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Cassius’s family sounded lovely.

How wonderful it must’ve been to grow up surrounded by siblings and with loving parents.

Another half hour passed as he chatted about his sister, six brothers, the duke and duchess, and his grandmother.

“She tricked us all into coming home for Christmas that year.” He shook his head. “We were all convinced something ghastly had occurred or that she was dying.”

They exited the woodland into a lush meadow and across the way, stood a majestic manor, more castle than house.

Beatrice couldn’t contain her gasp or the involuntary tightening of her arms around his middle.

“Oh, Cassius. Your family home is magnificent.”

“I never tire of coming home.” Pride deepened his voice. “No matter what might happen while I am away, this place lifts my spirits every time.”

A noise farther along the meadow drew her attention, and she slid a casual glance in that direction.

A pair of rough-looking men thundered from the tree line. Even at this distance, she could see the menace contorting their unshaven faces.

No. Not now.

Not when we are so close.

“Cassius? There are two men⁠—”

His curse cut off her warning.

“Hold tight, Beatrice. We must make a break for the house.”