(MSRP: 2.0000)
Desperate to escape her estranged husband and a home enshrouded with death and despair, Julia flees in the middle of the night. Little does she know that her determined husband is in pursuit. Along the journey, she discovers a telling revelation. But will it be enough to banish the ghosts of the past and soothe her troubled heart?
Rosette
18 Pages Sweet
Excerpt:
How does one leave a husband?
Julia was certain Mrs. Litchfield’s School for Young Ladies in London never discussed such a procedure. But then, Julia had realized long ago that Mrs. Litchfield’s lessons had centered on skills expected of a gently bred English lady; how to move confidently among the upper crust of society, attract a husband, manage a household, organize dinner parties and soirees, and other lady-like pursuits.
No mention of what to do to save a marriage.
Or end a marriage.
Her own reasoning would have to serve her now. Pushing back her melancholy, she drew a steadying breath and clasped her shaking hands. Since she was leaving in the middle of the night, taking a trunk would never do. She’d have to bring very little. Essentials.
After retrieving a valise, she opened it on her bed. She stared at it where it lay empty. Empty like her heart. Empty like her womb. Empty like her marriage.
Julia forced her mind back to the task at hand.
Essentials.
She grabbed a nightgown and folded it carefully before placing it in the bottom of the bag.
Essentials.
A hairbrush, comb, toothbrush and toothpowder followed. The gilded hand mirror she set back down. It might break in the coach ride. Besides, she no longer cared about her appearance. Had ceased to care months ago. Nothing she did ever turned her husband’s head anymore.
She gave herself a sharp mental shake.
Essentials.
A change of clothes, including a dress that buttoned up the front since she would not have her maid’s assistance. Her stays, of course, would be unmanageable. She hoped her shift, gown, and pelisse would preserve her modesty. Her valise bulged.
Her heart remained empty.
