Frances nodded.
“But I did not mean to interrupt you. Please continue. I find your story…” Christopher paused for a moment. “fascinating.”
He listened intently, his eyes fixed on her. She liked how he made her feel—like what she was saying truly mattered.
“Lydia and I exchanged letters frequently. She would tell me all about the boys and their lives. I remember the day Lydia met Peter. It was an accident, really. She was in town, running errands, and they crossed paths. It was love at first sight for both of them.”
Christopher nodded for her to continue. “You know the story much better than me. I did not know much about my brother’s life. So I want to hear everything.”
Frances’s eyes softened at the memory. “Peter was the one who proposed they elope and live the life they wanted, away from the judgment of the ton. I helped her leave the manor without being seen. It was risky, but they were determined to be together.”
Christopher leaned forward, clearly intrigued. “You were very brave to help them like that.”
Frances smiled faintly. “It didn’t feel like bravery at the time. It felt like helping a friend in need. The year the twins were born, my parents were preoccupied with finding a match for my sister Esther, as she was close to spinsterhood. When I announced I would be visiting a friend in the countryside, they didn’t pay much attention. That’s how I became the twins’ godmother.”
Christopher’s expression softened as he absorbed her words. “You must have been a great comfort to Lydia.”
“I tried to be. Losing her was incredibly hard. But knowing I could be here for her boys now means everything to me.”
Christopher reached out and gently took her hand. “You’ve done more for them than I could have imagined. They trust you because you truly care for them, and they can feel that.”
Frances felt a warmth spread through her at his words. “Thank you, Your Grace. That means a lot to me.”
Christopher’s gaze held hers, his thumb gently stroking her knuckles. “You did it again.”
She blushed at his words, all too aware of how his fingers had felt on her skin, even if for a brief moment.
“Christopher,” she corrected herself, for the umpteenth time.
* * *
It was not every day that Christopher was shocked by something. He had lived a full life, and it took a lot to get him to react like he currently was.
It was her boldness that had caught him off-guard.
He never expected such a shy lady to be so courageous and determined. He realized that when it came to helping others, Frances would stop at nothing. She had demonstrated the same resolve when he first mentioned their marriage.
“Did I say something?” Frances asked, worry lacing her tone. He had been quiet for too long, it seemed.
“No, no.” He straightened up quickly. “I was just… never mind.” He shook his head.
He could see that Frances was curious, but she did not push. He liked that about her. Too many people did not know when to stop.
“I am sure Lydia would have been very proud of you if she were here.” The words were earnest and rolled right off his tongue.
She looked away. “I have some questions for you, if you do not mind.”
“Pray tell.” Christopher leaned forward, curious.
“How is it that you’re not close to the twins?” Frances asked. “I do not mean to pry, but it is just a bit odd, considering you are their uncle by blood.”
Christopher’s expression grew somber. “Ah, that is a bit of a long story.”
“With Mrs. Bellum gone, and the children sleeping, I suppose we have some time…”
“Well, in that case…” Christopher stood up to retrieve a bottle of wine. He popped the cork and then poured each of them a glass. “I hope that you enjoy some red wine?”
She smiled. “I prefer white, but I shall make an exception on this day.”
