Chapter 50 - Fifty
The rhythmic clatter of hooves against cobblestone provided the only soundtrack to the tense journey. Suzy, ensconced in a plush corner of the carriage, seemed oblivious to the awkward silence that stretched between them. She had buried herself in her book once more, her brow furrowed in concentration as she devoured the pages.
A rumble from her stomach, a most ungentle reminder of hunger, broke the quiet. She reached into the wicker basket beside her, a gift from the Queen filled with an assortment of sweet pastries and savory snacks. As she munched on a delicate cream puff, a contented sigh escaped her lips.
"This is simply divine," she murmured thoughtfully, turning a page with a flourish. "Elias really knows how to scout a good book. I’ll have to thank him when I get back."
Ryan, perched stiffly on the opposite seat, shot her a quick glance. Her words, barely audible over the rhythmic rattle of the carriage wheels, did little to break the ice that had settled between them. He turned his gaze back towards the passing scenery, a sense of frustration gnawing at him.
The silence, however, proved to be short-lived. A gasp escaped Suzy’s lips, followed by a soft giggle. Ryan couldn’t help but steal another glance, his brow furrowed in confusion.
"Aww, that’s so adorbs" she murmured, a touch of amusement in her voice.
Ryan, who had been trying to ignore her, shot her another quick, surprised glance. But Suzy, oblivious to his scrutiny, continued reading, oblivious to the growing tension in the confined space.
Another rustle of pages, followed by a surprised gasp and a string of nonsensical words, "Wowzers," she exclaimed, her voice laced with amusement, "that plot twist was totally unexpected!"
Ryan winced inwardly. The carefree chatter, the unguarded laughter – it was a stark contrast to the composed Duchess she was supposed to be. He yearned for the quiet efficiency she usually displayed, the reserved demeanor that fit perfectly with his own stoic nature which was a rare sight to witness,to be honest.
Another delighted squeal erupted from Suzy, followed by a flurry of excited whispers. "Oh my goodness," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper, "this is getting good!"
Then, with a dramatic gasp, she declared, "She ate and left no crumbs! The audacity! "