The Duke’s Sinful Bride (Vows of Sin #5)

Chapter 22

CHAPTER 22

“ I s there something you need?” Yvette’s voice was soft as she stood by the vanity, the warmth of the fire flickering in the corner of her room.

She had just finished preparing for bed, the soft, silken nightgown already in place. She hadn’t expected company, and certainly not from Killian. Yet here he stood, framed in the doorway, looking at her with an expression she couldn’t quite decipher.

He shook his head slowly, his gaze lingering on her for a moment too long.

Then, he cleared his throat, stepping into the room.

“Maisie really loved her time riding today,” he said quietly, his voice sounding a little more strained than usual. “It was all she could talk about, even as I tucked her into bed.”

Yvette smiled, her heart warming at the thought of the little girl.

“Perhaps it wasn’t just the ride itself, but the sheer pleasure of leaving the estate’s walls. It must have been a welcome change for her.”

Killian folded his lips in thought, nodding slowly. Yvette could see the wheels turning in his mind, and for a moment, she wondered where this conversation was leading. She didn’t expect him to linger long, but something in his presence tonight made her feel like there was more he wanted to say.

She decided to press on, a thought forming in her own mind.

“Does Maisie ever visit the town?” she asked, turning slightly to face him.

His expression softened as he shook his head.

“Barely. I’m always too busy to take her, and the staff, or even her governess, would never take her out without my permission.”

His words were curt, almost matter-of-fact, but Yvette could sense the weight behind them. He’d never made the time to let his daughter experience the world outside the castle. And yet, Yvette couldn’t help but feel a little surprised by his admission.

She seized the opportunity, her idea falling into place with perfect timing.

“Well, while Maisie and I were out riding this morning, I saw the townspeople preparing for the fair. It struck me that it would be a good opportunity for Maisie to go out and enjoy herself. I also think it’ll be good for me too. I’ll get to meet the residents as their duchess—which is something I should have done a long time ago.”

Her voice was steady, but she couldn’t help but feel a small flutter in her chest at the thought.

Killian’s brow furrowed, and he looked away for a moment, his lips pursed as if weighing the idea. Yvette held her breath, her gaze unwavering as she waited for him to respond.

At last, he nodded slowly, taking a step closer to her.

“Ye may be right,” he said quietly. “It would do ye good to meet the people ye lead. I’ll allow it, but we must take care.” His eyes softened, his focus shifting to her face as he continued. “I don’t know how I’d cope with Maisie if you weren’t with me.”

Yvette sucked in a breath at his words, her pulse quickening as she felt the intensity of his gaze. He moved closer still, his hand reaching up to gently guide her face with his thumb and index finger, urging her to meet his eyes. She licked her lips instinctively, her gaze caught in his. There was an undeniable heat between them, a magnetic pull that neither could ignore.

Without another word, Killian leaned in, his lips capturing hers in a kiss that was both tender and fierce. Yvette’s hands moved to his back, her fingers pressing into the firm muscles beneath his shirt, urging him closer.

His hands cupped her face, his thumbs brushing across her cheeks as he deepened the kiss. The passion between them was palpable, a swirling desire, along with something deeper, more raw.

She pulled him toward the bed, wanting nothing more than to feel the weight of him against her, but just as she felt him begin to move with her, he pulled away. His breath was ragged, and he bit his lower lip, his eyes clouded with uncertainty.

“I… I need to go,” he said in a voice she didn’t recognize, a tone that was strangely distant.

Yvette’s heart skipped a beat, her hands still lingering in the air as if she could reach out and pull him back. She stared at him, both confusion and longing flooding her senses. But before she could say anything, he was already stepping back, his gaze drifting toward the door.

“Goodnight, Yvette,” he said, the words almost strangled, as though he couldn’t quite bring himself to say them.

With that, he turned and left, leaving Yvette standing there, her heart pounding in her chest. She could still taste him on her lips, still feel the electric pull between them. But now, as the door clicked softly shut behind him, she was left with nothing but a lingering sense of emptiness.

It was a Saturday, the day of the annual fair. The air in Braemore was filled with a crispness that announced the arrival of the much-anticipated event, and Yvette was making her way over to Maisie to tell her the good news about the fair.

“Maisie,” Yvette called from the doorway of her room, a mischievous smile tugging at the corners of her lips. The girl had been bouncing around the room, too excited to settle.

“Yes, Duchess?” Maisie’s voice rang out, bright and full of energy as she looked up at Yvette with wide eyes.

“Braemore Fair’s today,” Yvette said, her voice warm and teasing. “Would you like to go?”

Maisie’s eyes lit up instantly. She ran to Yvette, almost tripping over her own feet in her excitement.

“The fair? Oh, yes! Yes, yes! I’ve never been to the fair! I want to see the games and the animals, and the people!” Her voice bubbled with enthusiasm as she clutched Yvette’s hand. “We’ll go together, won’t we? Please?”

