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“Are you quite certain you’re ready for all this, Charlotte?” Angelique asked with a gentle smile, adjusting the lace trim of her elegant gown. The London townhouse bustled with activity, servants darting to and fro in preparation for the evening’s event. It had been four years since Angelique and Antoine had solidified their love in a beautiful garden ceremony, and now, they were back in London for a season that promised excitement and perhaps, a hint of the unknown.
Charlotte, at nineteen, turned to face Angelique, her eyes alight with a mix of determination and the slightest hint of nervousness. “I believe so, Angelique. With you by my side, I feel as though I can conquer not just London, but the world.”
Angelique’s laughter was light, echoing through the room. “Then conquer it you shall. But remember, I am here not just as your chaperone, but as your friend and confidante. Anything you need, you need only ask.”
The arrival in London had been met with much anticipation. Charlotte’s first Season had been postponed, her own request, as she felt unprepared to face the whirlwind of society at eighteen. But now, a year later, her confidence had blossomed, much like the gardens back at their estate in the countryside.
Angelique herself had changed in those four years. The mother of twin girls, with curls as golden as the sun and eyes filled with mischief, she now carried another child, a testament to the love and life she shared with Antoine. Her hands rested gently on her rounded belly, a smile curving her lips as she thought of the future.
Antoine’s protectiveness had only grown with each child, his love for Angelique a beacon for all who knew them. His gaze rarely left her, filled with a mix of adoration and an ever-present vigilance that spoke of his dedication to her well-being.
As they prepared for the evening, Grace entered, radiant in a gown that highlighted her newfound happiness. Married to a duke who adored her, she had found a love that transformed her, her happiness infectious. Her relationship with her family, once strained, was mending, though on her terms. Angelique had been instrumental in this, her forgiveness of their family’s past transgressions a bridge to healing.
Angelique and Grace shared a bond that went beyond family, their friendship a solid rock upon which they both leaned. “I’ve forgiven them,” Angelique had said one day, her voice soft but firm. “Holding onto grudges serves no one. But we will take this at your pace, Grace. Until you are ready, we need not rush into anything.”
The evening promised to be one of laughter, of shared glances and whispered secrets between cousins. London’s society was abuzz with the return of the Earl of Cambridge and his family, their story one of love overcoming all obstacles.
As they stepped into the carriage, Angelique took one last glance at the manor, her heart full. The adventure of the Season awaited, and with it, the promise of new memories to be made.
***
Antoine watched over Angelique with a tenderness that belied his vigilant gaze, his arm ever-present around her as they navigated the crowded rooms of London’s elite. Despite the festive atmosphere, his attention remained unwaveringly fixed on her, ensuring she was comfortable and at ease amidst the whirl of the Season. His protective nature had only deepened with the news of their third child, a testament to their enduring love.
“You must allow me a moment to breathe, my love,” Angelique teased, her hand resting atop his. “I assure you, I am quite safe here among friends.”
Antoine’s response was a soft chuckle, though his eyes still scanned the room with an almost imperceptible vigilance. “I know, my dear. But I find myself barely able to let you out of my sight these days. The very thought of you in any discomfort…” His voice trailed off, the unspoken words hanging between them, filled with emotion.
Around them, the ladies of society could not help but admire Antoine’s devotion, their sighs of longing a testament to their own desires for a love as profound as his for Angelique. They whispered among themselves, casting envious glances at the couple who had become a symbol of true partnership and affection.
Grace, now the Duchess, moved through these same circles with a grace and confidence that came from being genuinely loved. Her marriage to the Duke had been a whirlwind of romance that had captured the hearts of many. She glowed, the colors she wore accentuating her happiness and the love that filled her life.
Angelique and Grace found moments to steal away, their conversations a blend of earnest discussions and lighthearted jests. “You’ve truly found your match, Grace,” Angelique said with a smile, her eyes sparkling with joy for her cousin.
Grace returned the smile, her hand touching her heart. “I have, and it’s all thanks to you and Antoine. Your support has meant the world to me.”
Their relationship with their extended family was cautiously mending, a process of healing and understanding that took time and patience. Angelique’s forgiveness had paved the way for reconciliation, though she stood firm in her support of Grace’s wishes. “We will take it one step at a time,” she assured Grace. “Our family has much to make up for, but I believe in second chances.”
The evening wore on, filled with laughter and music, the bond between the two women a beacon of strength and loyalty. Angelique’s forgiving nature had not only brought her personal peace but had also opened the door for Grace to reclaim her place within their family, on her own terms.
As they prepared to leave, Antoine’s arm wrapped securely around Angelique, his presence a comforting weight. Their carriage awaited, the night drawing to a close on a note of contentment and love. The journey back to their home was quiet, the couple lost in their thoughts, reflecting on the evening and the many blessings they had to be grateful for.
***
As the London Season waned, the anticipation of their journey to France infused the Cambridge household with a sense of excitement and renewal. Angelique and Antoine had planned the trip meticulously, eager to introduce their children to Angelique’s mother’s family and the lush landscapes of her ancestral home. The prospect of spending the summer surrounded by the warmth of extended family and the beauty of the French countryside was a balm to their souls.
