Chapter 46: The Duty Of The Heir (Book 3): Chapter 46

Presley Estates, Wesbury

The grand terrace is alive with chatter, the soft clinking of silverware on porcelain, and the sweet scent of blooming flowers from the nearby garden. My eyes drift over the guests, and I catch sight of Mariah Bannerman, looking regal as always, with her mother in tow. The sunlight catches the sheen of their dresses, making them stand out even more.

Leaning over to Trina, I whisper, ‘Heard about Aisling?’

Trina, her eyebrows furrowing delicately, leans closer. ‘No, what’s the latest?’

‘She’s in Spring City,’ I reply, a note of irritation clear in my voice. ‘Some family luncheon took precedence over this.’

Trina’s lips purse, her reaction a mirror to my own sentiment. ‘How… inconsiderate. Especially today.’

‘And here I thought I’d have to face her biting remarks.’ I sigh, though relief sneaks into my tone. Aisling’s absence might be a blessing in disguise.

There’s a bitter laugh that escapes me before I can stop it.

‘Aisling’s been distant lately. Thinks we’re all against her or something.’

‘That’s just disrespectful,’ Trina comments, her tone laced with disapproval.

‘Exactly,’ I agree, feeling a mix of irritation and relief. ‘To be honest, I’m glad she’s not here. We’ve been clashing a lot.’

Trina looks at me, concerned. ‘Does the matriarch know about this?’

I shrug, not wanting to delve into that mess. ‘Let’s not go there. How’s Mariah doing? She seems to be enjoying herself.’

Her face brightens slightly. ‘Yeah, she ran into a friend of hers.’

‘Why didn’t you let Simone come to the brunch?’

She hesitates, looking uneasy. ‘I thought Aisling would be here, and Duke… well, it might have been awkward.’

I ponder over her words. ‘I’m not sure Aisling even knows about Simone.’

Trina raises an eyebrow. ‘Something new come up?’

I shake my head, the question lingering in my mind since last night. ‘Just thinking… do you think Simone would consider being a second wife?’