章 64: Get Up!
Back at the Home Office
Dominic sat at the sofa, flipping through a report book without glancing up. The dim light from the window cast a warm glow over the room, highlighting the tension in the air. "Where did you say you found Evangeline earlier this morning?" he asked Frederick, his tone steady but curious.
"It seems like she was going for a picnic," Frederick replied, leaning back against the wall with a sigh. "She was holding that man's arm, and a servant was carrying a basket following them."
Dominic paused, his fingers momentarily halting on the page. He raised his head, his eyes narrowing. "Oh really?" he replied, a hint of irritation creeping into his voice. He sighed, running a hand through his hair. "She has time for a picnic. This silly girl is complicated and a lot of work..." The thought nagged at him, and he snapped his fingers, the sharp sound echoing in the quiet room.
"Caleb!" he called, his voice carrying an authority that demanded immediate attention.
Caleb, stepped forward, bowing his head. "My Lord," he said, his voice respectful yet eager.
Frederick poured tea into his cup, his eyes flickering between the two men. He could sense the tension rising and felt a hint of amusement at Dominic's apparent jealousy.
"Fetch Evangeline immediately and bring her here this instant," Dominic commanded, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Caleb nodded, his expression serious. "Yes, my Lord. Right away." He turned on his heel and strode out of the room, the sound of his footsteps echoing down the hallway.
Once Caleb was gone, Frederick crossed his arms and leaned against the desk, a playful grin forming on his lips. "You know, for someone who claims to be indifferent, you certainly seem invested in her outings."
Dominic shot him a sharp look, the corners of his mouth twitching as he struggled to maintain his composure. "I'm not concerned about her outings," he retorted, though the defensiveness in his voice betrayed him. "It's her choices that concern me. She could be focusing on these important studies instead of gallivanting around with that man."
Frederick chuckled softly, his amusement growing. "Ah, but perhaps she's seeking a little freedom from your expectations, Dominic. Everyone needs a break now and then, even a future duchess."
Dominic frowned, crossing his arms as he leaned back in his chair. "Freedom? From what? The responsibilities of our lives? I won't allow her to forget who she is, nor will I stand by and watch her get distracted by frivolous pursuits."
Frederick raised an eyebrow, his smile fading slightly. "Just be careful not to stifle her spirit. You may find that the more you try to control her, the more she will resist."
Dominic clenched his jaw, his gaze drifting back to the report book. "We'll see about that," he muttered, determination lacing his voice. "But right now, I need her back here to discuss matters that truly matter."
The atmosphere in the room shifted as Dominic's resolve took over, leaving Frederick to ponder the delicate balance between duty and desire that Dominic seemed to be navigating.
Back at the Picnic
As Evangeline and Richard kissed, the soft rustle of grass under Caleb's feet broke the tranquility of the moment. Evangeline opened her eyes and, to her surprise, spotted a familiar face watching them from behind a nearby tree. "Caleb? He's different from before..." she thought, noting how he had matured since she last saw him.
Clearing his throat, Caleb quickly turned his face away, a deep blush creeping onto his cheeks. "I'm sorry... I... I didn't see anything, My Lady," he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. He kept his gaze averted, the awkwardness palpable in the air. "Ahem... Master Dominic sent for you. He said there's something you need to do..." He sighed, a mixture of reluctance and duty weighing on his shoulders.
Evangeline pulled away from Richard, her heart still racing. "I see..." she said, her fingers instinctively clenching the fabric of Richard's shirt, as if seeking comfort in the moment. "Right now? It was my choice to learn from him, but does he think he can call me whenever he wants? Ugh, what am I saying? I'm really foolish. Dominic's insufferable..." The internal battle of her thoughts played across her face as she took a deep breath, trying to compose herself.
Richard turned his gaze to Caleb, sensing the tension. "It's best if you come now, My Lady. You'll be in trouble if you don't, and I'll be in trouble," Caleb urged, blinking rapidly to avoid meeting Evangeline's eyes. His anxiety was palpable, and he shifted nervously from one foot to the other" For goodness' sake... I don't want them to fight again, and I won't have my internal peace," he thought, glancing between Evangeline and Richard.
Evangeline, noticing the worry etched on Caleb's face, smiled reassuringly. "You won't be in trouble, Caleb. Besides, you look good without the glasses," she giggled, the sound lightening the mood. Standing up from Richard's thighs, she reached for her hat, the sun glinting off her hair as she adjusted it.
Caleb's face brightened at her compliment, a shy grin breaking through his earlier embarrassment. "Thank you, My Lady," he said, his voice steadier now, bolstered by her kindness.
Richard watched the exchange with a hint of amusement, his own annoyance fading. "You've got a way with words, Evangeline," he remarked, leaning back slightly. "But do you really think Dominic is going to take your absence lightly?"
Evangeline rolled her eyes, the playful spark returning to her demeanor. "Let him try," she replied, her confidence rekindled. "I'm not about to let him dictate my life—or my lessons." With that, she turned to Caleb wearing her hat.
"My Lady, can we go now?" Caleb asked, turning his face toward her and bowing his head slightly. Evangeline picked up the nylon bag filled with cookies, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Well... I'll tell you a secret..." she said, leaning in close to whisper in Caleb's ear. "I'm stronger than your Master." The words left her lips with seriousness causing Caleb to blush deeply, his cheeks turning a shade of crimson.
