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Two years had passed since Claire and Ernest had wed, and standing in front of the Royal Palace, Claire could hardly believe how much had changed. The grandeur of the palace itself, with its towering columns and gleaming windows, did little to distract her from the significance of the day. Beside her stood Lady Florence, dressed in the finest silk gown of pale lavender, adorned with delicate pearls. The girl—no, the young woman—was about to be formally presented to the queen. Claire smiled softly, pride swelling in her chest. Florence had come such a long way, and Claire felt an overwhelming love for her, as though she were her own daughter.
Florence fidgeted with her gloves, her nerves apparent despite her outward poise. “You mustn’t worry, dear,” Claire whispered, leaning closer. “You look radiant, and everything will go smoothly. The queen will be most impressed.”
Florence turned to Claire, her eyes wide. “Do you really think so?”
Claire nodded. “I have no doubt.”
As they moved forward, joining the queue of young debutantes, Claire couldn’t help but reflect on how different Florence was from the girl she had first met. The memory of that snowy night—when Florence had recklessly fled to meet Victor Tuberville—flickered in her mind. How far they had come since then. Florence had matured, shedding the wild, impulsive streak that had once threatened to compromise her reputation. Now, she was composed, graceful, and ready to take her place in society.
They inched closer to the grand hall where the queen awaited, and as Claire glanced into the crowd, she caught sight of Ernest. Her heart lifted instantly. He stood tall, his dark hair touched with a slight wave, his broad shoulders proud and strong in his formal attire. Their eyes met, and Claire smiled—a smile that held all the love and warmth she felt for him. After two years of marriage, she was still as smitten as the day they had first met.
Ernest gave her a subtle nod of encouragement, his eyes gleaming with affection and pride. In that moment, Claire felt as though the world was perfectly aligned. She had a wonderful husband, a home filled with love, and a young woman who had grown to feel like her own daughter.
“Next,” the usher announced, bringing Claire back to the present.
Florence took a deep breath, and Claire placed a reassuring hand on her arm. Together, they stepped forward into the grand room where the queen awaited, resplendent in her royal finery. The hall was magnificent, with gilded walls and chandeliers casting a soft, golden glow. The gathered lords and ladies of the ton watched closely, their eyes following Florence’s every movement. This was her moment—her introduction into society as a young lady of stature.
Claire whispered, “Hold your head high, Florence. This is your time to shine.”
Florence lifted her chin, her steps sure as they approached the throne. With a graceful curtsy, she presented herself before the queen, and Claire, standing just behind, felt her heart swell with pride. The queen’s gaze rested upon Florence for a moment, her discerning eyes taking in the young lady’s beauty and poise. Claire held her breath as the queen nodded approvingly, a subtle yet clear sign that Florence had passed this most crucial test. A soft murmur rippled through the onlookers, the ton’s approval palpable in the air.
Florence rose from her curtsy with the elegance that Claire had always known she was capable of. Her composure remained steady, even as they turned to make their exit from the throne room. Claire could see the tension in Florence’s shoulders ease, and a small, triumphant smile played on her lips.
“You did wonderfully,” Claire whispered as they made their way back down the grand corridor.
Florence exhaled, relief evident in her expression. “I thought my heart might leap out of my chest. But you were right, Claire. It was not nearly as frightening as I imagined.”
Claire smiled warmly. “You’ve made us all proud. Now the true fun begins—your first season awaits.”
As they stepped into the dazzling light of the afternoon, the grandeur of the occasion finally settled around them. Carriages lined the street, and elegantly dressed guests milled about, discussing the debutantes they had just witnessed. Among them, Claire spotted Ernest again, this time standing near the entrance to the ballroom where the debutante ball would be held later that day.
He approached them with a broad smile, his gaze fixed on Florence, but then it shifted to Claire, softening with a look that always made her heart flutter. “Well done, Lady Florence,” he said with an approving nod. “Your curtsy was impeccable, and the queen seemed quite pleased.”
Florence blushed at the praise. “Thank you, my lord. I could not have done it without Claire’s guidance.”
Ernest turned his gaze back to his wife, his eyes twinkling with affection. “I’ve no doubt of that.”