The evening before their departure, the household was a flurry of activity, with trunks being packed and final preparations made. Yet, amidst the chaos, there was a moment of serene domesticity as Angelique and Antoine tucked their twin girls into bed, their small faces alight with stories of adventures yet to come.
“Will we see where you grew up, Maman?” one of the twins, Lily, asked with wide-eyed wonder, her imagination already running wild with the tales her mother had shared.
“Yes, my darling,” Angelique replied, her voice soft with emotion. “And you’ll meet relatives you’ve only heard about in stories. It will be a summer of discoveries.”
Beside her, Antoine leaned down to kiss their foreheads, his heart full at the thought of the family they had created together. “And I, for one, cannot wait to see the place that helped shape the incredible woman your mother is,” he added, casting a loving glance towards Angelique.
The children’s laughter filled the room, a sweet melody that lingered as they drifted off to sleep, dreams of France dancing in their heads. Angelique and Antoine shared a look, the depth of their connection evident in their gaze. They had weathered storms and emerged stronger, their love a testament to the power of forgiveness and understanding.
Leaving the children’s room, they walked hand in hand to the drawing room, settling onto the settee in comfortable silence. The warmth of the fire cast a soft glow over the room, illuminating the contentment on their faces.
“Thinking of France brings back so many memories,” Angelique mused, her head resting on Antoine’s shoulder. “But sharing it with you and our children will make it even more special.”
Antoine wrapped an arm around her, pulling her closer. “Every moment with you is special, Angelique. I look forward to creating new memories, to adding to the tapestry of our life together.”
Their conversation meandered, from plans for their visit to reflections on the past few years. They spoke of the love they had for their family, of the joy and sometimes challenges of parenthood, and of the future they were building together.
As the fire dwindled to embers, Antoine and Angelique remained entwined, their whispers a gentle cadence in the quiet of the room. Their journey had not been without its trials, but it had led them here, to this moment of peace and anticipation.
The day had drawn to a close, but in the quiet of the drawing room, with the promise of tomorrow’s journey ahead, Angelique and Antoine knew they had found their happily ever after. It was not just in the grand gestures or the milestones they celebrated, but in these quiet moments of togetherness, where the world outside faded away, leaving only the strength of their love and the family they had built together.
In the soft glow of the dwindling firelight, Antoine and Angelique shared a comfortable silence, their hearts and thoughts as intertwined as their hands. The drawing room, with its elegant decor and the quiet crackle of the last embers, felt like a cocoon, shielding them from the world beyond. It was here, in the stillness of the evening, that they found solace in each other’s presence, a testament to the enduring love that had carried them through both joy and adversity.
Angelique, her head resting gently against Antoine’s shoulder, broke the silence with a soft, contented sigh. “Do you remember, Antoine, when we first dreamed of this life together? A family, a home filled with love, and adventures shared?”
Antoine turned to look at her, his eyes reflecting the fire’s warm glow. “I do,” he replied, his voice laced with emotion. “It seemed like a distant dream then. But look at us now, my love. We’ve made it a reality.”
Their conversation meandered through memories of the past and dreams for the future, each word weaving a stronger bond between them. Antoine spoke of his hopes for their children, of the legacy of strength and love he wished to pass on to them. Angelique shared her excitement for the summer in France, envisioning the joy their family would find in exploring her childhood haunts and creating new memories together.
As the clock chimed softly in the background, marking the late hour, they rose from the settee, reluctant to end the perfect evening but knowing the morrow held the promise of the beginning of their adventure. They extinguished the remaining candles, casting one last glance at the room that had witnessed so many moments of their life together.
Hand in hand, they ascended the staircase, the silence of the house enveloping them like a familiar embrace. Each step they took was a reminder of the journey they had embarked on together, one filled with love, laughter, and the occasional tears, all of which had only served to deepen their connection.
Reaching their bedroom, they paused at the threshold, looking into each other’s eyes. In that moment, they didn’t need words to express the depth of their feelings. The love they shared was a force unto itself, a beacon that guided them through life’s uncertainties.
As they prepared for bed, the events of the day and the anticipation of the journey ahead seemed to fade away, leaving only the profound gratitude they felt for the life they had built together. Lying side by side, they whispered sweet nothings, each word a pledge of their unwavering commitment to each other.
The night deepened around them, the quiet of the house a stark contrast to the vibrant dreams that danced in their minds. In the sanctity of their shared space, Antoine and Angelique found peace, their hearts beating as one in the stillness of the night.
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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 š
Great book to read! The story of Angelique and Antoine is full of surprises, evilness, jealousy and a wonderful everlasting love. As Angelique lost her parents at the age of 10, in an accident her aunt and her family moved in pretending to take care of her, but what they really wanted was to take her inheritance and by changing her name and telling everyone they have sent her to France with her mother’s family. But they did not count on her childhood friend Antoine who starting looking for her and realized what was really going on. Before he could save her from her family’s clutches, he needed prove of what they were doing and that is were all the excitement, and surprises begins. A great book to read. Well done Abigail !I’m
Thank you so much! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the story of Angelique and Antoine. Your feedback means a lot to me!
