“I don’t believe you’re so flippant not to realise what pain your father inflicted upon us. Make a choice.” Isabella let her words sink in. Anthony and the Dowager had left their hiding place as well, and they were standing behind her.
Sophia wiped her cheek so quickly Isabella wasn’t sure there had been a tear at all.
Sophia bowed her head. “You’re right, Your Grace. I’ll do my best to convince Father to return Maiden Hill to your family.”
She didn’t dare show her happiness but remained composed, as the Dowager would do, fighting a smile threatening to break on her lips. “Thank you.”
Sophia gazed around the garden, looking like a simple young woman. “This garden is beautiful, a truly magical place. Patrick chose well.”
He hadn’t, but never mind.
“Thank you, Sophia,” Anthony said.
Sophia nodded. “Patrick, I wish you well.”
Patrick bowed and didn’t beg her to stay.
After another graceful bow of her head, Sophia left. The moment Sophia disappeared up the stairs, Isabella let out a whoop.
Anthony hugged her. Patrick smiled although a hint of sadness lingered on his face. The Dowager showed the biggest, happiest smile Isabella had ever seen.
Anthony crushed his brother in a tight hug. “Well done, Patrick.”
Patrick didn’t react with the enthusiasm she would expect. He stared at his hands covered in cuts and bruises as if seeing them for the first time. The hours of manual work had taken their toll on him.
“I haven’t done anything well,” Patrick said. “I hope one day you’ll tell me that again when I deserve it.”
The Dowager hugged Isabella. “Wonderful. The way you held yourself together while confronting Sophia was wonderful.”
She laughed, but the laugh turned into a quick sob. “I’m so happy I might cry.”
“Absolutely not.” The Dowager wiped Isabella’s eyes with a silk handkerchief. “You’re a duchess.”
