Epilogue

 

The Duke Who Loved Me

 

 

 

 

 

The following months few by in a blur. So much had transpired that Anna found herself struggling to keep up. Yet with the help of her mother-in-law, she was able to circumvent her new position.

Colin purchased the workhouse from Mr. Harrison, which he hired Thomas to run. Thomas proved to be a surprisingly efficient and worthy taskmaster. Not only did the working conditions improve, but so did the wages for the workers. This, in turn, improved production.

Another improvement made was to the cottage. The broken windows were replaced, the roof no longer leaked, and Henry had no need to complain about hunger again.

Christian also was able to extend the stable, which allowed him to house more horses. He even considered hiring help.

Later, Anna stood with Colin outside the dressmaker’s shop in London, just as she had many months before.

“You know,” Colin said, “now that you’re a duchess, they’ll come rushing to your side to grovel at your feet.”

Anna laughed. “Your mother reminds me of it often. Not a day goes by that she does not mention the benefits of my new title.”

She and her mother-in-law had become friends of sorts. Most days were spent in training, and Anna found she enjoyed it. Although the dowager duchess expressed her opinion whether it was requested or not, she also raised no fuss if anyone disagreed with her.

They resumed their stroll, acknowledging the nods and smiles that came their way. Anna was becoming accustomed to the attention, and although she did not mind, it was the fact that a new duke now possessed the title and guided the Remington Family that made her proud. His name was Colin, and Anna adored him.

“We’ve come a long way since we were here last,” Colin said. “I’m just glad my cheeks are not stained with dirt this time.”

Anna laughed. “I’m thankful that I don’t have to worry that a barmaid will snatch you away from me.”

The doorman at the restaurant where they were to dine opened the door for them, but Colin stopped and turned to Anna. “I do love you, you know.”

“I do know,” she replied. “And I love you. Now, shall we eat?”

Once inside, a steward took their outer garments. The headwaiter led them into the dining room, and Anna could not help but smile upon seeing her brothers waiting for them, all in their new suits.

Anna stifled a laugh. Henry pulled at his collar, and Christian sat so rigid one would have thought him a statue. Thomas, however, sat with his head held high, just as he always did. Colin had sent for them so they could all enjoy time together in London before Anna and he left for their belated honeymoon.

They all bolted to their feet when Anna and Colin approached.

“This suit’s itchy,” Henry said. “But Thomas said I shouldn’t complain, so I won’t.”

Anna did laugh this time as she embraced him. “Well, you certainly look handsome, even if it itches.”

“There they are!”

Anna turned to find Miss Caroline navigating the many tables. She wore a red dress and a large hat with a red ribbon that hung down her back. “Colin. Anna.” She kissed each on the cheek and then pulled at the fingers of her gloves as she added, “There are so many unsavory characters in London that I feared for my life on my way here. But I feel safer now.” She turned and smiled at Christian. “Much safer.”

Christian bowed to her. “Fear not, my lady. No harm will come to you when I’m around.”

“Such a gentleman,” Miss Caroline said, her cheeks turning pink.

“Perhaps we should sit,” Colin said, ushering Miss Caroline to her chair. “I’m sure young Henry is hungry, are you not?”

“Very!” Henry replied, making everyone laugh.

As they shared in whatever stories came to mind, Anna studied her brothers. They had changed and yet remained the same in so many ways, and for that, she was glad.

When her gaze fell on Colin, her heartbeat quickened. She had so much love for him, the world could never contain it. Her dream had always been to escape the fate that had befallen every other Silverstone before her. Although one would believe it was the money Colin had that saw that happen, it was not.

Colin had shown Anna one could sacrifice everything for love. It was why she had agreed to marry Mr. Harrison— for the love she had for her brothers. And why Colin had been willing to jeopardize his relationship with his mother and defy the expectations of the aristocracy— for the sake of his love for her.

It was that same love that caused her heart to beat with a new rhythm, for above all else, her dreams had come true.

Brought about by Colin, the duke who loved her.

 

 

 

 

 

Thank you for reading The Duke Who Loved Me. Find out what happens between Evan, Lord Westlake and a woman he once scorned in the next book, The Baron Time Forgot.