Chapter 104 - 103: Christmas Break III (1/2)

Leonard seeing that Jack was driving a carriage rather than just riding a horse knew that Charlton must be inside.

”Charlton, come out. Don't pretend that you're not inside.”

Charlton having no choice stepped out of his carriage.

”Hey Leonard. Long time no see.” He replied. 'Does this mean that I already failed with my mission without even catching a glimpse of Serena?' he wondered. He was planning to hand the letter and wait for her. If he were just outside, he believed that at the very least, Serena will come out to meet him.

”I did tell you to stay away from my sister. What are you doing here?”

Charlton did not answer. What else would be the reason for him to be there?

Leonard sighed. His words will never get through his friend's thick skull. From the beginning he should have just nipped it at the bud. Anyway, what was done can not be undone. So, he beckoned him to follow. He hoped that if Charlton sees how sincere Geoffrey was being with Serena now, he would stop his pursuit.

”come with me.” Leonard beckoned Charlton to follow.

Charlton was surprised. Was Leonard going to help him?

--

”Geoffrey, I'm sorry. Last time at the ball was a mistake. I do not know what came over me, but I just don't see you that way.”

Geoffrey just smiled at her and didn't let her words dampen his mood. ”Serena, I understand. We haven't spent that much time together for you to feel that way about me. However, I believe that feelings could be cultivated through time. If you give me a chance, I will do my best to make you happy.”

Serena wanted to tell him no, but he looked so earnest. Besides, Charlton was not communicating with her at all. Perhaps it was really over between them? Should she just give Geoffrey a chance? Then she recalled her family and all the servants in their dukedom. They have been nothing but loving to her. If she were to break her engagement, they will be the ones to bear the repercussions. She would let each and every one of them down. How could she be so selfish?

Geoffrey looked at Serena in the eye as he asked. ”would you let me?”

Perhaps she should give him a chance. Give him the opportunity to win her over, to persuade her into love. Maybe she doesn't feel that way now, but she owes it to her family to at least try.

However, she also did not want to Ignore her gut, her instincts, her emotions and her heart. So, she only said, ”I will consider it.”

Geoffrey nodded his head and gave her a beaming smile. ”Thank you, Serena.”

--

Leonard led Charlton through the gates of their ducal home. The pathway from the gates to the palace was long, and Charlton observed that there were royal guards wearing the insignia of the crown patrolling the area.