Yvette laughed softly, squeezing Maisie’s hand.

“Of course, we’ll go together. You’ll get to see all of it, and we’ll have a wonderful time. But first, you have to get ready. We’ll leave in an hour.”

With that, Maisie dashed into her closet, her energy matching her excitement. Yvette couldn’t help but smile as she watched the little girl run to her room. A gentle warmth spread through her chest. She could almost feel the thrill Maisie was experiencing, the anticipation of a world outside the castle walls.

Yvette turned, walking into her own room to prepare for the fair.

There had been something different in the air ever since her kiss with Killian a few nights ago. An unease that lingered between them, though she tried to ignore it.

Today, she had decided she would not let that discomfort ruin her enjoyment of the day. She would immerse herself in the fair, in the festivities, and not let the awkwardness of the past few days overshadow the present.

As Daisy helped Yvette dress, she asked, “Your Grace, are you looking forward to the fair?”

Yvette smiled. “Yes I am. I want to see what the people of Braemore are like, and experience them for myself.”

Daisy nodded.

“The fair is quite the spectacle. There are always games for the children, the livestock show, and of course, the music. But there are a few things worth checking out, especially for someone in your position.”

Yvette tilted her head, intrigued. “What should I be looking for, then?”

“Well,” Daisy began thoughtfully, “there’s a booth where they sell local handicrafts, and the people from the town always set up a stall for fresh fruit and pies. You might enjoy that. They’re known for their apricot tarts, Your Grace.”

Yvette chuckled, taking mental notes. “That does sound delightful.”

“Then,” Daisy continued, “there’s the ring toss. It’s a simple game, but I know Lady Maisie loves a challenge. She’ll enjoy that. And don’t forget the animals, particularly the horses. The breeders often bring in their finest stock, and you might find yourself a new favorite.”

“I’ll be sure to check out the horses,” Yvette said with a smile. “Thank you, Daisy. That’s helpful.”

Daisy beamed, adjusting the final touches of Yvette’s dress. “I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time, Your Grace.”

The afternoon had arrived, and the fair was already in full swing by the time Yvette, Maisie, and Killian set out from the castle.

The golden light of the sun bathed the landscape as they walked, and Yvette couldn’t help but take in the view of Braemore. She had seen the town from the windows, but there was something different about being out among the people, walking the cobblestone streets with Maisie at her side and Killian beside her.

Maisie, of course, could barely keep still, skipping along ahead of them as she eagerly pointed out every colorful banner or person she recognized. She was the very picture of joy, her energy infectious. It was clear she had no care in the world except for the fair before her.

Yvette smiled as she glanced over at Killian, who had a bemused expression on his face as he watched his daughter. The three of them were together—something that, in the moment, felt right despite the tension that lingered between them.

As they continued walking, Yvette glanced up at Killian.

“Do you ever attend the fair, or did you when you were younger?”

Killian’s lips quirked into a small, almost rueful smile.

“I didn’t, actually. I didn’t grow up in Braemore. My father wasn’t fond of the fair, so it wasn’t something we ever attended. It was only when I became duke that I began attending, though I’d only go near the end, just to make an appearance and give a speech. Then I’d retreat to the house, or… elsewhere.”

Yvette raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised. “Elsewhere? A bit of mystery, are we?”

He gave her a sly glance.

“I never much cared for the hustle and bustle of it all. The fair’s never been a thing for me, but it seems Maisie has made it hers already.”

She chuckled.

“Well, it’s only her first fair. There’s plenty of time to enjoy it.” She paused, looking at him. “If it’s your first time going early, then we should all enjoy it together. The fair is for the people, after all.”

Killian’s eyes softened slightly, and his lips curved up into a smile. Yvette felt a flutter in her chest at the sight of his smile. It was a rare thing, and she hadn’t realized how much she missed it until now.

“Very well,” he said, his voice warmer than it had been for some time. “We’ll enjoy it together.”

Yvette bit her lower lip, a flush creeping up her neck as she realized just how much she was enjoying this moment—the three of them, walking through the streets of Braemore, as a family.

The town square of Braemore had been transformed into a sight of festivity. Ribbons of bright, cheerful colors fluttered in the wind, strung from every post and tree, while lanterns hung overhead, casting a soft golden glow as the afternoon sun began to dip.

The air was filled with the sounds of laughter and music, the townspeople’s voices rising in song as they danced and mingled, a joyful noise of life.

Stalls lined the square, selling everything from sweet treats to handwoven trinkets, and the scent of roasted meats and baked goods wafted through the air, mingling with the earthy fragrance of fresh flowers. Children ran through the crowd, their laughter high and carefree, while adults chatted and bargained. The town was alive with warmth, the community in its element.

