He did not marry Penelope for himself, only for Odette.
But then his second thought was different. Yes, perhaps he could live without her, but it would not be a worthwhile life.
In fact, the terrible truth beneath these days full of misey was that that he missed her.
Plain and simple. He had missed even her stubbornness, and the way that she was the only person to dare challenge him.
“You shall get over it,” he told himself. Naturally, time would heal all things. And he would get over this as well.
But a nagging feeling in the back of his head would not shut up. Had he made the worst decision of his life by asking Penelope to leave?
And if he decided to change his mind and try to get her back now, would she even give him another chance?
CHAPTER 25
“Penelope?”
Isadora’s voice rang out as the butler stepped aside to let Penelope into the entry hall. “Good heavens, what are you doing here?”
Isaodora was still rubbing her eyes, as if to confirm what she was seeing was not a figment of her imagination. Penelope could hardly blame her, she had caught her at an odd hour and come over without prior announcement.
Penelope managed to plaster on a weak smile as her sister hurried down the staircase.
“Nice to see you, sister.”
Isadora reached the bottom step, frowning with concern as she took in Penelope’s pale face.
“I do not mean to question you so much,” Isadora’s voice was thick with worry. “I mean, surely you could have written before arriving but you are absolutely welcome any time but… why… did something happen? Has the duke come with you as well?”
Penelope knew that Isadora was bursting with curiosity, but did not wish to overwhelm Penelope. She gave a small shake of the head.
“Alexander is not with me.” Penelope admitted, glancing away. “I couldn’t write ahead.”
Isadora stepped closer, her brow creasing.
“So, how did you come here then?”
“Alexander arranged a carriage for me,” she replied. “I…”
“Penelope,” Isadora took her sister’s hands into her own. “You are trembling as you speak, and I am beginning to grow very concerned.”
“I just need a place to stay for a few days,” Penelope said quickly. “Alexander and I… we have decided to take some time apart for the time being.”
Isadora gasped. “Did you two fight?”
“I would not call it so much of a fight,” Penelope sighed. “More so, a shift in priorities.”
“But I am not sure if I understand,” Isadora continued. “I met you just days ago and things between the two of you were fine.”
“I can’t talk about it right now.” Penelope’s voice cracked despite her effort to sound composed. “I only need to rest my mind, and perhaps some company from you.”
Isadora’s expression softened.
“Oh, darling.” She drew her sister into a warm embrace, rubbing her back gently. “You don’t have to explain anything if you’re not ready.”
“Thank you,” Penelope clung to her tightly, eyes closing as exhaustion washed over her. Suddenly, it felt as though she was a young girl again, reminded of all the times that Isadora had looked after her when she needed her to.
“Come upstairs,” Isadora murmured. “We’ll get you settled. You can rest. Everything else can wait.”
