Anna moved to the chaise she had chosen. “Subtlety and tenderness are all a compliment needs,” she said over her shoulder.
“I shall keep that in mind.” He smiled, then picked up his book and found a chair at the other end of the room.
“These just arrived, Your Grace,” Mason said, handing Anna two letters.
She smiled when she saw that one was from Catherine, but the smile faded the instant she saw her father’s crest on the other missive. “Thank you, Mason.”
“Shall I bring you some tea, Your Grace?”
“Yes, please.” Her lady’s maid was very attentive, and she greatly enjoyed her company. Anna opened Catherine’s letter first.
My dearest Anna,
It is with great joy that I give you my felicitations. I am not acquainted with the Duke of Ashden but I have heard good things about him. I am also very happy that you decided for yourself. I was not able to do that, and although I do not regret marrying Marcus, I wish I had married for love.
Mama and Papa are too ambitious but I hope they have learned that you have your life to live now. Mama wrote to me. She told me how beautiful your wedding was, and that made me smile. I wish I would have been there to share the occasion with you.
Worry not, my dear sister. I shall visit you soonest. My mourning ends in a few weeks, and I hope to travel to visit my family and friends. We shall have a splendid time together in Hertfordshire this autumn.
With love,
Catherine.
The letter pleased Anna, but her mother’s lies prickled her, although she was not surprised. She set Catherine’s letter down and picked up her mother’s.
My darling Anna,
Your Papa has been filled with remorse since you left. You know he did not mean to act in the manner that he did. He never means it, Anna.
The house is very quiet without you, and my heart is filled with the longing to see you again. We have kept your bedchamber just the way you like it; with your music box and dolls sitting atop the mantle, your drapes open just on one side, and your favorite books on your nightstand.
I think your Papa and I will read the story of Rapunzel tonight before we sleep. You always did love that story. Do you remember the lullaby I used to sing to you and Catherine, and you wished your hair was golden? Oh, what a fond memory that is.
How is your husband? I hope he is well, and I hope your marriage is everything you expected.
Anna, we are truly sorry. We have so much love for you in our hearts, and we will do all that we can to prove that to you.
I hope to receive a response from you soon.
With all the love in our hearts,
Your Mama and Papa.
Anna’s hand crumpled the edges of the sheet as she finished reading. This was the sort of apology she always received from her mother after her father had lashed out at her. They would promise to do better, yet continue to cause her grief. She had her father now to thank for a broken rib and a delay in the consummation of her marriage.
“What utter nonsense!” she muttered to herself, folding the letter and keeping it on a table. She was not going to reply because she was free now. She thought to write to Catherine but her mood had been darkened, and so she decided to do that later.
Sighing, Anna closed her eyes and leaned back on the sofa, hoping for something that would raise her spirits.
Suddenly, a loud shriek came, and she sat up startled. It came again, and she realized it was a cat. Well, a kitten. And it was not a distressed shriek but one of annoyance.
Chapter 14
I cannot think of a name for the cat, but he is the most adorable thing in the world. I wonder if I will be a good mother. I want to be.
Anna rushed to her feet as a footman walked in with a little basket. He bowed and came to set it down at her feet. The loveliest red kitten was staring up at her with bright blue eyes.
It shrieked again, and Anna reached to pick it up, stroking its long fur and cooing. “Oh, do not be annoyed, little one. You are in a new home now, and I will take care of you.”
