Chapter 20

2 weeks later

"We should head back..." Holding Virtue by the hand, Sebastian half-turned as if he meant to drag Virtue back with him.

But Virtue refused to be pulled. "Back? Whatever for?"

Sebastian grimaced, then indicated the clouds gathering above the canopy. They were thick and heavy and dark; a clear indication that at any moment they might burst apart and drown whoever was unlucky enough to be caught standing under them. But that was not the true reason.

Two weeks had passed since Sebastian and Virtue had shared an intimate moment at Castle Greystone, a night that had left them both with lingering thoughts and unspoken desires. In the days following, Virtue had grown restless within the stone walls of the castle, yearning for the fresh air and the sense of adventure that the surrounding woodlands promised. As usual, Sebastian had been unable to refuse his wife's spirited insistence.

So, he had reluctantly let Virtue lead him out of Castle Greystone and into the surrounding woodlands for the first time in too many years. The dense trees and winding paths had brought back memories he had long buried. He had promised to show her a lookout point too, a special place nestled atop a hill that overlooked the expansive valley below. As a child, he had often come there with his mother, escaping the confines of his life to the serene beauty of the landscape. The view had been breathtaking, with perfectly green meadows and rolling hills stretching as far as the eye could see, dotted with wildflowers and ancient oaks. In the distance, the river had glinted in the sunlight, winding its way through the valley like a silver ribbon.

The lookout point had held a bittersweet mix of joy and sorrow for Sebastian. He had remembered sitting beside his mother, listening to her soft voice as she recited tales of heroic battles fought on those very plains by his ancestors before him. She had spoken of valor and sacrifice, her eyes shining with pride and fear as she had warned him of the harsh realities of war, though he had taken the wrong message from them. Those stories had fueled his youthful ambitions, planting the seeds of a soldier's resolve within him. Despite her pleas for him to seek a different path, he had been captivated by the romanticism of war she had so vividly painted. Little did he know, he had set himself on a path of self-destruction for the years to come.

Now, as they reached closer, he was having second thoughts.

"Oh, surely, the great Duke of Greystone is not afraid of a little rain," Virtue laughed, keeping a hold of his hand as she pulled him back.

Sebastian fixed his wife with a glare that seemed to have little to no effect on her anymore. "I am not afraid."

"It sure sounds like you are," she teased.

"I just..." Sebastian glanced about them as if worried. "I just don't want to be caught out here when the storm comes – it is dangerous, Virtue. If there is lightning, it might strike one of these trees, causing a fire or worse."

"Oh, well, it is a good thing I have you to protect me then, is it not? I, for one, have never felt so safe."

"Has anyone ever told you how stubborn you are?"

She grinned. "Almost all the time. And it is because I am so stubborn..." Virtue gently nudged Sebastian forward, still holding his hand as she fell back in beside him. "That you should know better than to argue with me."

"I am beginning to realize that."

"Just one of my many positive qualities." The two started walking again, Virtue making sure to keep a hold of Sebastian's hand, leaning in close and holding his arm with her other hand. He did not withdraw at her touch like he might once have, nor was he so nervous around her. If anything, her presence seemed to calm him.

"I shall let you know when I learn of one more."

"One more what?"

"A positive quality," he joked. "Surely, you have more than the one?"

"Oh—" She slapped his arm playfully. "When did my husband become a jester?"

"I was not trying to be. Sometimes the truth has a way of seeming humorous."

Virtue slapped Sebastian's arm again, and then, because the moment felt right, she leaned in and gave him a kiss on his cheek. The right cheek, that was, where his mask would ordinarily be covering. He wasn't wearing it today, leaving his scar exposed, which her lips found without hesitation. And as she kissed his scar, she felt Sebastian catch his breath, for a moment feeling as if he might pull away. But she held him tight, kissed him again, and he relaxed.

"I know you said you would visit the place with your mother when you were younger, but is it strange I cannot for the life of me imagine the fearsome Sebastian, Duke of Greystone, as a child, one who was doted on by his mother no less. And what of your father? You have spoken a lot of your mother but said very little of him."

"That man was too embroiled in his own wealth and status to care for the path his son carved out," Sebastian murmured emotionlessly. "I don't think he cared that I had decided to purchase a commission, he was neck-deep in supply and manufacturing contracts, and war was just another profit avenue for him."

"Oh…" Virtue trailed off.

Sebastian suddenly grinned, lightening the moment. "We should be there soon," he began, his eyes flicking about nervously, "If I am correct in my estimations, that is… I am sure it is nearby."

"Walking around in a few extra circles? I'm in no rush," Virtue giggled.

He side-eyed her, aware that she was making fun. "We shall see if you are singing a similar tune when the storm comes."

