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Rose hadn’t Coincidence did not bring her to Everleigh Coincidence had nothing to do with the deep sense of belonging she experienced when held in Christian’s arms This was her predestined path

“I should go” She si Still, she drew Mrs Hibbet into an eo, but you have given lih like a son Anyone can see that Know that I love him, too Know that I never meant to hurt him”

The words tuht or censure, but she felt the truth of them deep in her bones Tears welled in her eyes, and she hurried away down the stairs before she cru wreck

Once outside the study, she stood there for a randfather clock, listened to the rhythmical tick, wished she could turn back the hands and ain She looked at the tapestries lining the walls on the stairs, inhaled the sht a hint of Christian’s ne in the air

Coh

Sucking in a breath, she straightened her shoulders and knocked the door One could not postpone the inevitable

She waited to hear Christian’s voice, wondered if he would give any indication as to his feelings Instead of calling for her to enter he yanked open the door, and their eyes met

It was as she feared Suspicion and disappointems He held his mouth in a firm, cynical line

“Rose So, it appears the D is for Darby” He stepped back and bowed “Won’t you come in?”

She entered the room, and her beloved brother jumped up from the chair

“Rose!” Oliver rushed forward and drew her into an embrace He s He looked at her, regret swi away? I would have come sooner had I known of your predicament”

Rose looked up and cupped his cheeks siination “There is nothing to forgive”

Nicole rushed to their side “Oh, I have been so worried about you Do you kno many times we’ve travelled the road back and forth to London? What made you come here?”

Rose glanced briefly at Christian although from the dark look in his eyes she wished she hadn’t She needed to explain it all to him first

“Yes, why did you not return to London?” Christian’s ice-cold tone sliced through the air “After all, you left Morton Manor with the intention of reaching Lord Cunningham did you not? He is the man you love, the one you wish to marry?”