Epilogue

January 25, 1817

Paris, France

Dear Nathaniel ,

How does one begin a letter when one’s heart is bursting with so many things that it’s difficult to say which should take precedence?

I suppose I should start in order of events and alert you of the various commendations that have reached me regarding the St . Stephen’s Day fete at Rosemead . By all accounts, it was as merry and festive an evening as the house has ever seen, and I don’t think I need to tell you that, given your limited time and resources to prepare, you accomplished an impressive feat indeed.

I’m so grateful for the devoted friends and servants we’ve amassed over the years who helped make the evening possible. The Prescott family are as loyal of neighbors as one could ever hope to find, and I’ve written to Lord Rockliffe to express my utmost appreciation to his entire household. As for our own faithful staff, they are all to be commended for their work, and I’m pleased to hear that Mrs . White and Mrs . Ruck have both departed for a well-deserved holiday.

But mostly, I’m grateful for you. And while I hope you already know this, I think it still warrants saying: I’m proud of you, my son. I regret the misunderstandings that cloud our past more than I can express, but having you return to me, and seeing you choose to continue back to England and accept what is your birthright, was the greatest gift I could have possibly received. Your dedication to carrying on Rosemead’s longstanding yuletide tradition is admirable. Should you use even a fraction of that care and devotion when dealing with other estate matters, Rosemead is sure to thrive for many years to come. Rest assured that whenever you seek guidance, I’m always here to offer it from afar. Yet when the day does come that the title, and everything along with it, falls solely to you, I have no doubt I’ll be leaving it in the best of hands.

As for the other news to come out of St . Stephen’s Day —namely, your betrothal to Lady Emily Prescott —what can I do but extend my most heartfelt congratulations? I would have hesitated to say this in your younger years—for youth often seem inclined to do the opposite of what’s advised by their elders—but I trust you’ve reached an age where I can safely tell you: I always hoped. I don’t wish to sound like a meddling old matchmaker, but there is something about the two of you that I’ve long believed would suit. Lady Emily is a delightful young woman, and I have every confidence she’ll make you an affectionate and steadfast wife. She has already done Rosemead proud with her role in organizing the party, and I can think of no one I’d rather call my daughter and the future viscountess.

My only grievance in all this is that you didn’t have a longer betrothal period, for had I known of your intention to marry, I would have been on a ship bound for England at once so I could witness your happy day. Even though you had only a small ceremony in the Beaumont drawing room (and what a way to bring in the new year, might I add), I would have very much liked to be there by your side.

That being said, I cannot fault you for your haste. I know how difficult it is to wait when you love someone to the point that it consumes your entire person, and if life gives you the opportunity to unrestrainedly follow your heart, I’m a strong believer that you should take it.

I have taken that opportunity for myself, at long last, and your support and understanding have helped make my happiness complete. The only thing to augment it further has been knowing you found that same happiness, too—the type of joy that fills your soul and wraps around your heart because you know those crucial pieces of yourself are kept safe in the hands of another.

I wish you both many blissful and prosperous years together, and a love that flourishes with each passing day. I was so delighted to hear that you’re considering a wedding trip to France come spring; please know that Henry and I would welcome you and your new bride with open arms.

Until then, I remain

Your loving father

THE END

Thank you for reading!

Not quite ready to say goodbye to Emily and Nate? Sign up for my newsletter to get a free steamy bonus epilogue. You will also be the first to know about special promotions and new releases, including what’s coming next in the Rockliffe Dynasty series. Join now at:

www.janemaguireauthor.com/newsletter