As they moved toward the carriages to depart for the afternoon’s ball, Ernest fell into step beside Claire. He slipped his arm around her waist, drawing her close, and leaned in to speak softly, so only she could hear.
“My darling, are you sure you should be out in Society today, given your condition?” His tone was playful, yet there was a note of concern that only a loving husband would understand.
Claire chuckled, glancing up at him with a teasing smile. “Ernest, I am not yet showing, and I feel perfectly fine. Besides, I could not miss Florence’s debut for anything in the world.”
He raised an eyebrow, still keeping her close. “I suppose that’s true, but as your husband and your physician, I must insist you take care.”
“I assure you, I am taking care,” Claire said, her voice filled with warmth. “But I want to be here for Florence. This is her moment, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
Ernest nodded, though his protective nature still shone through. “Very well. But don’t think I won’t be keeping a close eye on you during the ball.”
Claire laughed, leaning into his side as they walked toward the waiting carriage. “I wouldn’t expect anything less.”
The afternoon passed quickly, and soon they found themselves at the grand debutante ball, the room filled with swirling gowns, lively conversation, and the soft strains of a string quartet. Claire marveled at the transformation of the space, the glittering chandeliers casting a golden glow over the guests. The ton had turned out in full, eager to see and be seen, especially with so many young ladies making their debuts.
Florence stood at the edge of the dance floor, surrounded by a small circle of admirers, her eyes alight with excitement. She looked radiant, her earlier nerves completely vanished, replaced by a youthful confidence that suited her well.
“She looks so happy,” Claire murmured to Ernest as they stood together, watching Florence from across the room.
Ernest nodded, his gaze warm as it lingered on his cousin. “She’s come a long way. I can hardly believe this is the same girl who once ran off into the night, chasing after a rogue.”
Claire smiled, shaking her head at the memory. “Neither can I. She’s grown so much, and I couldn’t be more proud.”
Ernest turned his attention fully to Claire, his expression softening. “Speaking of first seasons, what was yours like? If you could go back in time, would you do anything differently?”
Claire considered his question, her mind drifting back to those distant days. “My first season…” she began, her voice thoughtful. “It was exciting, but also filled with uncertainty. I didn’t know then what I know now.”
“And what do you know now, my love?” Ernest asked, his tone gentle, his eyes searching hers.
Claire’s lips curved into a smile. “That everything I went through led me to you. If I could change anything, I wouldn’t—because now I have you, and Florence, and everything I could ever want.”
Ernest’s hand tightened around hers, his thumb brushing softly over her knuckles. “You have given me more than I ever thought possible, Claire. You’ve made this life more than just titles and estates. You’ve filled it with love and meaning.”
For a moment, they stood there, lost in each other’s gaze, oblivious to the bustling ball around them. Then a burst of laughter brought their attention back to the dance floor, where Florence was being led onto the floor by a handsome young lord. She moved with such grace and confidence, her lavender gown twirling with each step as they began the dance.
Claire and Ernest exchanged a look, the pride they felt for Florence mirrored in their expressions.
“She’s blossomed,” Claire said quietly, her heart swelling as she watched the young couple.
“She has,” Ernest agreed, his voice low and filled with emotion. “And we have done well by her, haven’t we? Like two proud parents.”
Claire rested her head against his shoulder, feeling the warmth of his presence. “Yes, Ernest. We have.”
They stood there together, watching Florence as the music carried her across the floor, both content and proud. The room was alive with the soft hum of conversation and the gentle swish of gowns, but Claire found herself growing tired despite the lively atmosphere. She stifled a yawn, hoping Ernest wouldn’t notice, but of course, he did.
Ernest chuckled softly, his arm wrapping around her shoulders. “I see that, my dear. As much as you’ve enjoyed yourself today, I believe it’s time I followed through on my earlier warning.”
Claire tilted her head, raising an eyebrow in playful defiance. “And what warning might that be, Lord Bannerdown?”
“That, as your husband and physician, I must insist that you retire early.” His tone was teasing, but there was an undeniable protectiveness in his voice. “You may not be showing yet, but I know you’re feeling the weight of this day.”
Claire smiled, resting her hand on her abdomen for a brief moment. “Perhaps you’re right. It has been a long day, but I didn’t want to miss a second of it.”