Enjoyed the story and the inventive twist to the classic Cinderella tale but some constructive criticism on the extended epilogueā I feel like some phrases were being overused to the point that I felt like I was reading the same phrase over and over again. Eg ātestament toā their love; their conversation āmeanderedā.
Thanks for the feedback! I’ll definitely take note of that for future revisions. Glad you enjoyed the story overall!
Another wonderful book and extended epilogue donāt know how you do it ,each book I have read is amazing, thank you
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled that you enjoyed the book and the extended epilogue. Your support means the world to me!
great storyline interestering characters lovd it
Thank you so much! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the storyline and characters. Your support means a lot to me!
Ms Abigail
An Heiress in Disguise was such a beautiful book and I enjoyed Angelique and Antoine so much. It was dreadful how her family treated her as a servant and called her Ella but she made the best of life. The extended epilogue was amazing and them having twin girls as well as Grace marrying a Duke was amazing. Thank you for such a wonderful story.
Very sincerely
Sharon
Thank you so much, Sharon, for your heartfelt words! Iām so glad you enjoyed Angelique and Antoineās journey, and that the extended epilogue brought joy. Itās wonderful to hear you connected with their story. Your support means a lot to me, and Iām grateful for readers like you! š
What a Wonderful story! A classic retelling of the Cinderella fairytale, Angelique and Antoine struggle to be together despite Angeliqueās imprisonment by her dark and twisted familyās schemes. Their tale depends on their ability to persevere, be strong and courageous, and to look at every situation seeking the possibilities, not the negatives. Antoine has a desperate fight to rescue Angelique and the remains of her little family without causing more harm along the way. There is no real anticipatory sense that everything is going to be alright – the tension is maintained throughout the book – making it a page turner! Get and read this book! You will love it!!!
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! I’m thrilled that you enjoyed the story and found it captivating. Your kind words mean a lot to me!
Delightful, fresh retelling of the classic Cinderella story, with twists and turns that kept me glued to the pages. Great read!
Thank you so much! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the twists and turns in the retelling!
I did enjoy the story and did quite a bit of laughing with the Earl and his valet! The characters were well developed. It was a different storyline from some that can be so much of the same type of story.
I’m thrilled you found the Earl and his valet’s antics amusing! Crafting unique characters and storylines was my goal, so I’m glad it resonated with you. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
I enjoyed reading your book for the first time it was great love story. The action was at the last ball it was great!
Thanks for sharing your feedback! I’m thrilled you enjoyed the love story and found the climax at the last ball gripping!
Loved the strength of Angelique, so different from the average Victorian female. Antoine did not give up on setting her free and restoring her life and identity. This story was filled with lots of jealousy and envy but love overcame it all. Really really loved how the characters were portrayed. Thank you…
It’s wonderful to hear you connected with Angelique’s strength and Antoine’s persistence! Thank you for appreciating the characters and their journey. Your kind words mean a lot.
I have been out of my reading for some time because of too much work and bad health so I am coming back and yours is the first story. I loved the story and was carried along with the problems in the house that was left for the daughter but had been taken over by the nasty relatives. It is a good clean story and the outcome was done very well by the author. True love is still the answer! Thanks for writing it this way. I look forward to the next one.
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled to hear that my story resonated with you and provided a refreshing return to reading. Your support means a lot, and I can’t wait to share more tales with you in the future!
It was a lovely story. We knew what the cruel and selfish aunt was doing and why but it was interesting to see how Antoine manages to extricate his old childhood friend Angelique from such a bad situation. In the process they get to know each other as grownups and fall deeply in love. I am curious about one thing. You said Phillip had light brown eyes and the masked man had dark eyes. However, they did not have colored contact lenses back then so how did he manage that? Other than this one thing I loved your book.
I’m thrilled you enjoyed the story! Regarding the eye color inconsistency, you make an excellent point. It seems I overlooked the historical context there. Thank you for pointing it out, and I’m glad it didn’t detract from your enjoyment of the book.
I Loved this book. I could not put it down.When I had to stop Reding to prepare the meals for the Family ,I was rushing back to my readin. Thank you for yor wonderful books.I am your fan forever
Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words and support! I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the book and that it kept you eagerly turning the pages. Your enthusiasm means the world to me as an author. Thank you for being a fan!
I loved the book!! I donāt understand a couple of times it looked like there were going to be some side twists to the story. At the first masquerade ball the brother was insisting that āEllaā be found to come serve him and his friends. But that story line didnāt develop, it just vanished from sight. Also at that ball, Angelique is concerned about being seen in the ballroom area at 3 in the morning. That never went anywhere either. I love your books even with the slip ups.
Thank you so much for your feedback and for loving the book! I appreciate your keen observations. Those moments were intended to add depth to the characters and setting, but I understand how they could feel like loose ends. I’ll keep this in mind for future projects. Your support means a lot!
A lot of twists and turns but a wonderful ending.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the twists and the ending! Thank you for your kind words!
As usual I loved this story,as I have loved every book of yours that I have read ! (And I have read many!). You have an amazing talent for writing and I canāt wait to read another one of your books! Please keep sharing your stories with us!