Chapter 20

CHAPTER TWENTY

" H ere is the last batch of fruits you requested, Miss Balfour," a housemaid announced as she approached, a basket of apples in her hands.

"Oh, wonderful!" Evelina rose from her seat and walked over, her eyes lighting up at the sight. "Thank you, Sarah. These apples look delightful," she spoke with a warm smile, reaching out to take them.

Sarah, the maid, as she recognized, dipped into a respectful curtsy. "I'm glad you approve, Miss. Is there anything else you require?"

Evelina shook her head, her gratitude evident in her tone. "No, that will be all for now, thank you, Sarah. Your diligence is always appreciated."

The maid's eyes gleamed with pride at the acknowledgment. "It is my pleasure to serve you, Miss. If there is anything else you need, please do not hesitate to ask."

With a nod of farewell, she turned to leave, leaving Evelina to savor the pleasantness of the moment.

During her lessons with Eliza, she had bonded with most of the servants at Dunmore House. She had met Sarah in the early hours of the morning, as the sun cast a golden glow over the estate. They ended up working side by side, and despite the maid's horror and resistance, they folded linens with practiced ease.

Sarah shared a childhood memory that tugged at Evelina's heartstrings. At that moment, Evelina ignored class distinctions and treated the woman as she would anyone in pain, giving her advice and words of comfort.

Their friendship deepened as they crossed paths more often at the estate, through simple gestures and heartfelt conversations. And it was so with lots other staff of the duke's.

Evelina had a preference for that being the kind of life she would like to lead if given the opportunity. She would not want for anything else, other than a functioning, close-knit staff.

Thus, she was grateful for the relationships she had fostered in Dunmore House. Not only did they make her job easier, but they also felt like an escape into another reality, where she was a proper lady in a grand house, with adequate staff.

"That looks a bit heavy—let me take that off your hands."

The Duke's voice, warm and unexpected, sent a shiver down her spine as she felt his presence suddenly behind her. She leaped forward, and the basket slipped from her grasp, a cascade of apples tumbling to the ground.

Gabriel arched an eyebrow at her sudden movement, his eyes darting from her to the apples at their feet.

Evelina's cheeks burned with embarrassment, and her eyes widened in fear. "I-I'm so sorry, Your Grace, I did not mean to?—"

A soft chuckle escaped his lips, amusement dancing in his eyes as he reassured her, "It's quite all right, Miss Balfour. Accidents happen, no harm done."

Unable to tear her eyes away from his striking smile, her distress only seemed to deepen and she insisted, "No, it's not all right. I can't believe I was so clumsy!"

"No one is above mistakes, of course. Especially not you, considering all that has transpired since I met you."

He's teasing me… But it feels different. Those eyes…

Evelina was helpless against the blush that bloomed on her cheeks. She quickly averted her gaze, feeling the heat spread down her neck as he continued to stare at her. She could barely muster a response as she struggled to calm her racing heart.

"I-I would act more cautiously next time. I'm sorry."

Gabriel's expression changed, and his voice, low and soothing, seemed to seek to ease her embarrassment, "Please, do not distress yourself over such a trifle matter. "I assure you, there is no need for apologies." His lips quirked up. "Still, you should have just let the maid bring the basket if you were going to be this jumpy and worried."

Evelina pouted. "And you, Your Grace, could have easily ordered one of the footmen to assist me instead of… startling me like this."

A small smirk tugged at the corners of Gabriel's lips. "Ah, well, I had grown rather tired of sitting idly by. It was interesting to follow you."

His eyes held a spark of mischief as he observed her reaction, seeming to enjoy the way her cheeks flamed.

Get it together, Evelina.

She shook her head. As her gaze fell to the floor, she noticed a small dent and stain on Gabriel's boot. A small gasp escaped her lips, her eyes widening in dismay at the sight.

"Your boot! How hard did the fruits fall to leave prints? Goodness, I... I'm terribly sorry, Your Grace," She stammered, her gaze flitting from the dent and back.

Gabriel barely checked the damage and raised an eyebrow in response once more, "It's only a boot, Miss Balfour. I can assure you, I will be perfectly all right," he reassured her with a calm demeanor that was surprising.

His understanding and non-combative attitude of recent times were not helping in ridding her of her ever growing feelings for him.

Not convinced by his nonchalance, her voice quivered slightly as she spoke, filled with concern, "But the apples... they fell, leaving a smudge trail. It can not be all right. Did it not hurt?"

