### Chapter 3: A Gathering of Trust

The afternoon sun cast long shadows over Ashbrook Manor, adding a somber hue to the otherwise vibrant estate. Genevieve had spent the morning contemplating the Duke of Ashcroft's proposal and its implications. She knew she needed advice, and there were few whose counsel she trusted implicitly.

Her first visit was to Mrs. Thornton. The housekeeper had been with the family for decades and possessed a wealth of wisdom. Genevieve found her in the kitchens, overseeing the preparation for the evening meal.

"Mrs. Thornton, may I have a word with you?" Genevieve asked, her voice steady despite the turmoil within.

The older woman looked up from her work, her eyes softening with concern. "Of course, my lady. What troubles you?"

Genevieve led her to a quiet corner of the kitchen, away from the bustling activity. "The Duke of Ashcroft visited me this morning. He proposed an alliance, possibly even a marriage."

Mrs. Thornton's eyes widened slightly, but she quickly composed herself. "That is a significant proposal, my lady. What do you think of it?"

"I'm not sure," Genevieve admitted, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "The Duke is powerful and influential, but I can't shake the feeling that there may be hidden motives."

Mrs. Thornton nodded thoughtfully. "The Duke is known for his strategic mind. Such an alliance would certainly benefit him as well. But remember, my lady, any decision you make must be for your benefit and that of Ashbrook Manor."

Genevieve smiled, grateful for the housekeeper's straightforward advice. "Thank you, Mrs. Thornton. Your counsel is always invaluable."

Next, Genevieve sought out Thomas, the estate manager. He was overseeing the planting of new crops when she found him. Tall and rugged, with a deep understanding of the land and its people, Thomas had been her father's right hand and now served her in the same capacity.

"Thomas, I need to speak with you about something important," Genevieve said, approaching him.

Thomas wiped his brow and turned to her, his expression serious. "Of course, Lady Genevieve. What is it?"

She recounted her conversation with the Duke, watching Thomas's face carefully for his reaction. He listened intently, his brow furrowing as she spoke.

"The Duke's proposal is certainly intriguing," Thomas said after a moment. "But I share your caution. The Duke is a shrewd man. Any alliance with him will come with expectations and obligations."

Genevieve nodded. "That's what worries me. I don't want to bind myself or the estate to something that could be detrimental in the long run."

Thomas placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "You have a good head on your shoulders, Lady Genevieve. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to seek out more information about the Duke's intentions."

Feeling slightly more assured, Genevieve thanked Thomas and made her way back to the manor. There was one more person whose advice she sought, someone who had been a guiding light through her darkest times: her old governess, Miss Eliza Harper.

Miss Harper had retired to a small cottage on the estate grounds but remained a close confidante. Genevieve found her in the garden, tending to a bed of roses.

"Genevieve, my dear," Miss Harper greeted her warmly. "What brings you here today?"

Genevieve embraced the older woman, feeling a wave of comfort wash over her. "I need your advice, Miss Harper. The Duke of Ashcroft visited this morning with a proposal."

As they walked through the garden, Genevieve explained the situation. Miss Harper listened without interruption, her eyes thoughtful.

"The Duke is a man of great influence," Miss Harper said finally. "But power can be both a gift and a curse. You must consider what you truly want, Genevieve. Not just for the estate, but for yourself."

Genevieve sighed. "I want to protect Ashbrook Manor and honor my father's legacy. But I also want to be free to make my own choices."

Miss Harper smiled gently. "Then follow your heart, but do so with wisdom. Seek to understand the Duke's true intentions, and make your decision from a place of strength, not fear."

With the advice of those she trusted most, Genevieve felt a renewed sense of clarity. She returned to the manor as the evening shadows lengthened, determined to find out more about the Duke's intentions and to navigate her path with caution and resolve.

The following days would bring further challenges, but Genevieve was ready. She would not be rushed into any decision, and she would protect her family's legacy with all the strength and wisdom she could muster.

As she stood in her father's study once more, Genevieve looked out over the estate with a sense of purpose. The road ahead was uncertain, but she was not alone. With trusted allies by her side and her own inner resolve, she would face whatever came next with the courage of her ancestors.

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