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Two years ago…

SOME PEOPLE DESERVE THEIR reputation. They work hard for it and have earned the labels attributed to them. It’s something to be proud of, regardless of whether said reputation leads to notoriety or infamy.

Others befall their reputations. Usually with utter devastation.

Then there are those who find a label attached to them and decide to live up to it. No matter the cost.

Without worry for her own reputation, Lady Astrid alighted the carriage boasting the Regium ducal emblem. She fluffed her skirts and took a few steps toward the manor. The place was familiar and inviting, and she had always enjoyed the house parties thrown here.

Her brother stood a few feet away and stretched his arms while his dark hair blew softly in the breeze.

“I didn’t think we would make it here so quickly.”

“It’s a dubious season to travel in, but we got lucky.”

“That we did.” She watched as he began making his way toward the house, but stopped when he realized she wasn’t following him.

She planned to stroll the grounds before the other guests of the house party arrived. The travel hadn’t been arduous, so she didn’t really need to rest up before dinner. What she needed was to stretch her legs and enjoy the crisp fall air.

“Astrid, don’t you want to rest?” Isaac asked.

“No, I’ve been sitting for long enough.”

“You are a bit of a restless soul, aren’t you? Like a bucking horse. Pent up energy but with no particular direction in which to channel it, I’d say.”

“I like to move around.” She restated archly.

Shuffling sounds caused her to turn her head to the footman unloading her luggage. She thanked him and swiveled back to Isaac. “There will be time to rest later this evening.”

Isaac’s half smile was contagious. “This is the Countess of Erewyn. You do know Bethany’s mother, don’t you?”

Astrid chuckled. “You’re right. She always throws quite a lively party, doesn’t she?”

“I’m sure there will be dancing tonight, even though it’s the first night.”

“True.”

“Remind me. How many dresses did you pack?”

“Enough,” she swatted his arm.

He laughed. “That’s the perfect answer, but what I’m seeing is telling me that you packed two trunks too many.”

“You have no idea what we women suffer for fashion.”

“Suffer? I thought you liked that kind of stuff?”

She shrugged. “At times it’s nice. But it can be burdensome to always convey the perfect image.”

“You’re telling me. I’m a duke.”

“Well, then we suffer together!” She took his arm in hers. “But we can conquer anything together.”

He just laughed again. “The question I would have for that scenario is which one of us would be leading the charge.”

“Me, of course,” she said as if it brooked no argument.

“That’s what I thought.” He patted her hand. “It’s going to be a long evening. Entertaining. But long. Why don’t you get some rest now?”

She looked longingly at the open fields. “You’re right. All the same, I’d like to get some fresh air.”

“Astrid!” A high-pitched voice called out. “You’re here!” Bethany picked up her skirts and ran over to embrace her friend. “You’re early.”

“The roads were clear, so we made good time.”

“That’s wonderful. When the butler told me you were here, I almost didn’t believe him. Sadly, I have to help mother with a few last minute plans, otherwise I would keep you company.”

“Of course,” Astrid smiled, “help your mother. I had hoped to take a quick stroll.”

“In that case, be sure to check out the new rose garden mother started. It’s incredible. Just walk around the right side of the manor and you can’t miss it.”

“That sounds delightful.”

“I guess I’ll make do with something,” Isaac feigned dejection.

“You can join my cousin. He’s shooting out back.”

“Perfect.” Isaac nodded and left the women.

“It’s so good to have you here, Astrid. It’s been too long. I wish we could—”

“Please, go do what you need to do. We shall have an entire week together.”

With a quick embrace, she turned back and made her way inside.

And Astrid took off to wander around Altwan Manor in search of the rose garden Bethany had pointed out.

Once she rounded the side of the house, she caught sight of her destination.

Even from yards away she could see the vibrant hues of reds and pinks.

Knowing that, she imagined the rich fragrance that was sure to greet her soon.

From the large windows, many a guest must enjoy the view on a rainy day.

Just before she was able to reach the garden, two little voices rang out.

“I caught you!” a young girl, about five years old, shouted in glee.

“No, you didn’t. I didn’t feel anything,” the older boy retorted. He looked to be a few years older than her.

“Yes, I did. I touched your shirt.”

“Doesn’t count.”

“Does too.”

Astrid had an older brother and knew exactly where this could lead. “Hello, you two. Could you show me where the rose garden is?”

The boy scowled at her, but the little girl raced up and grabbed her hand.

“I can show you.” She had the most beautiful smile with two front teeth too large for her mouth still.

“Why do you want to go to the garden when there’s so much else to do?” the girl asked curiously.

“I love admiring the flowers and their scent. But…” she waited until the boy was paying her his full attention, “if you two know of something more fun…”

He scoffed. “I know all the fun things to do here. I live here.”

“You must be Charles.” His light brown hair matched two of his sisters. Even though it had been a while since she’d seen them, based on age, she could guess which of the siblings he was.

His eyes widened in surprise, as she proceeded to explain. “I’m friends with your sister, Bethany. You probably don’t remember me.”

“And I’m Isabelle,” the girl shouted, tugging on her hand. Astrid looked down at the youngest in the family.

“Why yes, of course you are.” She squeezed the girl’s clammy hand. “Perhaps you two can show me your favorite place to play.”

Charles’ eyes lit up. “Follow me,” he bellowed as he took off down the green grass. All children should be as carefree and happy as these two were, Astrid mused. Then he was shouting more things as he went, but her attention was drawn downward to Isabelle.

“Come on. Let’s go. He won’t slow down for us.” Isabelle’s solemn face spoke from experience, as this was likely a daily encounter. Astrid recalled many memories of herself chasing after Isaac at their childhood home. She was lucky to have him.

“I know what that’s like. I have an older brother too.”

“You do?”

“Yes. And he’s one of my best friends.”

As the two skipped down the green, Isabelle scrunched up her face. “Charles is not my best friend.”

“Why do you say that?”

“He gets mad at me all the time.”

Astrid threw her head back in laughter. “That’s exactly what an older brother is supposed to do. I think you’re right on track for him to be your best friend.”

Isabelle yanked on Astrid’s arm, pulling her to a stop.

“Do you really think he likes me?”

“No.” She picked up the girl and swung around. “He’s your brother. He doesn’t just like you, he loves you, silly.”

Isabelle’s squeal warmed her heart. This was much better than resting in her guest bedchamber alone.