"Ah, but as said, I shall have you to protect me. And this big coat you are wearing—" She flapped the side of his coat. "Will make a perfect cover from the rain. A shame it will only be large enough to cover myself. You might have to get wet, but that is a sacrifice I am willing to make."

There was a deep growl at the base of his throat, a not-so-silent rebuke at her comment. She was frustrating him, she knew, testing his limits so she might see what she could get away with. But she was beginning to understand her husband well by now, knowing that most of the time, the anger he wore like armor was aimed in his direction and not at her. As if he was warning himself not to get upset, as if the other side of him was trying to get out and he was growling at it to stay away.

She found it charming in a strange way, for it told her that he was trying his best. Just the fact that he'd agreed to this walk today, without his mask on for that matter, spoke to how far the two had come in this relationship.

Well, as to his not wearing the mask… that was a more tricky conversation to have than the stroll. He had gotten used to not wearing it inside the castle, but to be outside without it on... there was a good reason he was behaving so nervously.

"I don't see why it matters?" he had complained to her, doing well to keep his anger in check when she asked him not to wear it before leaving.

"Precisely!" she had responded. "I don't see why it matters."

"That's what I just said!" he had snapped at her.

But Virtue had stood her ground, knowing by now that was the best way to deal with his temper. "If it doesn't matter, then there is no reason for you to wear it."

"I enjoy wearing it," he'd muttered lowly.

"That is not true, and you know it." She then swept into him, taking his hand, feeling him stiffen and then relax at her touch. "It will just be you and I," she had cooed softly. "And I prefer you without the mask." She reached up and stroked his face, his scar. "Please... for me."

In the end, she had won, as she knew she would. He was nervous. He was afraid, even. But as she was slowly starting to realize, he wanted to please her, to prove to her that there was more to him than what the mask implied. Slowly but surely, she was revealing his true character. Slowly but surely, he was changing before her eyes.

The day had dawned bright and sunny, mirroring their spirits as they'd set out, but now, nearly an hour into their walk, the sky had darkened with the promise of a storm. The once clear blue was now obscured by gathering clouds, and Sebastian was back to his previous, not-so-sure self.

"We must be close." Above them, the distant rumble of thunder rolled.

"You are the guide," she teased. "I am but a helpless villager lost in the woods."

Lightning whipped in the distance, followed by another roll of thunder—this time sounding closer. And those clouds, they seemed to shudder in the sky as if straining against the weight of the impending downpour.

Virtue could feel her husband's resolve wavering, though she knew well that his concern had little to do with the rain, despite his earlier insistence. This deep into the forest, there was a small chance they might come across a villager or two out for a walk, and the very notion of being seen in public without his mask struck a deeper fear within him—a fear he was not yet prepared to face.

Now, even she was beginning to consider turning back. She had witnessed Sebastian unravel and lose control a handful of times before. Never a pleasant experience, but one that she was becoming accustomed to and gradually dissuading to the point each occasion was scarcer than the last. Still, the thought of such an episode occurring here but incited by the actions of a villager sent a chill through her. Though the monster within him was often subdued, it was never truly vanquished.

As luck had it, a few moments later saw them breach the tree line as the forest gave way to a grassy knoll which arched several feet high into the sky. Sebastian pointed it out, laughing to himself as he pulled her toward it. From below, it appeared unremarkable, but as they climbed it, she saw the reason that he had been so eager to show her.

The view from above was breathtaking. The knoll stood over a canopy of trees, and the storm lent a dramatic tone to the sweeping vista that was revealed before Virtue's eyes. Dark clouds roiled above, casting moving shadows over the land. Below, the once-emerald meadows took on a steel-gray hue, acres of tall white reeds swaying in the gusting wind. Over the hills, patches of heather and gorse clung stubbornly, lending a touch of color to their surroundings. The distant stream, now a torrent under the rain, surged through the valley, its edges frothy and white against the sodden earth. Lightning occasionally illuminated the sky, revealing fleeting glimpses of the rugged landscape's wild, untamed beauty, while thunder rumbled like a warning over the moorlands and the castle in the distance. The entire panorama was alive with the fierce, raw power of nature, making the place feel like a world apart from any other.

"It's… it's otherworldly..." she gasped as she took it in, turning on the spot, eyes marveling at the sight.

"It is," he agreed, not once looking at the view, admiring Virtue the whole while instead.

She beamed and turned her attention on him. He smiled for her and she held her hands out for him to take. He did just that and she pulled him closer, bodies touching, faces inches apart. Alone out here, not a soul for miles it seemed, suddenly, Virtue's mind wasn't on the view anymore...

"Thank you," she murmured in a soft whisper.

"Whatever for?" he grinned.

