Beneath The Veil of Deception 10
Episode 10: When The Storm Breaks Amidst Our Peace.
The next few weeks passed in a whirlwind of emotions. Zander was doing his best to connect with Jacinth without making her feel like she had to do anything she didn't want to.
Every small act—a quiet conversation, the bouquets of lilies, or an offer to walk together amidst being busy—was his way of telling her that he wanted her, not just as a wife but as a person.
But there was a distance he couldn’t bridge. She was kind in her responses, never dismissive, yet her warmth stopped at the surface.
The thought tugged at him—was she genuinely doing these, or was this just a facade? The Duchess, with her poised demeanour, seemed to play the role effortlessly, concealing her true emotions beneath layers of duty and decorum.
That's what hurt Zander the most...
Zander Von Edrington
Duchess, may I have a moment of your time? There’s something I want to... Tell you.
One afternoon—Jacinth came to a sudden halt, her ears catching the familiar sound of his voice. She glanced over to see Zander, whose outfit suggested he was going out—not for official work though. A hint of concern furrowed her brows. With a subtle nod, she replied gently.
Jacinth Ashbourne
Yes, of course, Your Grace.
Zander Von Edrington
I'm leaving for East Wainoundley.
Zander Von Edrington
There have been reports indicating a deterioration of landslide conditions attributed to recent rainfall. I have been requested to be present to facilitate mediation in addressing this situation.
Zander added, following Jacinth's concerned eyes. But he knows—it's not a 𝙧𝙚𝙦𝙪𝙚𝙨𝙩. Rather a plot.
Jacinth Ashbourne
Wainoundley? In this weather? It’s...
...𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘯'𝘵... She couldn't put her concern into words. He offers a faint smile, an attempt to reassure her.
Zander Von Edrington
I’ll take all precautions.
Jacinth's past few weeks were no different—The whirlwind of emotions. She didn’t blame Zander for their marriage; they were both caught up in a responsibility that was totally out of their control.
In fact, his actions over the weeks had shown her a side of him she hadn’t expected: considerate, patient, and remarkably gentle.
Yet, understanding didn’t make things easier. Zander seemed determined to win her, but she wasn’t sure what she had left to give. She wasn’t angry, but the weight of the situation lingered in her heart.
Still, she couldn’t deny that he was trying—trying in ways that made her question her own hesitations. And perhaps, that was what scared her most: the idea that she might one day soften, not because it was expected of her but because she wanted to. For now, though, she wasn’t ready to cross that line.
Zander Von Edrington
Jacinth...
He notices the emotions flickering across her face. Moving in a bit closer— he leans in to whisper. He lifts his hands to hold her face but pauses for a second and then decides against it.
Jacinth Ashbourne
Yes, I'm sorry, I was... When will you be back?
She asks absentmindedly, her voice trailing off as her eyes drift to the window, watching the rain cascade down.
Zander Von Edrington
I’ll send word once I arrive. Don't worry, 𝘱𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘦.
He offers a small smile, though it doesn’t quite reach his eyes. She doesn’t meet his eyes, a strange knot twists in her heart.
Jacinth Ashbourne
Be safe.
Zander watches Jacinth for a moment, noticing the quiet sadness in her demeanor. He doesn’t speak; instead, he quietly slips off his wedding ring...
Comments
Cara De Clare — Reverie! 🌈
Is it just me, or the episode was short? It seems shorter than the other episodes so far.
By the way, a plot? What did it mean? Is Zander really going away or is he pretending to? What's with him? He didn’t quite seem his usual self in this episode — and why would he take off his wedding ring? What's going on? Did I miss something?
I hope nothing tragic happens.
2025-03-19
1
ɖɛ۷ıι
No why---
2024-12-02
1