Yvette, Killian, and Maisie wandered through the festivities, taking in the lively scene. Maisie, full of excitement, bounced on the balls of her feet, her eyes wide with wonder. She wanted to be everywhere at once, running from one game to another, her small hands reaching for everything in sight.

“Papa, can I play?” she asked eagerly, tugging at Killian’s sleeve. Her little voice was full of enthusiasm, her face bright with anticipation.

Killian glanced at Yvette, a slight hesitation in his eyes before he answered, his hand still resting protectively on Maisie’s shoulder.

“Not yet, love. I do not want ye to get lost in all this crowd.”

Yvette placed her hand gently on his shoulder, a smile tugging at her lips.

“We’re in your Duchy, Killian,” she said, her tone light and reassuring. “If Maisie gets lost, she’ll be found before we even leave the town square.”

Killian’s lips pressed together, still uncertain, but he gave a slight nod, his gaze softening. “I suppose ye’re right.”

Before they could continue, an elderly couple approached them. Their faces, though warm, carried a faint frown, and their eyes rested upon Yvette with quiet scrutiny. Killian greeted them with a nod, calling them by name. The couple’s frown deepened, but their voices were kind, albeit firm.

“Is this our duchess?” the elderly woman asked, her tone neither harsh nor overly friendly, but there was a definite edge of disapproval.

“Yes,” Killian replied, his voice steady, though a hint of tension lingered in his jaw. “This is Lady Yvette, the Duchess of Braemore.”

The couple exchanged a glance, and the man spoke, his words polite but unmistakably pointed.

“We were expecting to see our new duchess among the people long before now. We’ve heard little of her presence among the residents.”

Yvette pressed her lips together, feeling the weight of their words. She looked down briefly, composing herself before answering.

“I don’t have an excuse,” she said softly, but with a sincerity that resonated in her voice. “I’ve been so focused on taking care of my new family that I neglected my larger family here in Braemore. It was an oversight, and for that, I apologize.”

The elderly couple exchanged a glance, their frowns slowly lifting, and though they said nothing more, their eyes softened.

“Well, it’s good to know you’ve been busy,” the woman said with a smile, her tone more welcoming now. “We’re glad to see you here, Your Grace.”

“Welcome to Braemore,” the man added, offering a nod.

As the conversation ended, other residents of Braemore approached, and Yvette was surrounded by well-wishers. The townspeople expressed their warm greetings, and with each smile and handshake, Yvette felt her place in the community slowly solidifying.

It was strange, this position she found herself in—both new and old at once—but she was determined to make it work. And for the first time since her arrival, she allowed herself to fully embrace the moment.

After a while, the family found themselves alone again. Maisie, now free of restraint, immediately bolted towards the children’s games, her excitement contagious. Killian hesitated, glancing at Yvette as if still unsure.

“You can let her go, Killian,” Yvette said, a teasing glint in her eye. “She’s not made of glass.”

Killian’s brows furrowed, but he relented, nodding as Maisie disappeared into the crowd of children.

Yvette couldn’t help but watch the little girl with a soft smile on her face. Yvette’s heart swelled at the sight, but her attention was quickly drawn back to reality when she heard a small cry.

“Oh no!” Yvette gasped, seeing Maisie stumble and fall to the ground, her little knees scraping the rough cobblestones. She was immediately on her feet, hurrying toward her, her heart racing with panic.

Killian was already there, his face tight with concern. He crouched beside Maisie, his large hands hovering over her scraped knees, his eyes frantic.

“Maisie! Does it hurt? Oh, Christ, she’s bleeding,” he said, his voice colored with worry and frustration.

Yvette knelt beside him, placing a hand gently on Killian’s arm to calm him. “Killian,” she said softly, her voice steady and comforting.

“She’s fine. Maisie, darling, are you hurt?” she asked, turning her attention to their daughter.

Maisie sniffled, her eyes wide with pain and embarrassment. “I’m okay, Duchess,” she whispered, her lip trembling.

Yvette smiled, brushing a few strands of hair from Maisie’s face.

“See? You’re fine.” She turned to Killian, her voice softening. “She’s a little scraped, but it’s nothing we can’t handle.”

Killian took a deep breath, his shoulders slumping in relief.

“I know, I just…” His voice trailed off, and Yvette could see the panic still lingering in his eyes. She squeezed his arm gently, offering him a reassuring smile.

“I know, Killian,” she murmured. “But she’s strong, just like her papa.”

Killian gave a small, rueful smile, brushing his thumb over Maisie’s cheek. “I suppose you’re right.” He looked up at Yvette, his eyes warm but still filled with concern. “I just don’t want anything to happen to her.”

“I know,” Yvette whispered back. “But she’ll be okay.”

With that, Killian carefully helped Maisie to her feet, and they all walked back toward the fair, the moment of panic fading into the background as the joy of the day continued to unfold around them.