She responded with a kiss. Full on the lips. Wet and filled with passion. Sebastian released her hands, only to cradle her face in his own, holding her there as he devoured her. Darkness covered them from the encroaching clouds, but a single ray of light seemed to break through where they stood—alone in this world, just the two of them, happiness found in an otherwise somber landscape.

A familiar surge of excitement raced through Virtue. Blood running hot. Body trembling as that thrill built. Her hands roved across Sebastian's steely body, his wet clothes clinging tightly to his muscular frame everywhere she touched.

Suddenly, a crack of lightning lit the sky above them and Virtue jumped, a startled cry escaping her lips. Sebastian took a step back, looking to the sky and scowling in frustration as rain began to fall. Light at first, but it did not take long before it intensified into a downpour.

"We have to head back!" he shouted, his voice barely audible over the thunder and the relentless rain.

Virtue pouted. "Must we?"

He grinned, water streaming through his hair as he ran a hand through the wet strands. "Come on. Before we drown."

"Oh, I'll be fine!" she giggled. "You have that coat for me, remember?" She arched a brow at him and he didn't even hesitate, happily shrugging it from his shoulders and holding it over her head.

A monster once perhaps, but no more.

They were still laughing as they dashed through the tall gates surrounding Greystone Castle and into the shelter of the gardens. It was still pouring rain. Lightning and thunder still waged war overhead. The once-dry moat encircling the castle had begun flowing again too over the last week of stormy weather. But none of that mattered. Drenched as they were and covered in mud, none of it mattered, for their spirits remained undamped when standing beside one another.

That was until they saw Lucy waiting for them by the entrance—standing beneath the veranda's shelter so as to not get wet. She had her arms crossed and a look on her face that was none too pleased.

"Oh no," Virtue giggled at the sight of her. "Mother is angry."

Sebastian came in behind her, spying Lucy watching them. "She is very rarely happy, is she?" he chuckled.

"Lucy!" Virtue called as they ascended the steps of the veranda. "So nice of you to meet us here."

"So nice of you to make it back, Your Grace," Lucy said dryly. "Mr. Merchant was nearly at the point of dispatching a search party."

"Oh, it is just a little rain," Virtue replied, rolling her eyes playfully.

"Your Grace," Lucy smiled for Sebastian. Virtue noticed her eyes flick to the scar and a fleeting frown cross her maid's features, but thankfully, she masked it well. "We have a fire warming for you inside the drawing room. And, of course, steaming tea awaits the two of you."

"Tea?" Virtue perked up as she stepped inside, escaping the relentless downpour. "Has it finally arrived?" she asked, handing the maid Sebastian's drenched coat.

"I am afraid not," Lucy accepted it with a sigh.

"Still?" Sebastian grumbled as he joined them in the foyer. He gave his hair a shake, sending droplets of water cascading across the space. "It has been nearly two weeks now. It should be here already."

"Perhaps it has been mislaid," Lucy suggested diplomatically. "We are, if you will pardon the observation, somewhat removed from the usual thoroughfares."

"I suppose so..." Sebastian muttered, sounding rather annoyed.

They were referring to a shipment that Sebastian had ordered from London almost a fortnight ago—a collection of rare and costly tea leaves sourced from China. Virtue had once mentioned her fondness for exotic teas, prompting Sebastian to order them without a second thought. While the gesture was both thoughtful and appreciated, Virtue could not help but wish for the teas to arrive sooner.

"Anything else?" Sebastian asked as he started through the foyer.

As if summoned by his very words, Albion, the butler, emerged from around the corner. "Ah, Your Grace! Some urgent correspondence has arrived in your absence," he said as he fell in step behind Sebastian. "I have set it by the hearth, awaiting your perusal."

"Thank you, my good man," Sebastian acknowledged with a nod.

"And thank you too, Lucy. I shall take a bath after I have warmed up, you can return to your duties for now," Virtue added, offering a warm smile. Lucy returned it, then eyed the Duke warily before curtseying and scurrying off. She had not taken to the Duke as swiftly as Virtue had, mostly due to how protective she was over her mistress and friend, but then again, she had not had the same opportunities to know him as deeply. And the mere fact she wasn't as nervous around him as before was a good start.

Together, Sebastian and Virtue proceeded to the drawing room where a welcoming fire indeed crackled in the hearth. Sebastian moved to prepare some tea, while Virtue approached the hearth to inspect the two letters resting by it.

"Anything that looks important?" Sebastian inquired.

Virtue's expression turned curious as she examined the two envelopes. "One bears the seal of the Rochesters."

"Oh? Open it," Sebastian urged.

Virtue did just that, her eyes lighting up when she read the details. "They are hosting a ball," she exclaimed, barely able to contain her excitement. She paced in small circles like an energetic mouse. "This week too! A masquerade ball! Oh, how delightful!"

