#sullivan x esme

[northernxstories]

The Ward | Sullivan x Esme

The carriage was well made, which did make the journey more comfortable. It swayed as it rumbled from side to side. Most of their luggage had gone ahead, although he had sniffed derisively when he saw what the girl was wearing. He was overseas when he got word that his rather distant cousin had passed away due to some influenza that had swept their their region of the country. He had initially instructed his man of business to set up a small allowance for the widow so that she wouldn’t be left destitute. However, it was quickly revealed that the widow had passed shortly thereafter, leaving one single daughter. 

A child that was now his responsibility. He had no idea how old she might be and while he was reluctant to return from the colonies so soon, it simply could not be helped. He loathed his wastrel cousin but family was still family. Besides, how old could the girl be. Surely she was but a small child. He’d hired a governess, convert one side of his house and make an effort at some weekly meal to know the thing.

Except he had misread the letter. Esme was not 9 or 10 years old or so. Oh no, she was around 20 and despite the severity of the ugly dress she was wearing, she was a beauty. A trifle thin to be a diamond but with some exercise and colour in those cheeks, why she could be something quite lovely indeed. 

“I’m afraid you’ll find me rather strict, Esme. I can imagine it will be an adjustment for you.” he explained quietly. 

@deliirious​