This has to be it, yes? There’s no other reason for this feeling. None.
She shook her head, trying to dismiss the thoughts, but they clung to her like the frost on the windows. She sighed as she stopped at the library door, desperate to begin her escape from the turmoil of her emotions, if only for a little while.
Cecilia stepped into the library, the warmth of the room enveloping her, but her heart raced as she sensed a presence. A shadowy figure sat within, and curiosity mingled with apprehension as she stepped forward.
Oh.
Her breath caught in her throat as she recognized Alistair instantly, his presence both commanding and disarming. Beside him, was a small table with wine, and on his right, Cerberus, the loyal hound, sprang to life, barking excitedly and wagging his large tail, instantly breaking the tension in the air.
Cecilia opened her mouth but found herself momentarily speechless. Alistair looked different, yet undeniably striking. His hair, usually neatly styled, was ruffled and tousled, giving him an air of rugged charm that was hard to ignore.
She could see the shoulder bandages peeking from beneath his slightly unbuttoned shirt and rolled up sleeves, a stark reminder of his recent fall from the horse. The sight of him in this vulnerable state stirred something deep within her and she swallowed slightly.
Despite the disheveled appearance, Alistair’s features remained captivating. His jawline was sharp, and even with the faint lines of discomfort etched on his brow, there remained an undeniable allure in his deep-set eyes.
Cecilia had never seen him like this before—raw and unguarded. It was as if the barriers he usually maintained had slipped away. She felt drawn in as he shifted slightly in his chair, the bottle beside him glinting in the low light.
He’s just too… perfect.
How can one man be so handsome?
As Cerberus continued to bark joyfully, Cecilia cleared her throat, her heart fluttering as she stepped closer.
“Your Grace…”
“What are you doing here, Miss Everton?” Alistair’s voice cut through the night, curiosity lacing his tone. His dark hair fell just above his eyes, and the way he furrowed his brow made him look more contemplative than accusatory, which was a surprise.
“I was… I was but walking about,” she stammered, her cheeks flushing under his gaze. The warmth spread across her face, and she quickly looked down, hoping the shadows would hide her embarrassment.
Alistair’s piercing blue eyes seemed to scrutinize her, and she felt exposed, as though he could see right through her facade. “Walking about at night?” he raised an eyebrow, skepticism creeping into his voice.
Oh, of all things to say, Cecilia!
“I mean, I couldn’t sleep,” she blurted out, the words tumbling from her lips in a rush. “So, I came to the library. It calms me down to read sometimes.” The admission hung in the air, and she felt a mix of relief and vulnerability. “I- I apologize, Your Grace, for intruding, or disturbing. I had not expected to find anyone here as well.”
Alistair’s silence was deafening, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that he was dissecting her every word. She braced for the chastisement, her eyes to the floor.
“Reading at night? You must really love books,” at last, his voice cut through the air, and as she looked up, she saw the lightilluminating his strong jawline and the slight smirk that played on his lips.
“I do,” she replied tensely, unsure how he was planning this as an attack.
“But I must know, do you always sneak around at night, or is this a special occasion?” Alistair’s voice was light, teasing even, which unnerved Cecilia.
There it is. He’s accusing me.
Or is he not?
His tone… and those eyes…
Cecilia swallowed, “No, of course not, Your Grace.”
A silence followed. Then finally, after what felt like an eternity, Alistair nodded slowly, a gesture that felt both reassuring and disconcerting. “You should be careful still. The library can be a lonely place at night. I believe my estate is safe, yet you can never be too certain.”
Cecilia’s eyes widened.
Is he concerned about me?
“Yes, thank you, Your Grace.” She stood awkwardly, unsure what her next steps were to be.
