ushernet Chapter 33: Receiving the Report and some Tension
Chapter 33: Receiving the Report and some Tension
April 12th, 1881 – Fitzwilliam Estate
The afternoon sun bathed the Fitzwilliam estate in a soft, golden glow, casting long shadows across the neatly trimmed lawns and gardens that surrounded the sprawling manor. A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the oak trees lining the cobblestone path, creating a serene atmosphere that spoke of wealth and tranquility.
Amber Fitzwilliam was in the courtyard, tending to her favorite rose bushes. Dressed in a modest yet elegant gown of pale blue, the fabric hugged her form in just the right places, accentuating her natural grace and beauty. The dress was simple enough for casual wear, yet refined enough to reflect her family’s status. Her golden hair was tied back with a silk ribbon, keeping it from her face as she worked.
A sudden sound drew her attention—a rhythmic clopping of hooves approaching the estate. Looking up, she saw a postman riding a weathered brown horse, the animal panting lightly from the long ride. The postman was a young man, perhaps in his early twenties, with ruddy cheeks that only reddened further as Amber straightened up and met his gaze.
Sliding off the horse with an awkward haste, the postman dusted off his uniform before making his way toward her. He fumbled with his satchel, clearly nervous under the intensity of her gaze.
"Good afternoon, Miss Fitzwilliam," he stammered, tipping his hat as he approached. "I’ve got an urgent telegram for Mr. Fitzwilliam."
Amber offered a polite smile, her sapphire eyes twinkling with curiosity. "Thank you. You can leave it with me. I’ll make sure my father receives it."
The young man hesitated, holding the envelope as if it were a precious artifact. "A telegram sent directly from West Tejas," he added, almost as if trying to prolong the conversation. His gaze flickered over Amber’s figure, but he quickly averted his eyes, his face flushing a deeper shade of red.
Amber’s smile widened slightly at his awkwardness. "Very well, I’ll see to it that he gets it promptly," she assured him, holding out her hand.
With a sheepish nod, the postman finally relinquished the envelope. As Amber’s slender fingers brushed against his, he nearly dropped his hat in his haste to bow and take his leave. She watched him mount his horse and ride away, chuckling softly to herself at his flustered demeanor.
Inside the Manor
Amber’s expression immediately hardened at the mention of Edward Rochestire. She stood straighter, her hands clenched at her sides, the delicate fabric of her gown rustling faintly with the motion.
"I don’t see how that concerns me, Father," she said, her voice clipped and cold. "My future should not be reduced to a mere business transaction."
Charles Fitzwilliam let out a heavy sigh, removing his reading glasses and rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Amber, this is not just about you," he said, his tone patient but firm. "This is about securing our family’s future. You know the influence the Rochestires wield. With their support, we can achieve so much more—control markets, push for favorable laws, expand beyond what we ever thought possible."
Amber shook her head, frustration boiling just beneath the surface. "The Rochestires may hold the keys to power, but I have no desire to be tied to Edward," she retorted. "He is nothing more than a tool in his father’s political machine, a puppet with no mind of his own. And I certainly have no intention of spending my life shackled to a man chosen for me by circumstances beyond my control."
Charles’s eyes narrowed, his usually composed demeanor cracking slightly. "He is the son of the current president of our nation. And he will soon follow his steps."
"Father, I don’t care if he’s the son of the president or the emperor of the world," Amber shot back, her voice rising slightly despite her effort to keep it calm. "I refuse to have my future dictated by your business alliances. I will not marry Edward Rochestire just because it’s convenient for you."
"Shut up!" Charles’s voice erupted.
Amber jolted in her place, shocked by a sudden outburst of his father.
"I am your father, you will follow me!"
Charles allowed himself to calm a little and then spoke. "I am doing this for your future, Amber. One day, you will have to live on your own and it must be with a man that can give you whatever you want."
Tears trickled down on Amber’s cheek as she was hurt by her father’s loud voice. She couldn’t bear herself to be in the same place as him, so she left his office and made her way to her bedroom.