Chapter 38 - A Duchess Awakens at Thorne Estate

The rhythmic swaying motion lulled me into a state between sleep and wakefulness as Alaric carried me through the doors of what was now my home. I kept my eyes closed, not quite ready to face the reality of everything that had transpired. The warmth of his chest against my cheek felt oddly comforting after the tumultuous night we'd had.

"Welcome home, Your Grace," came a startled voice. "I wasn't expecting you back until—"

"Keep your voice down, Alistair," Alaric replied in a hushed tone. "She's sleeping."

I remained still, my face pressed against Alaric's firm chest, his heartbeat steady beneath my ear. Part of me felt guilty for pretending, but I needed these few moments to gather my thoughts.

"My apologies, Your Grace, but might I inquire as to who—"

"This is Isabella Thorne, my wife," Alaric stated matter-of-factly. "Formerly Isabella Beaumont."

The silence that followed was profound. I could almost feel the shock radiating from the man called Alistair.