Evangeline pulled back with a teasing smile. "Also, take this. I was enjoying the breeze until you ruined the mood. This is for you." She handed him the bag of cookies before walking past him, her expression a mix of annoyance and playful affection.
"Ah, My Lady... isn't this too much? I disturbed you," Caleb said staring at the cookies in surprise, his heart racing at her gesture.
"Yes, they are for you! Finish them all and do not share. Tell Dominic I'll be a bit late; I need to change before I join him," she replied, a sigh escaping her lips. There was a hint of exasperation in her voice, revealing the inner conflict she felt about her obligations.
"I'm doing this so that I can learn from you fully and use my knowledge to overthrow you, and for Caleb's sake, for ruining my mood", she thought, her fingers clenching into a fist as determination filled her.
"Richard, let's go... Help me pack up," she instructed, her tone shifting to one of authority. Richard nodded, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth as he stood up, eager to assist her.
He began packing up the food and other items they had brought with them into the basket, his movements efficient yet casual. As he worked, he couldn't help but glance at Evangeline, admiring her fiery spirit and the way she navigated her relationships with those around her.
"Are you really going to let Dominic think he can boss you around?" he asked, a teasing lilt in his voice as he looked over at her.
Evangeline shot him a playful glare, her lips curling into a smirk. "Oh, I have plans for him. I might even let him think he's in charge for a little while longer."
Richard chuckled, shaking his head. "Just don't let him get too comfortable. We both know how he can be."
As they finished packing, Evangeline's gaze drifted to the horizon, a sense of determination settling in her heart. She was ready to take charge of her own destiny, and with each passing moment, she felt more equipped to handle whatever challenges lay ahead.
An Hour Later
Dominic heard a knock on the door, raising his head just as Frederick stood behind him. "It must be Evangeline," he thought, and he called out, "Come in." Then he refocused on the report book he had been studying.
The doors swung open, and Evangeline stepped inside, her glass heels clicking rhythmically against the polished floor. She wore a stunning silver lace mid-length dress, off-the-shoulder, with a deep V-line that accentuated her figure. The lace cape draped gracefully, reaching just to her shins. She had applied light makeup, with delicate ear cuffs glinting in the light, and a small locket resting against her collarbone. Her hair was tied into a high ponytail, the small fringe brushing lightly against her ear as she moved.
Dominic's gaze instinctively shifted toward her, admiration flickering in his eyes. His cheeks flushed slightly at the sight of her, but he quickly cleared his throat, attempting to maintain his composure. "There's some reading for you to do. Have a seat..." he said, diverting his focus back to the report book.
Frederick, noticing Evangeline's entrance, couldn't help but be impressed. He straightened his posture and smiled warmly. "Ah, Lady Evangeline... you're stunning today. We couldn't chat earlier; I was thinking if we could have a cup of coffee before I leave..."
Evangeline, however, ignored Frederick as if he didn't exist. She walked purposefully toward the study table, brushing past Dominic with a graceful confidence that made him raise an eyebrow in surprise.
As she pulled the chair out and sat down, she moved her gaze to Dominic directly, folding her arms with an air of authority. "What do I need to do? Bring it here," she instructed, her voice steady and assertive.
Frederick was mesmerized, caught in a spell of her confidence and beauty. He felt a blush creep onto his cheeks, like a lovesick fan witnessing their idol. He stood rooted to the spot for a moment, captivated by how effortlessly she commanded the room, Dominic observed her closely without a word.
"Just tell me what needs to be done. I'm ready to get to work," she replied, her eyes sparkling with determination.
Dominic watched the exchange, a mixture of admiration and frustration brewing within him. He couldn't help but feel a growing frustration for her seating on that seat and shakes his head.
Dominic stared at Evangeline with a serious expression, ignoring Frederick's reaction and maintaining an indifferent demeanor. Dropping the report book onto the table, he advanced toward her. "What do you think you're doing?" he asked, his voice cold and measured as he glared at her.
Evangeline met his gaze, her confidence unwavering, but the tension in the air was palpable. Frederick, sensing the mounting pressure between them, let out a nervous laugh. "Ahem... Oh boy, I have to get going now. You two probably won't even notice me, but farewell! Enjoy your day, and goodbye… Master Dominic, we'll see each other at the meeting," he stammered, picking up his portfolio in a hurry.
As he exited the room, Caleb bowed his head, wishing Frederick farewell. Once the door closed behind him, the atmosphere shifted, leaving just Dominic and Evangeline in the office.
"Get up," he ordered, his voice clipped as he dipped his hands into his pockets. "Your spot is over there." He tilted his head toward the chair where Caleb used to sit, his tone brokering no argument.
Evangeline opened her mouth to protest, but Dominic continued, "Caleb, can you please excuse us? I need to talk with my wife."
Caleb nodded, sensing the charged atmosphere. He quickly left the office, shutting the door behind him with a soft click that echoed in the silence that followed.
Dominic turned his gaze back to Evangeline, his expression growing more detached. "I don't appreciate being interrupted," he said, his voice devoid of warmth. The sudden shift in his attitude sent a chill through the room, and Evangeline felt the weight of his cold indifference pressing down on her.
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