Chapter 66: Respect Goes Both Ways
Thankfully, the ride back to the manor was quiet. Reagan didn’t bring up any conversations and it wasn’t like I gave him the chance to start one. I picked up the book I had found in the carriage and began reading it while the steady rhythm of the horse’s hooves filled the space between us, The book in front of me became a shield as I stared intensely it, pretending to be engrossed it even though I had already read every single words back at the castle.
I just needed something that would keep me distracted from the raging thoughts in my head.
Across from me, Reagan sat still and his presence pressed felt like a weight pressed against my ribs, a reminder of the mess we found ourselves in. Occasionally, I would feel Reagan’s gaze on me, his mouth pressed together almost as if there was something he wanted to say but he refrained himself from speaking which was good enough for me. I’ve got nothing to say to say to him, it’s not like he was willing to me anyway.
So until he was willing to hear everything I have to say, I won’t be saying anything to him. He can stew in his silence for all I care!
I must have dozed off at one point because the carriage jolted forward, startling me awake. I looked out the window only to realize that we’ve finally arrived at our destination.
The manor stood at a distance with its pointed towers piercing through the dim sky. Something like dread twisted within my stomach. I’ve never felt an ounce of comfort, neither back at the castle or at this place. Both places were just different cages, one displayed golden ornaments and if not careful, it’s luxuries can blind you and the other, well it simply hid itself in darkness.
Heaving out a breath, I watched as Reagan got out of the carriage without sparing a backward glance. Although he did turn so he could help me down from the carriage. I stared at his outstretched hands then back up at him. With a small scoff, I hiked my skirts up and jumped out of the carriage. I didn’t need his help.
I heard Reagan heave a sigh, but I didn’t care about him. My eyes was focused on Heather who was now running towards me. A smile graced my face as I started running towards her and we met each other half way, immediately hugging each other.
Heather held me tightly, then she moved me away as she began inspecting me. "Are you okay? We heard about the attack and for I was so worried about you milady." Heather rushed out before she started sobbing, "I knew I should have gone with you, I knew I should never have left you alone, I knew I should_"
"Heather, Heather," I said unable to stop the laughter that came out of me as I wiped the tears streaming down her face. "I am okay, you do need to worry too much."
"Worry too much? My lady you are with child, you need to be more careful now!" She hissed at me before she glanced down at my stomach, "Is the baby.....Is the baby..."