A chuckle escaped Gabriel's lips at her reaction, his eyes narrowing in playful offense, "Do you truly think so little of me, Miss Balfour? You believe a few apples falling on my foot would be enough to turn me lame?"

Struggling with such unusual smiles and humor from him, she stumbled over her words again, "Oh, but no, Your Grace, of course not," her cheeks remained flushed, her gaze flickering between him and the stained boot, "I... I was only concerned."

To her further dismay, the duke responded by cocking his head to the side, peering at her in amusement and somewhat question.

"How kind of you, indeed."

Don't look at me like that…

With fully crimson cheeks, desperate to avoid his gaze, she let out a soft groan as she lifted the hem of her dress to reach for the fallen apples, allowing her apologies to continue.

"Thankfully, these apples are for Whiskers, so we wouldn't have to worry so much about the imperfections on them."

"I shall assist you," Gabriel's voice was warm, his eyes flickering to hers as he lowered himself to pick the fallen apples as well.

Evelina's cheeks remained flushed, shock evident in her expression as she watched him join her in gathering the fruit.

"Perhaps, you should not anchor yourself on that foot alone for now?" The words that came out her mouth were resulted more from the unease she felt watching a man such as him pick apples off the ground.

Gabriel's eyes flickered to her and back very quickly and he chuckled, "I suppose I should feel offended. It seems you truly view me a frail man."

"No, absolutely not, Your Grace, it's just-"

"One would think a rock was tossed on my foot instead, the dramatics of it all."

As her gaze flickered to him and back, she saw his eyes sparkling with amusement, seeming to enjoy the banter between them as he continued to assist her with the apples.

Evelina pouted as she hurried to pick more apples than him. "Would it not be odd if I showed no remorse?"

He let out another chuckle. "You're being a tad too remorseful. I am perfectly fine, and it is a simple matter."

"I can manage, Your Grace," she protested, her hands filled with apples. "You need not trouble yourself."

His low laughter echoed the air again as he teasingly remarked, "And who are you to give orders to a duke, Miss Balfour?"

Evelina hurriedly dumped her batch in the basket, shaking her head. "It's not right for you to do this."

"Says who? I am but always a man who makes his own decisions, outside what's expected, you know this."

"I would feel more at ease if you let me do this." She tried to reach for the last few apples when Gabriel suddenly grabbed her hand. "Your Grace!" She raised her head to glare at him.

However, her protest was met with a smirk. "Miss Balfour."

As their eyes met, along with him holding her hand in his, in that moment, time seemed to stand still. Their eyes locked, the intensity of their shared gaze speaking volumes.

Evelina's breath caught in her throat, and her breathing became heavy as his hands grew more possessive of hers, tightening and pulling her gently.

Will you kiss me again? Here?

But as quickly as it came, the moment was shattered and reality settled in by the sudden loud barking of the playful puppy only a couple feet away from them.

Startled, the two swiftly moved apart, surprise evident in their expressions. Evelina's cheeks aflame, she stood in a mix of embarrassment and awkwardness, avoiding Gabriel's gaze as she tried to compose herself.

In a decisive gesture, the Duke smoothly took the basket from her and, without a word, turned around to head back towards his daughter and the energetic puppy.

Left with no choice but to follow, Evelina trailed behind, her steps measured as she attempted to slow her racing heart.

The day had begun with her planning a picnic for herself, the Duke, and Eliza at the estate gardens. The sun cast a warm golden glow over the meticulously manicured inner gardens, painting the scene with a soft, ethereal light. A checkered blanket was spread out under the shade of a majestic oak tree, its sprawling branches providing a canopy of dappled sunlight.

Delicate porcelain tea sets adorned the makeshift table, accompanied by an array of delectable treats carefully arranged on delicate plates. The air was filled with the melodic chirping of birds and the bubbling of the fountain nearby, adding a tranquil background to the picturesque scene.

Evelina's attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the picnic, from the delicious refreshments to the selection of the spot. Yet, she found herself in a predicament despite the success of the afternoon. Nonetheless the idyllic setting, a cloud of unease hung over her heart.

The realization that she had developed feelings for Gabriel had woven a thread of nervous tension into every interaction. Even his proximity unsettled her.

The once easy rapport and banter she shared with the duke now felt like a tightrope walk, each moment fraught with her unspoken emotions. She was terribly more conscious of everything she did around him.

