Chapter 64 - Sixty Four
A sliver of sunlight peeked through the heavy curtains, rousing Suzy from a surprisingly restful sleep. The events of the night before seemed distant, a hazy memory softened by a decent night’s rest and the soothing effects of the herbal tea.
She stretched languidly, a sense of well-being washing over her. Today, she decided, would be a new day. She’d face whatever challenges awaited her with a clear head and a calm heart.
Suzy luxuriated in a long, warm bath, the steam cleansing away the remnants of the storm and the lingering fear. Dressed in a simple yet elegant gown, she sipped her herbal tea, the fragrant aroma filling her with a sense of peace.
With renewed purpose, she made her way downstairs, eager to oversee the preparations for the upcoming ball. The grand ballroom, a magnificent space adorned with sparkling chandeliers and opulent tapestries, was already a hive of activity. Servants scurried back and forth, polishing furniture, arranging flowers, and transforming the room into a breathtaking venue.
As Suzy approached the bustling scene, however, a peculiar sight made her stop short. In the center of the room, a young woman, with dark brown hair and a confident air that mirrored Suzy’s own, stood barking orders at the servants. She seemed to be in her late twenties, perhaps Byron’s age or even slightly older, but still younger than Ryan.
Suzy’s brow furrowed in confusion. "Excuse me," she said, her voice cutting through the general hubbub. She approached the woman, her gaze cool and assessing. "Who are you, and what’s going on here?"
The woman turned, her surprise quickly morphing into a smug smile. "Ah, the Duchess," she replied, her voice a clipped, affected tone. "Duke Ryan called for my services last night. Apparently, the preparations for the upcoming ball required a more... professional touch."
Suzy’s blood boiled. Ryan had called for someone else to handle an event that was traditionally the Duchess’s responsibility? Without even a word to her? This was a blatant disregard for her authority and a public humiliation.
A wave of betrayal and resentment washed over her. "Professional?" she spat, her voice tight with anger. "I believe I have managed quite well these past few weeks. What makes you think you’re better suited for the task?"