Chapter 188: Reunited

The familiar cobblestone streets of Harrington flew past in a blur as Lucian urged his horse forward. Every corner he turned, every familiar landmark he passed, fueled his growing anticipation. Finally, the imposing gates of Harrington Mansion came into view. His heart pounded a frantic rhythm against his ribs. He dismounted, his legs unsteady after days on horseback, and pounded on the heavy oak door. It swung open almost before his fist landed, revealing a young maid with wide, surprised eyes. "Sir Lucian?" she gasped, her voice barely a whisper. "Is Lady Jane here?" Lucian asked, his voice hoarse with emotion. The maid nodded fervently, disappearing into the house in a flurry of petticoats. Moments later, a frantic shout echoed from within, followed by the unmistakable sound of hurried footsteps. The front door swung open with a force that would have surprised a battering ram. There, framed in the doorway, stood Jane. Her hair, usually meticulously styled, hung in disarray arou