The Duke's Bed Warmer

Chapter 192: Home

Austin and Alina left Audrey’s chambers feeling lighter than they had in a very long time. They walked through the palace corridors holding each other and giving each other biggest smiles. They were finally free to be together.

As they stepped into the palace garden, Alina suddenly stopped. Thomas and Emeric were standing near the fountain. Emeric looked weaker but his eyes were bright and his usual playful smile was already forming on his lips.

"Emeric!" Alina cried out.

She ran across the grass and threw her arms around him. Emeric laughed and hugged her back.

"Easy there, Alina," he chuckled. "I managed to survive Crane’s men. Dying from hugging would be so embarrassing."

Thomas smiled as he watched them.

"They released him in the morning. Crane’s influence is weakening. The guards opened the door and told him to go."

"We are sorry you got dragged into all this because of us. We should have protected you better," Austin said as he walked towards him and clasped Emeric’s arm firmly.

Emeric waved his hand dismissively.

"Nonsense," Emeric laughed. "I have a talent for finding trouble, and vice versa."

"I agree," Alina laughed as well.

"By the way... I can tell from your faces that something good has finally happened. You both look... happy and relieved as if you just won a war."

Austin and Alina exchanged a glance and told him everything. When they finished, Emeric smiled grimly.

"Poor Audrey... I’m glad she chose bravely in the end," he said. "But I am happy that my research didn’t go to waste and it finally gave us the result we were hoping for."

Alina smiled.

"Come on. Let’s go back to Ravenmoor now."

Emeric’s smile softened as he shook his head.

"Thank you, Alina. But I think I will stay here a little longer," he smiled and glanced around. "There are interesting things happening in this city. My scholay mind wants to learn about it."

They understood.

"Take care of yourself, Emeric," Austin said. "If you ever need us, send word. Ravenmoor will always be there for you."

"I will," Emeric grinned. "Now go. Live the life you fought so hard for."

The king had already arranged everything. A luxurious carriage was waiting for them at the palace gates, stocked with food and blankets. The king himself came to see them off.

"Travel safely, both of you," he said. "I wish you both happiness."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Austin said, bowing his head.

As the carriage began moving, Alina glanced back at the palace towards Audrey’s room. She was at the window wearing the same plain dress. Though she looked sad, she smiled warmly as she saw Alina. She raised her hand waving them goodbye. Alina did the same as they bid their farewell to each other.

They didn’t know when they will see each other again. But they were glad their Chapter had closed on a happy note.

Inside the carriage, Austin pulled Alina close. The moment the palace gates disappeared behind them both of them looked at each other and started laughing.

"We did it," Alina whispered, her eyes glowing. "We are finally going home together."

Austin kissed her forehead, then her temple, and then the corner of her mouth.

"No more politics and drama. Just us," he held her tighter as the carriage rolled forward. "I love you, Alina. I love you so much."

"I love you too," she replied, resting her head on his chest.

The journey was long, but this time they enjoyed it instaed of feeling scared and worried like all the previous times.

Two days later, the familiar towers of Ravenmoor finally came into view. As the carriages entered the gates, servants and guards rushed out to greet them, looking happy and relieved.

Harrington was the first one to greet them.

"Welcome home," he said. "The entire castle has been waiting for your arrival."

"We are glad too, Harrington," Austin smiled. "This journey had been too long. There were times we weren’t sure if we’ll make it. But we did it. Together," Austin said and squeezed Alina’s hand.

Harrington smiled then cleared his throat.

"Your Grace, if I may... there is something important I must tell you. It concerns the..."

Austin raised his hand making him stop.

"Later, Harrington. We both are exhausted. Whatever it is, it can wait until tomorrow."

Harrington nodded with understanding.

"Of course, Your Grace. Rest well."

"You can go first," Alina said. "I’m going to see the sewing circle first."

Austin nodded.

"I will be in my room. Do not stay too long."

Alina smiled and walked towards the garden. The moment she appeared the garden gates, the women gasped and immediately swarmed around her.

"Alina! You are back! Are you okay? Where were you?"

"We were so worried! Every day we prayed for your safe return!"

"I am fine," Alina replied, laughing. "Thanks to all of you and your prayers. This time we really needed them."

Then she looked around and noticed everything almost packed. She frowned.

"How is the work?" She asked. "Did you finish everything?"

"We finished the last shipment yesterday, Alina," Marguerite beamed with joy. "It is ready to be delivered."

Alina blinked in surprise as her eyes stung with tears.

"Although I’m sad I couldn’t be here for the last shipment but I’m so proud of all of you."

"We learned from the best," Lady Brennan held her hand. "If it weren’t you, there would be no sewing circle in the first place."

"But it is your determination and hardwork that yoided results," Alina smiled. "Now, tell me what do you want to do next? We can start something new."

The women exchanged glances, then laughed softly.

"Rest Alina," Evelyn said. "We have been sewing military collars and sleeves for months. Our fingers need a break."

Alina nodded, laughing with them.

"Then let’s have a break. You all deserve it after months of hardwork."

As she looked around, she spotted Rosilyn standing far away near a table. She looked better.

"Rosilyn," Alina said gently, walking over. "How are you?"

Rosilyn immediately hugged her.

"Alina! I am so glad to see you back!" she murmured.

"How are you feeling?" Alina asked, patting her head gently.

"Better," Rosilyn replied. "I still get nightmares and become overly scared but the women here have been kind and patient with me. They make me feel safe."

"You never have to be afraid again. I’ll be here with you," Alina said as she pulled apart.

Rosilyn nodded.

"Thank you for letting me stay here."

Alina smiled warmly. Looking at Rosilyn now, it was hard to believe she was the same woman who had arrived shivering in Ravenmoor. She had healed little by little, surrounded by people who cared for her.

Seeing her transformation made Alina realize if one woman could heal and rebuild her life here, then so could many others. There were countless women out there carrying pain, fear, and loneliness just like Rosilyn. And perhaps she could help them find hope again too.