Chapter 173

As night fell upon the town, Madeline walked around inspecting the manor as she awaited Victor's return. 

"Emmett, please have some maids ready to draw my husband a bath when he returns. He is a bit late," Madeline said, worried about his late return. "Did he go somewhere other than to a friend?"

"War might be upon us, Lady Ambrose. The lord informed the guards to be ready for any attack and he spoke about a ship. For all my years of knowing the lord, he must be doing a lot of planning to keep you safe," Emmett said in the hope of calming her fears.

"That is possible. There are some close friends and relatives he would want to prepare for anything. Let us hope it does not come to war. It would be upsetting to have to leave our home and quiet life. I heard there were plenty of gifts put away for Rose," said Madeline.