Her emotions were as finicky as a summer storm churning over the sea. Sobs racked her body this morning with regret for the mess she had made of things. Then anger rode in and replaced the sorrow. She set her lips in a tight line and straightened her back as she remembered how the duke abandoned her. She would not shed another tear over the blackguard. Now with her resolve firmly in place, she found comfort in the fact she would soon be on a different continent.
Her hand glided along the cool mahogany rail as she descended the stairs, with thoughts of what else must be done swirling through her mind.
Grace’s butler stood at the foot of the grand staircase, his chin elevated. “Lady Amelia, Lady Sarah is awaiting you in the drawing room.” His voice echoed through the large foyer.
Amelia grinned, truly happy at the prospect of spending her last day in London with her dearest friend. “Thank you.”
He bowed gracefully, his gray hair swaying and a stately grin fixed upon his mouth before he turned to amble away.
Amelia quickened her pace, nearly running down the remaining stairs as she clutched her skirts so she would not trip. She had much to tell Sarah, so many things to discuss and share with her. Sarah knew nothing of her impending departure, nor the fact she had decided not to marry. Reaching the bottom of the stairs, she released her skirts and took a moment to smooth them before entering the drawing room.
“Lady Sarah, I am so pleased to see you.” She went to Sarah and placed a kiss on one cheek before pulling her into a close embrace.
Sarah returned Amelia’s hug before stepping away. “My, you act as though you were gone for years. All the same, I am glad to see you, and relieved as well. I became frightened when you ran off and concerned when her grace told me the Duke of Goldstone was escorting you to Leeds.”
Amelia’s heart roiled at the reminder of her time with Richard as a tidal wave of regret swept through her. She forced her focus back to Lady Sarah. “I have so much to tell you. Let us sit?” Amelia motioned toward the settee near the hearth.
Sarah walked toward it. “Of course, and then you must tell me everything.”
Amelia began her story as soon as they settled on the settee, telling Sarah everything just the way she had told it to Grace, but then continued on to share the rest of her journey. Sarah listened to every word, finding the part about the cottage fire and the peasant woman to be the most riveting. She stifled a gasp with one gloved hand as Amelia spoke of wearing a peasant’s gown. Sarah asked a few questions, but mostly just smiled and nodded as Amelia recited the tale. Naturally, she omitted all of the parts that included inappropriate and scandalous behaviors between Richard and herself.
“Fancy that, my being forced to travel three days with Lord Shillington and his sister.” Amelia waved her fan.
“I imagine nary a second proved dull,” Sarah replied, before bursting into a fit of mirth. “It has been my experience that whenever Lord Shillington is involved, there is something to talk about.”
“Indeed, but I have already told you everything. Truly, knocking over the glass of water at the inn proved to be the worst of it. Now, do let us talk of something else. I have more exciting news to share.”
Sarah folded her hands on her lap and leaned forward. “I cannot imagine what could possibly top your adventure. Do tell.”
Amelia inhaled a deep steadying breath as she met Sarah’s gaze. “I have decided to move to America and will depart shortly after sunrise tomorrow.” Sarah frowned, then smirked and frowned again before she stood up, a look of utter confusion upon her face. “I haven’t the right words. I am relieved the folly has met its end, but do not wish to see you go.” She paced the length of the room, her skirts trailing behind her. “Maybe you should be honest with Mr. Lewis. Share the reasons you wish to remain in London with him. Perhaps he would agree to let you stay on with the duchess.”
“No, you do not understand. It is not a rash decision. I have thought about it and decided America is not the worst place for me to be.”
Sarah turned to Amelia, bewilderment plainly marked her face. “What could be worse than leaving England?”
Amelia waved her hand through the air for emphasis as she spoke. “A loveless marriage, being a wife to some lord I hardly like, or worse, one who does not care for me.” She put on a brave face and brought her hands to rest in her lap.
Lady Sarah arranged herself back against the cushion of her previously abandoned seat. “Marriage for love is so rare. I think it is more often the case for love to follow the vows. It certainly could be the case for you.” Sarah smiled encouragingly.
Amelia locked gazes with Sarah before she enunciated her words. “I am not willing to take the risk. I know love is possible and have decided I will not settle for less.” She glanced at the window. “Honestly, I am a titled and wealthy woman in my own right. I have no need of a husband.”
“Very well, but are you certain two years in America is what you want?”
Amelia directed her attention back to her friend. “No, but it is inarguably my fate.” She grinned, hoping to reassure Sarah that all would be fine.
“I can see your mind is made up, but do not understand the reason for your change of heart. When you ran off you were willing to do anything to stay in England. There must be something you have not shared with me.” Sarah glanced down at her hands, then looked back at Amelia.
Amelia offered a smile. “It was merely all the time I spent in thought, nothing more.” She glanced at the window, needing a distraction. “The day is splendid. Would you care to take a stroll in the garden?” Perhaps a change of scenery would also correct the direction of their conversation. Much more of the present chat and she would be telling Lady Sarah all about her time with the duke. Recounting how she had fallen in love and gotten her heart broken. The blasted indecent blackguard of a man--if she could see him now, she would most thoroughly maim him.
“I am afraid I must decline. Mother is expecting me home, so I really must be going.” Sarah stood. “She’s hosting a luncheon in honor of my brother’s engagement. I cannot believe he proposed without a word to me.” She grimaced.
“I am sure it came as quite a surprise.” Amelia’s cheeks warmed at the reminder as she stood. “Promise to write me often?”
“Of course, and you must return to England as soon as you can.” Sarah reached for her hand and squeezed it gently. “Nothing will be the same once you are gone.”
Amelia smiled at her closest friend as she released her hand. “I shall set sail on the very day I turn one-and-twenty.”
“Should I not see you again before you depart, know I will be thinking about you and wishing you safe travels.” Sarah turned and took a few hesitant steps toward the exit.