“And I wouldn’t have asked you to,” Ernest said gently, brushing a loose curl from her forehead. “But now it’s time to think of your own well-being.”
Before Claire could respond, a familiar voice interrupted. “Have you two already decided to make an escape?” It was Winnie, beaming as she approached them, a mischievous twinkle in her eye.
“Not just yet, but soon,” Claire admitted with a warm smile. “I can’t seem to keep up with this crowd anymore.”
Winnie laughed. “Well, you deserve a rest after all the excitement of today. Besides, you have more important things to think about now.” She winked knowingly at Claire’s midsection.
“Oh, and speaking of important things,” Ernest added, turning to Claire with a grin. “Winnie’s latest novel has just been published, hasn’t it? I seem to recall that someone in particular has not missed a single one of her books.”
Claire’s eyes lit up. “Winnie, is that true? Another novel already?”
Winnie’s grin widened, her eyes sparkling with pride. “Indeed, it is. It just arrived at Haberdasher’s this morning, and I dare say it’s already causing a stir.”
Claire laughed, a wave of excitement washing over her. “I must get my hands on it as soon as possible. You know I’ve been following every one of your works.”
“I believe you’ll enjoy this one,” Winnie said, her tone full of meaning. “It’s a bit different from the last, but I think it will speak to you in ways you don’t expect.”
“Well, now I’m more curious than ever,” Claire replied, her tiredness momentarily forgotten. “I’ll be reading it the moment I’m back home.”
Ernest leaned in, whispering playfully, “After you’ve had your rest, of course.”
Claire smiled, nodding in agreement. “Of course, my love.”
Winnie excused herself with a quick wave, leaving Claire and Ernest standing together once more. The ball continued around them, but all Claire could focus on was the quiet joy of the moment—Florence’s success, their growing family, and the life they had built together.
Ernest pressed a soft kiss to her temple. “Let’s go home, Claire. The future awaits, and I want to spend every moment of it by your side.”
Claire smiled up at him, her heart full. “And I with you, Ernest. Always.”
OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 5 FREEBIES FOR YOU!
Grab my new series, "Love and Secrets of the Ton", and get 5 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!
Hello my dears, I hope you enjoyed the book and the Extended Epilogue! I will be waiting for your comments here. Thank you 🙂
Ms Abigail
The Earl’s Disguised Governess is such a wonderful book and extended epilogue. I was very intrigued with Claire and Ernest romance and all the things his wicked mother did trying to keep them apart. She was definitely a wicked person and I was happy she ended up exiled to Scotland. Florence ended up being a lovely lady thanks to the guidance of Claire and Ernest.
Thank you sincerely for another great read.
Sharon
Thank you so much, Sharon! I’m thrilled you enjoyed *The Earl’s Disguised Governess* and found Claire and Ernest’s romance captivating. It’s great to hear you appreciated the twists with his mother and Florence’s transformation. Your kind words mean a lot!
The extended epilogue is a good finish to the story in this book. I really enjoyed it and I hope a follow up story on Florence comes soon. Great job Abigail !
Thank you so much! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the extended epilogue. I appreciate your kind words, and I’ll definitely keep your suggestion for a story on Florence in mind!
A feast for the romantic soul. This beautifully written tale shows that grief and overwhelming obstacles can be overcome. It touched my heart.
Thank you so much for your kind words. I’m truly touched that the story resonated with you and brought comfort to your heart. Your support means the world to me!
An interesting story where members of the Ton were showing they had other thoughts and interest beyond socialising. I thought the characters were well described showing there individual strengths and weaknesses.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m glad you enjoyed seeing the depth of the characters and their lives beyond society’s expectations. It means a lot to hear that their strengths and weaknesses resonated with you!
This was indeed a captivating story. It vividly demonstrated the fear and uncertain feelings we might get when we find ourselves in new and unknown situations. It also showed us what some people are willing to do in order to achieve their dreams. Last of all, this story showed us how love conquers our fears if we are willing to step forward in faith
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment! I’m thrilled to hear that the story resonated with you and captured those complex emotions. It means a lot to know that the themes of courage and love came through!
So beautifully written.Clean unadulterated love all round.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the story and the love it shared. Your support means a lot!
Loved it!
Thank you so much! I’m thrilled you loved it! 😊