them—the fear, the hope, the moments of uncertainty, and the love that had grown and flourished.
“Do you remember when I first stumbled into your life?” Lavinia teased, her eyes sparkling.
“I could never forget.” Hugh’s smile was mischievous. “I recall a very defiant, determined woman who was certain she could escape every obstacle.”
“And she met a stubborn duke who refused to let her go,” Lavinia added, laughter in her voice.
He pulled her closer. “I thank every star that I didn’t.”
They danced until the music faded, and Hugh lifted Lavinia’s hand to his lips. “You are my everything.”
“And you are mine,” Lavinia replied, her voice steady with love.
As the evening wound down, they stepped outside into the garden, where snow had begun to fall, blanketing the world in white. It felt like a promise—a new beginning wrapped in peace. Lavinia leaned into Hugh’s warmth, and together, they watched the snowflakes drift lazily from the sky.
OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 5 FREEBIES FOR YOU!
Grab my new series, "Noble Gentlemen of the Ton", and get 5 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!
Hello, my dear readers! I do hope you enjoyed the story of Lavinia and Hugh. 💖 I would love to know your opinion on this extended epilogue. I can’t wait to read your replies here. Thank you! 💞
Lovely story. Other than Gary, all other characters were nice. Even Amelia, bitchy as she was, turned a leaf and became a nice sister. The story of the fake Gary was the only surprise. The rest was predictable. Nice clean romance with a happy ending.
When a reader can pick up one of my books and forget their troubles for a while, it’s mission accomplished, Madhu. And I’m happy this was the case for you too! 💖
I liked the story very much. The characters were all nice, except for Gary and for a while Amelia. The respect shown by Hugh to his servants is a good moral lesson, respect earns respect. Peter must have seen more in Amelia than anyone else did. Please keep writing great books.
Thank you, Shirley, that’s such a sweet thing to say! I needed to hear this today! For as long as people want to read my books, I’ll keep writing!
Bridget, I picked up this book and couldn’t put it down. I love that you write with love and respect. You always touch my heart and make the world a bit better after reading one of your books! Keep writing and I will keep reading your books! Thank you for it all!
Oh Kay, I am floored! That’s such a lovely comment! My world brightens up with readers like you! Thank you so very very much!