“And to you, Edythe,” Isabelle said, her smile a benediction, “know that love, once true, never fades. It lives within the heart. It is a song that never ends.”
With a final, lingering glance at Cavendish Hall, Alistair and Isabelle walked into the night as the clock in the ballroom stuck midnight, the witching hour. “Remember us not for the curse that bound us,” they called out in unison, “but for the love that freed us all. Love endures. Love transcends. Love is the key to all locks.
James drew Edythe close, their bond strengthened by the quest they faced. “Our journey together is just beginning,” he whispered, his words a vow for the future.
Hand in hand, they returned to the manor, the last notes of the music box’s melody a gentle farewell. Edythe and James knew their love, like the melody, would endure, a constant rhythm to guide them through whatever lay ahead.
Epilogue
December 1, 1850
Edythe’s heart flutteredwith anticipation at the sight of James, his presence at the sitting room door a delightful breach of tradition. “James, what are you doing here? You’re not supposed to see me before the wedding,” she gently teased, the soft fabric of her gown rustling as she moved closer to the threshold.
“Come quick. There is something here for you.” There was a touch of mischief in his voice.
Her curiosity piqued, Edythe stepped through the door and found James staring at the tapestry. “I still find it startling that the barren spot amidst the roses is not vibrant with pink petals.” He turned to Edythe. “The garden is renewed as is Cavendish Hall. But that is not why I called you out of hiding.”
He pointed to an elegantly penned note resting on the desk. Beside it, her locket lay open.
“Did you open it? I couldn’t figure out how.” Edythe looked at James, a bit confused.
“The secret is known only to the one who left it for you. Alas, it wasn’t me,” James said, his grin widening.
Edythe read the inscription aloud. “In love, find strength. In union, find peace, and my heart’s song will play forever.”
The realization of Alistair and Isabelle’s blessing wrapped her in warmth. James, moved by the gravity of the moment,drew her into his embrace. “You are beautiful,” he whispered, his words a simple truth.
Edythe’s attention returned to the note, recognizing Alistair’s distinctive script.“The music box, with its own ancient wisdom, selected‘My Heart’s Song’for you and James. It is a melody that echoes your legacy, a tune that will resonate through the ages.
As the past and future converged, James leaned in, his lips meeting Edythe’s in a kiss that was a delicate harmony of all their yesterdays and tomorrows. It was soft and slow, a tender affirmation of their journey, their struggles, and their love. As they parted, the promise of forever lingered between them, an unbreakable bond sealed with the gentlest touch.
“My heart’s songs,” Edythe murmured, her eyes shining with tears of joy.
“May it play on from this day until our last,” James affirmed, sealing his pledge with a kiss.
The End
Additional Dragonblade books by Author Ruth A. Casie
The Ladies of Sommer-by-the-Sea Series
The Lady and Her Quill (Book1)
The Lady and the Spy (Book2)
The Lady and Her Duke (Book3)
The Duke’s Lost Love (Novella)
Pirates of Britannia Series
Donald
Hugh
Graham
The Pirate’s Jewel
