CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY SEVEN – THE HEIR OF THE ESTATE

As Charlotte diligently worked on dusting the shelves in the library, she heard the sound of footsteps approaching. She turned to see a young man enter the room, his presence commanding attention. He had sandy blonde hair and striking blue eyes that seemed to sparkle in the dim light. "Excuse me," he said, his voice gentle yet confident. "I didn’t mean to interrupt. I just needed to fetch a book." Charlotte blinked, momentarily taken aback by his unexpected appearance. "Oh, I’m sorry. I’ll just—" "It’s quite all right," he interrupted, offering her a warm smile. "I’m Richard Griffith, Lady Griffith’s son." Charlotte’s heart skipped a beat at the mention of his name. She had heard of Richard Griffith, the sole heir to the estate, but she had never seen him in person. He was even more handsome up close, with an air of kindness that seemed to radiate from him. "I’m Charlotte," she replied, trying to steady her nerves. "Charlotte Emerson." "Nice to meet you, Charlotte," Richard said,