"They are?" Sebastian grimaced. His expression was far less enthusiastic, as he rubbed his elbow awkwardly. "From the Rochesters too, eh? For me? That's a first."

Virtue sucked through her teeth when she realized the problem, sensing the shift in tone. "I suppose we don't need to attend..." she said softly. "I know you don't favor... that social events such as this are not to your liking."

"But they are to yours," he sighed, bowing his head.

"It is a masquerade ball," she reminded him, her tone pitching higher in hope, trying to lighten the mood. "Masks are expected. Faith, my return to high society would be a larger spectacle than yours after what transpired the last time I attended a ball."

Sebastian met her gaze flatly. "That is not really the point though, is it?"

Virtue winced. "I know, I know, but..."

Or rather, she didn't. She didn't know what to say. The two had indeed come a long way as of late, and she was grateful for that. But they were only ever alone, and where Virtue cherished their private moments together, she also longed to share their happiness more publicly at balls, soirees, and promenades, to socialize and mingle and, most importantly, be seen. She knew that people spoke unkindly of her marriage to the Duke but she also knew that if the two were seen together just once, that would all change.

But she did not want to press him too harshly. She had a week until this event, plenty of time to slowly bring him around to her way of thinking.

"What does the other say?" Sebastian finally asked.

"Oh." She blinked and looked at the other envelope, frowning when she realized it bore no markings whatsoever. "It does not say."

"What do you mean?" He fell in beside her and took it from her hands. "This was with the other?"

"It was."

He frowned deeply as he tore it open. As his eyes scanned the single page, his expression gradually began to darken. Virtue watched, a chill running down her spine at the sight of his clenched jaw and the hard set of his lips. The usual warmth in his gaze was gone, replaced by a brooding intensity that made her heart race with concern—so much so that she nearly took a step back—for it was a look she recognized all too well.

"What—what does it say?" she asked hesitantly.

"Here. See for yourself." He thrust the page to her and she took it gingerly. Then she read it, only to gasp at the words written.

To my darling Virtue,

If my love for you was an ocean, it would take centuries to cross and still I do not feel that encapsulates how dearly I hold you in my heart. For now, simply know that my love for you burns brighter than the sun on a summer's day and when the time comes, we will finally be together.

Yours always, your secret admirer.

"Sebastian, I don't... I have no... this isn't..." She had no idea what to say. She read the words again, each syllable deepening the nauseous feeling brewing inside her. And that sick feeling rose when she saw the look on her husband's face.

"Who sent this?" he asked, unable to meet her eyes.

"I… I don't know?" she responded, her voice rising in distress. "Your guess is as good as mine. But it is nothing, Sebastian. Only a letter."

"It seems like more than that."

"Here." With a swift, decisive motion, she tore the letter in half and tossed the pieces into the fire. "That is what I think of it." Then she took his hand in hers and kissed his knuckles. She could feel him shaking, angered by the letter in a way that didn't surprise her at all. "Who cares who sent it? It means nothing."

"Someone is obsessed with you. Even though you are now married…" He sucked through his teeth. "Sending such a letter is hardly the act of a sane mind."

"Not sane at all," she agreed, trying for a chuckle. "Such a person is not worthy of our concern."

"Yet, they could be potentially dangerous," he countered, his head snapping up to meet her gaze with an intensity that underscored his concern. "The author of this missive—"

"Is of no consequence to us, nor should we let them be." She tightened her grip on his hands, her eyes locking onto his with an earnestness so that he might see how little she cared for such things. "They clearly hope to drive a wedge between us. In fact, I hope we do learn who sent it," she added, her tone lightening. "So they might understand what it means to provoke the ire of the Duke of Greystone."

He was angry, that was clear. Furious, for he had every right to be. And something else... a look she did not understand until he spoke.

"The Rochester Ball is in how many days?" His words were clipped, spoken through gritted teeth.

Virtue looked back at the other correspondence. "Five."

"Perfect. More than enough time. I would love nothing more than to attend with you."

She blinked, taken aback. "You—you would?"

"I would," he affirmed, his decision firm.

That… was unexpected. Although, from the wolfish manner in which he was gazing into the fire where the letter burned, perhaps it wasn't entirely surprising. Did he mean to coax out the person who sent the letter and dissuade them of their foolish pursuit? Or was he merely trying to prove to Virtue that he was all that she needed and he would gladly make any concession for her… even attending a socialite ball which she knew he loathed?

Well, truthfully, the reason behind it mattered little to her.

They would attend the Rochester Ball together, their first social engagement as a married couple. The prospect filled Virtue with such excitement that, as they departed the room to bathe, she all but forgot the unsettling letter. Life was simply too splendid to be overshadowed by such trivialities.