Surely, that would show me if there is even a chance that I might ever be with her.
“Excuse me, Your Grace.” A footman stood at the door.
“Please come in,” Lothar said.
“The matchmaker has sent word that you are expected for tea at the Castwell residence next month, Your Grace,” the footman announced.
“When?” Lothar asked.
“On the 5that six PM, Your Grace,” The footman replied. “Next month, Your Grace.”
Lothar thanked him, and the footman left.
I cannot make a poor impression on the Castwells. Henny will have to understand that our tea will be a short one.Lothar decided to go for a ride on one of the horses. It would help clear his head.
Lothar made his way from the main house to the stables that lay about a ten- or fifteen-minute walk away. His long legs got him there in six minutes. The groomsman immediately saddled a horse for him upon his arrival. These were no average type of horse. They stood six feet tall with a strong, muscular build. They had been bred to plough fields. Their mighty bodies were able to pull massive weights and travel long distances quickly.
Lothar had fallen in love with the breed a few years ago. He had seen them when a passing gentleman had stopped in town. Lothar had inquired about the horses, and the gentlemanhad shown him to the breeders. Though they were often used plow the land, Lothar liked them for riding since he felt they could better carry his large frame.
Lothar went to the horse that was now ready to ride and scratched behind the horse’s ears down its neck, before he mounted and rode away.
Lothar felt more at ease the moment the horse started to gallop away. He was not planning on going anywhere specific and instead let the horse run free. He had the reins just in case there was an obstacle the horse could not see.
It felt as though he had only been out a short while, yet when Lothar looked at the sky, he could see that the blue sky was starting to turn orange and pink. The sun started to make its journey to lay between the rolling hills. Lothar felt more prepared for what tomorrow could bring. He still felt his nerves fray at the thought of having to meet Mr. Castwell. More than anything, Lothar realized, he wanted a chance with Gemma.
Chapter 3
“Check,” Gemma said, giving her grandfather a triumphant smile.
“One more, than we will see, young lady,” Her grandfather replied with a bright smile.
“Gemma, if you have a moment, your father and I would like your help,” Margaret said.
“Of course, mother. Allow me to win one more game, and then I will be with you,” Gemma replied with a smile.
“Thank you, dear. I think you should go see your father first. He needs your advice on the new plot he’s acquired,” Margaret suggested.
“You are most welcome. What did you need help with Mother?” Gemma asked.
“I need help with the winter attire. As you know, the days are already so much shorter.” Margaret replied.
Gemma looked at her grandfather, who watched Margaret and only spoke when she had left the room.
“So, is there ever a chance that you might grace me with a great grandchild one day?” He asked.
“Grandpapa, you have many children who can bear your great grandchildren. I am happy just the way I am,” Gemma said gently. She knew he only asked since he wanted her to be happy and settled.
“That is rather a pity. I think that you would make a great wife to the right man and a wonderful mother,” Her grandfather replied.
Her mind went to Lothar. She could not forget their short encounter and wondered if there would be a chance for her to see him again.
His heart belongs to another.Her mind yelled over her heart. Gemma considered letting her grandfather win and then thought better of it. He would know he had not won. He had caught her out before when she had previously tried to soothe his pride. She won the game and declined another before going to see her father.
She knew she might find him looking over the new plot of land. She decided to walk there rather than ride with one of the horses. As much as she loved to ride, it seemed unnecessary to do so. Her father waved when he saw her coming and walked to her to greet her.
“Morning!” He said as he came over to Gemma and embraced her.
“How are you, Father? How are things going here?” Gemma asked.