In contrast, Gabriel seemed more at ease in her presence with each passing day, only adding another layer of complexity to her emotions.

His newfound comfort around her was a mystery she couldn't quite unravel. His shift from guarded reserve to playful banter left her off balance, unsure of how to navigate this new dynamic.

Their meetings to discuss Eliza's lessons and ways to strengthen his bond with her had transformed from tense exchanges to lighthearted moments filled with banter and laughter.

More often than not, one would find them with Gabriel's teasing eliciting blushes and stammers from her, as well as short, tense moments that were unexplainable.

"Eliza, dearest, do you finally feel at ease now that our ‘newest' family member has had his fill?" Gabriel playfully nudged his daughter, a twinkle in his eyes.

Evelina joined in the banter as she sat down on the blanket. "Indeed, what a forgetful tutor I am! Neglecting to give poor Whiskers his share of fruits. I shall make amends promptly, rest assured."

Eliza's shy giggle rang out as she offered an apple to the dog. "Here you go, little one. Enjoy your treat." Her eyes sparkled with affection for her furry friend before flicking to Evelina and Gabriel. A grateful smile spread across her face. "Yes, thank you, both of you."

Gabriel affectionately patted his daughter's head. "Well done, my dear. Now that Whiskers is content, our afternoon can truly begin."

Eliza's laughter mingled with the rustle of leaves in the gentle breeze, as though creating a harmonious melody of bonds and simple joys of the moment.

As she gave Whiskers another apple, she turned to her father and Evelina with an eager smile. "Shall we play another round of hide-and-seek, today?"

Gabriel let out a groan and threw his head back in mock exhaustion. "You are… beginning to favor this game more than I can handle at this point."

"Oh, Your Grace." Evelina couldn't keep the grin off her face witnessing him be so expressive, "Are you certain that your main issue with the game isn't your continuous losing streak?"

His eyes lazily roamed over to her as he grinned in return. "Such is said from the one who is barely a league ahead of me."

Evelina could not contain her chortle, "I beg your finest pardon? I would remind you, Your Grace, we came to a tie when playing in the same positions."

"Only because I let you win. You don't seem to take failure well, Miss Balfour," he teased, shaking his head.

"Ah, and I was under the impression that lying wasn't the gentlemanly thing to do. Have the rules changed?"

They burst into laughter.

Eliza, her face lit up with excitement, stood up sharply. "Let's begin! I'll count this time, and you both find the hiding spots."

"Oh, great heavens."

Evelina laughed as Gabriel stood up reluctantly, his head in his hands. She clasped her hands together in excitement.

"All right? Are we ready?"

As Eliza started counting, the adults dashed off, their movements frantic as they sought out hiding places.

"Ready? Ready or not, here I come!"

The little girl's giggles carried across the garden as she began to search for them.

"Father, where are you?"

Gabriel's voice floated from behind a large oak tree. "Oh, you'll never find me here!"

Evelina's playful giggle sounded from a bush nearby. "Quick, Eliza, where do you think he's hiding?"

"I'll find you both, just you wait!" the little girl declared with determination.

After a few rounds of hide-and-seek, they regrouped on the blanket, breathless and grinning from ear to ear, the setting sun casting a warm glow over their faces.

"Your skills have surely improved since our last game, dear daughter." Gabriel's eyes were full of pride as he patted Eliza's head affectionately.

"Indeed, dearest, you're becoming quite the expert seeker!" Evelina chimed in, unable to contain her own praises.

The young girl beamed with pride, her cheeks flushing. "It's all thanks to Miss Balfour! She taught me how to listen, and to be aware of my surroundings!"

"To listen, you say?" Gabriel raised an eyebrow at Evelina, causing her cheeks to redden slightly. "And how did she go about that? I was not aware such a thing was included in the curriculum."

Evelina cleared her throat. "It's a lesson I developed with my sisters, Your Grace. After all, there is no harm in acquiring such knowledge—only good can come of it."

Gabriel responded with a heart-stopping smile. She struggled to hold his gaze, battling the slow flush creeping up her cheeks.

"It seems you have quite a couple of unconventional methods in store, Miss Balfour. Again, I wonder if I should be concerned. Do you teach my daughter what she actually should know?" he teased.

His tone was slow, teasing, as once again, had become the norm. Evelina bit her lip, hopeless against the crimson that now filled her cheeks. It was true, there was a lot of knowledge she had acquired whilst trying to survive in Elderglen Manor. Listening attentively helped her tell when her father returned home. She could tell just how drunk he was from the way his footsteps dragged across the hall before he reached the drawing room.

