Chapter four.

The Duke's grand household was abuzz with activity as guests gathered for breakfast. When Garet descended the staircase, he was met with the sight of a large, lavishly set dining table. He greeted the assembly with polite deference and took his seat. Across the table, Lady Delinda and her son, Edward, cast him unfriendly glances that went unnoticed. As Garet settled in, the Duke, Master Timothy, rose to introduce his son to their distinguished guests. He took the opportunity to boast of Garet's achievements abroad, speaking proudly of his return to settle down and, in time, prepare to assume the role of Duke.

Lady Delinda's expression soured at this announcement. She had other plans in mind, and they did not include Garet as the Duke's successor. Only her son, Edward, would inherit that title, she vowed to herself, and she began plotting accordingly.

With introductions complete, breakfast was finally served. A line of maids brought out an array of rich, assorted fare a meal befitting the wealth and status of the Duke's household. The lavish spread featured smoked kippers, freshly baked bread, preserves, cheeses, eggs, and slices of ham, all arranged with the utmost care. The guests were attended to with practiced efficiency, and among those present was Hazel, her modest attire belying her charm and beauty.

Garet's gaze found the maid from earlier as she moved gracefully around the table. She was the maid he'd noticed earlier, and, in this light, she appeared even more captivating and innocent. Hazel, feeling his eyes on her, glanced up, and their gazes met briefly. Her heart skipped a beat. My goodness, she thought, he's even more handsome than I remembered. She inwardly prayed that she wouldn't let herself be distracted by this dashing young man.

After a brief prayer of thanks, the guests began to eat, and conversation turned to matters of duty and alliance. Master Timothy took the opportunity to introduce the Washington family, who were seated nearby, and in particular, their daughter, Lady Elena a young woman of suitable age for marriage. He encouraged Garet to make her acquaintance, suggesting that a union between the Timothys and the Washingtons would bring great benefit to both families.

Garet, however, showed little interest in his father's hint, casting only a cursory glance in Lady Elena's direction. She was attractive, but she held no appeal for him, his heart was far from thoughts of matrimony and even farther from this contrived match. He had returned with a purpose, and it had nothing to do with arranged marriages.

As breakfast continued, various guests seized the chance to engage Garet in conversation, each hoping to earn the favor of the Duke's son and future heir. Lady Elena, sensing her opportunity, moved closer to Garet, attempting to draw him into conversation. Her efforts, however, were met with polite indifference, and eventually, she and the other ladies departed, attributing his coldness to fatigue from his travels.

Once the guests had left, the Duke addressed his sons. "Garet, Edward," he said with paternal warmth, "I trust you'll both find a way to get along. You were not close as boys, but now you're men, and someday you'll be tasked with ruling this estate together."

Edward, ever the actor, gave Garet a welcoming smile. "Welcome home, big brother. How have you been? It's been a long time, and we've missed you dearly. Much has changed, and I'd be happy to take you around the countryside so you can reacquaint yourself with everything."

Before he could continue, Lady Delinda feigned a cough, rising from her seat. "I'm feeling unwell," she murmured, casting a pointed look at Garet. "I'll be upstairs. Welcome home, Garet." With that, she departed, her eyes promising nothing good.

The Duke seemed pleased by Edward's offer, patting his sons on the shoulders before excusing himself. Once their father was out of earshot, Edward's demeanor shifted.

"So," Edward sneered, a cold smile twisting his lips. "You've got the nerve to come back, big brother… or should I say, step brother?" He chuckled darkly, a glint of malice in his eye.

Garet met Edward's gaze evenly, unruffled. "I was just waiting for the real you to emerge. This act of yours playing the dutiful brother was always suspicious. But of course, I know what you're truly capable of."

Edward smirked, leaning in. "Oh, indeed. And you should know that I will be Duke, not you. That title is mine by right, ever since the day you left the countryside, you left the title of Duke."

Garet's expression remained calm as he replied, "I've given you ample time to win Father's favor. Seems you haven't put in much effort how unfortunate. Perhaps you're as pathetic as you always were."

Fury flashed in Edward's eyes. He rose abruptly, fists clenched, ready to lash out. Garet stood his ground, his voice low and measured. "Control yourself, Edward. You're no longer a child, and Father wouldn't want this sort of behavior. Remember that."

With that, Garet turned and left, his steps composed as he headed to his chambers. Behind him, Edward called out, his voice laced with venom. "Enjoy your high and mighty attitude while you can, dear brother. When I become Duke, I'll be sure to put you in your place."

As Garet strode down the corridor, he smirked to himself. This was just the beginning and he was more than ready for the challenges that lay ahead.