25. Chapter 25

Chapter 25

"In friendship, as in love, we are often happier through our ignorance than our knowledge." William ShakespeareIsabel leaned over her dressing table, moonlight glowing over the hibiscus in her hair. Jaw clenched, she plucked it from her ear and replaced her tiara. The wire pierced her scalp. Cursing, she threw it away. Hibiscus and diamonds stood side by side on the vanity.

Panting, she splayed her hands over the wooden surface. Henrique’s hurt expression haunted her. Stupid, stupid pride. Could she blame him for acting responsibly? He had been nothing but gentlemanly, and she had implied he was only worth his lust. Covering her face, she groaned. She had given him the treatment she despised men for. Isabel stared at her bed and then at the door. The clock struck the first chime of midnight. How could she sleep if she didn’t apologize?

She tucked the hibiscus under her ear and crept out of her room. The way to Henrique’s bedroom passed in a daze of empty corridors and dark passages. She tiptoed to the bachelor’s wing, keeping to the alcoves and shadows formed by the heavy drapery. Rustling and rushed voices prompted her to hide behind a statue. In the dim light, she could make only a couple’s outline, their hands interlaced.

Holding still, she waited. When the corridor was empty, she proceeded.

Flickering light spilled from Henrique’s bedroom. She paused, imagining his surprise at seeing her again. The memory of his kiss was still in her mouth, and her skin tingled where he had touched it just minutes before.

Pulse speeding, she opened the door a slit. A candelabra burned atop the nightstand. Henrique was not alone. It took a moment for what she saw to make sense. He kissed Rafaela, her scantily clad body draped over his. A stab pierced her chest, the pain so acute she feared she would crumble. His proclamations of honor masqueraded for excuses. Henrique was a blackguard. And he broke her heart.