That skill had helped her decide whether she needed to send her younger sisters to their chambers, to shield them from the shame and pain of his state. Also, having barely any servants or guards forced her to become more aware of her movements and surroundings.

Perhaps if I married into a wealthy family… What would life be like in Dunmore House? Perhaps even having the opportunity to be the lady of the house…

Evelina's mind drifted to a false reality, one where the Duke was hers and she was his. She wondered what sort of family they would have.

Shaking off her untoward thoughts, she stated matter-of-factly, "I believe you have seen the results yourself, Your Grace. I need not try to defend the obvious."

"Yes, Father," Eliza piped up. "I have made immense progress in all my lessons. Miss Balfour has taught me a lot."

"And what about me, hmm?" Gabriel clutched at his chest, feigning hurt. "Have I not taught you important skills as well?"

"Forgive me, but which ones? How to keep a straight face at all times? Or command the gardens with your presence alone to expose those in hiding?" Evelina snorted.

"Sharp-witted as always, my dear Miss Balfour."

There was something about the way he called her that. Evelina's cheeks flushed and she suddenly felt tongue-tied. While Eliza's giggles carried in the air, her cheeks reddened as she watched the duke shake his head, and then tilt his head back to place a cherry in his mouth.

Oh, dear heavens…

As though they had a mind of their own, Evelina's eyes followed his movements. Before she realized it, she was lost in the surprisingly intimate moment, her gaze lingering on him, tracing the path of his lips as he savored the succulent cherries.

The air seemed to crackle with tension, and as Gabriel's gaze lazily shifted to her, sparks flew higher. Every movement, each bite, seemed to ignite a spark within her, bringing back the memory of that stormy night.

As his fingers delicately plucked another cherry, she felt a flush creeping up her neck, her pulse quickening at the sight. She found herself wishing she could switch places with the luscious fruit.

"Don't you think so, Miss Balfour?" Eliza's voice pierced through her reverie, grounding her in reality.

The spell was broken, but the heat lingered.

Keeping her flaming cheeks from Gabriel's inquisitive gaze, she lowered her head as she nodded.

"Indeed, my dear. Now, finish your food. You keep feeding Whiskers, but you ought to feed yourself too."

Eliza giggled softly. "All right, Mother."

Time seemed to freeze. Evelina's head snapped up immediately, her soft gasp ringing out in the air.

Eliza's eyes were wide as she realized her mistake, worry clouding her features as she met Evelina's gaze; the loaded expression etched on her face mirroring the sudden shift in the garden's atmosphere.

It took a couple of seconds for the words to sink in. But then, something akin to joy flickered in Evelina's eyes, a subtle warmth that belied her initial shock.

Just as a smile of understanding began to curve her lips, the Duke's voice sliced through the delicate moment, sharp and authoritative. "Eliza, never say that again." He said in a low and dark tone.

His words cut through the settling air like a blade, his demeanor had changed completely from the warm one he had displayed mere moments before. It had turned dark so swiftly; Evelina couldn't do anything but stare at him. Recognizing traces of the man she'd met originally.

His words lingered in the air, heavy and final, doubling the shadow that now hung over them.

Eliza's eyes welled with tears, her lower lip quivering in the wake of her father's reprimand. Her eyes darted between Evelina and the Duke, before she mumbled, "I'm sorry, I did not mean to."

Evelina's heart broke at the sight of the young girl's distress, and she forced herself to present her a reassuring smile. "It's all right, my dear. No harm done."

From the corner of her eye, she noticed Gabriel's features softening imperceptibly. His eyes flickered with remorse as he witnessed the sorrow on his daughter's face.

"Let us continue our picnic," he said with a gruff tenderness in his voice.

Eliza nodded meekly in response, her head still bowed, telling of her shame and sorrow.

The weight of the moment hung heavy in the air. Gabriel's gaze shifted, his eyes seeking out Evelina, his eyes seeming to search her, to proper place her thoughts or perhaps feelings in that moment.

With her heart heavy with of longing and resignation, she could barely meet his gaze fleetingly before her eyes dropped, unable to bear the weight of it all. He kept staring, yet she could not look at him.

She could not bring herself to.

Realization, stark and unforgiving, dawned on her—she would never be Eliza's mother, no matter how bittersweet those fleeting moments of maternal affection had been.