Chapter 227 - Two Hundred And Twenty Seven
The rhythmic sway of the carriage and the soft drumming of the horses’ hooves on the packed earth road had lulled Suzy into a light slumber. She leaned against the velvet upholstery, her wide-brimmed traveling hat tilted slightly, a book lying open and forgotten in her lap. They were on their way from Carleton, heading towards the familiar tranquility of the Chateau Valeré, where the final, bustling preparations for the orphanage jubilee were in full swing.
Suddenly, the carriage gave a violent lurch as one of the wheels struck a sizeable, unseen rock embedded in the road. Suzy was jolted awake, her head cracking sharply against the wooden side panel of the carriage before she could brace herself.
"Ouch!!!" she exclaimed, her eyes flying open as she instinctively brought a hand to her throbbing temple. The pain was sharp and immediate, making her wince.
Noah who rode inside the carriage with her for security on these journeys, witnessed the impact. His face tightened with concern and anger. He thrust his head out of the window, his voice booming over the rumble of the wheels. "Aaron! Can you be more careful, man? You’ve hurt the Duchess! Watch the road!"
Aaron immediately reined in the horses, bringing the carriage to a more cautious, albeit bumpier, pace. "My sincerest apologies, Your Grace! And to you, Captain Noah!" his voice drifted back, strained with effort and embarrassment. "The road is unexpectedly treacherous today. There were heavy rains just yesterday, and it seems the recent passage of several heavily laden timber wagons from the northern forests has churned up the surface quite badly in this stretch. Forgive my incompetence, Your Grace. I should have anticipated this section would be worse for wear."
Suzy, rubbing the tender spot on her head, managed a weak smile. "It’s quite alright, Aaron," she called out, her voice a little shaky. "These things happen. But... isn’t this the same road we usually take when we’re going to the Chateau Valeré? I don’t recall it being quite this... rugged."
"Yes, Your Grace, it’s the very same road," Aaron confirmed. "It’s usually much smoother, but this past week has taken its toll, it appears. I’ll be sure to report it for urgent repair when we return."
"It’s fine, Aaron," Suzy replied, settling back against the cushions, though more gingerly this time. "Just please, do be more careful for the remainder of the journey."
"I will, Your Grace. My utmost care," Aaron assured her, his relief palpable.