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“You did not touch your tea,” the Dowager Duchess remarked.

“I was here for a discussion, not refreshment,” Ava replied.

The Dowager Duchess also rose to her feet.

“I know you do not like me,” she started as she inched closer to Ava. “And I won’t pretend that I like you either. After all, you are my son’s wife. However, I will not have peace until I tell youagain that Edwin is a monster and you must leave him while you still can.”

Ava heaved an exasperated sigh. She decided to take a leaf from her mother-in-law’s book.

“Duchess, I know you do not like me or your son. However, I must warn you—steer clear of me and Edwin. I do not need your warnings, as I am with my husband of my own free will. You will not cross our paths ever again, and if you attempt to cause us any harm, I will ensure that you pay severely for your actions.”

The Dowager Duchess gaped at her in shock.

Ava gave a sweet smile. “Now, I really must leave. Thank you for your hospitality, Duchess. I truly appreciate it.”

With that, she left with her head held high.

EPILOGUE

The ride back from Lord Wilbury’s estate was rather uneventful. Edwin was happy, elated even. Not even the rattling and shuddering of the carriage could dampen his mood.

All he knew was that he had finally put the man who had caused him and his family harm behind bars—and it seemed the Earl might spend the rest of his years in prison.

The carriage had scarcely stopped in front of the house when Edwin hopped down.

He made straight for his wife’s chamber. Now that it was all over, he wanted nothing more than to hold her and reassure her that she was safe while he pressed kisses to her beautiful face.

He was, therefore, disappointed when he found her bedchamber empty.

Perhaps she is in the drawing room.

He also found the drawing room empty.

Now, he could not help but worry.

He spotted the butler in the foyer and summoned him.

“Have you seen the Duchess?” he asked.

“Indeed, Your Grace. Her Grace took a carriage and left.”

“What! Where did she go?” Edwin’s heart pounded in his chest

“I have no idea, Your Grace,” the butler responded.

Edwin’s mind raced, and tension gripped him. The fact that Lord Wilbury had finally been arrested certainly did not mean that Ava was now safe.

What if some thug attacked her carriage? What if they abducted her?

The mere thought made his stomach churn violently.

A clattering sound suddenly rent the air. Edwin perked up.

Ava is back?

He rushed outside just in time to see his wife alighting from the carriage.

Edwin was relieved. Ava was safe.