Whispers Shape Distant Tomorrows by Aren Cole Vale ` 84 Summary
In Chapter 84 of “Whispers Shape Distant Tomorrows,” titled “Seduction,” Joshua grapples with his feelings towards Tessa, who has previously caused pain to Margaery. Despite this, he feels an unexpected sympathy towards her as she expresses her worries about Clyde’s condition. Tessa’s innocence and gentle demeanor stir protective instincts in Joshua, leading him to question the accusations against her.
As Tessa shares her past encounter with Margaery, she downplays the incident, insisting it was her fault for misunderstanding the situation. Her willingness to sacrifice her own feelings for Margaery’s happiness showcases her selflessness, even as she struggles with her emotions. Joshua, moved by her vulnerability, reassures her that she is a daughter of the Chancellor’s estate and promises to protect her from future injustices, igniting a deeper bond between them.
Tessa’s emotional turmoil escalates when Joshua hints that she cannot marry Dominic, leading her to question the implications of his words. Despite her pain, she expresses her desire for Margaery’s happiness, revealing her inner conflict. This moment of vulnerability prompts Joshua to embrace her, stirring feelings of desire within him that he struggles to control. However, he abruptly pulls away, overwhelmed by his emotions and the implications of their closeness.
Meanwhile, Tessa’s resolve strengthens as she contemplates her future with Dominic, planning her next moves with determination. Joshua, on the other hand, is consumed by conflicting feelings for Tessa, struggling to maintain a facade of familial affection while battling his growing attraction. The chapter concludes with Joshua facing the reality of the chaotic situation surrounding them, particularly as Russell confronts him about Margaery’s injury, highlighting the tension and uncertainty that envelop their lives.
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**Chapter 84: Seduction**
Despite the knowledge that Tessa had once caused Margaery pain, Joshua found himself grappling with an unexpected wave of sympathy as he listened to her gentle and humble words. The memory of her trials and tribulations lingered in his mind, leaving him questioning his own judgments.
‘Is she truly a member of the Wallen family?’
The uncertainty gnawed at him.
After lingering at the threshold for what felt like an eternity, he finally stepped inside, his voice breaking the stillness. “Tessa.”
Her face brightened instantly, a radiant smile breaking through her earlier worry. “Joshua, why have you come so late?”
Her eagerness was palpable as she added, “How is Clyde? Has he woken up? Should I go see him?”
Just moments ago, joy had illuminated her features, but that light quickly dimmed as tears began to gather in her eyes. “I can’t comprehend who could be so cruel as to hurt him so badly.”
“The imperial physician has already seen him. He’s resting over there now,” Joshua replied, trying to steady his own emotions.
He settled into a chair, the weight of the situation pressing heavily on his chest.
‘Could Paige have fabricated everything?’
This troubling thought replayed in his mind as he scrutinized Tessa. Every word she spoke and every expression that crossed her face suggested innocence, as if she were more likely to be the victim of others’ cruelty rather than a perpetrator herself.
Finally, gathering his courage, he asked, “Tessa, does your face still ache from when Margaery struck you last time?”
His gaze fell upon her delicate features, and a surge of pity filled his heart.
For someone as gentle and obedient as her, it was impossible not to feel a protective instinct rising within him.
“It doesn’t hurt anymore,” she replied softly, her fingers brushing against her cheek as she lowered her eyes. “Margaery was just upset for a moment, and I can understand that. It was my fault, really. I grew up in the countryside, and I’m not very sophisticated. I thought giving her the leftover fabric to embroider a pouch would be a kind gesture, but I never intended to offend her dignity.”
“She was right to hit me,” she added, her voice barely a whisper.
As she spoke, her tear-filled gaze met Joshua’s, and she pleaded, “Joshua, what if I give her the pair of shoes that Lady Alicia gifted me? But please, don’t tell her they’re from me. Just say they’re from you. That way, she won’t be angry anymore.”
Joshua studied her earnest expression, noting the innocence that radiated from her. He sighed deeply, “She doesn’t need that pair of shoes from you. I know you’re sensible, but right now the Chancellor’s estate is facing significant troubles, and I fear you may have to endure some hardships.”
His heart ached as he spoke those words.
He hesitated to voice his thoughts directly, feeling a profound sense of empathy for Tessa. After a moment, he took her hand gently, “Tessa, regardless of what happens, you are a daughter of the Chancellor’s estate. Even if you face injustice today, we will make it right in the future. Don’t be too disheartened; Dominic isn’t all that great, after all…”
At his words, Tessa’s composure shattered.
“Joshua, what… what do you mean by that?”
‘What does it mean that “Dominic is not the best”?’
An ominous feeling crept into her heart as she processed his words.
Joshua struggled to find the right way to express himself but, with no other choice, he braced himself and said, “This time, I’m afraid you cannot marry Dominic. Only—”
“Why!” Tessa exclaimed, her voice a mixture of disbelief and anguish. “He clearly promised me…”
As her words trailed off, she caught sight of Joshua’s astonished expression and realized her reaction was far from her usual calm demeanor. Quickly, she squeezed out some tears, lowering her gaze. “Is it that Margaery doesn’t want me to marry Dominic?”
Before Joshua could respond, her voice quivered, “If she doesn’t wish for us to be together, then I will step aside. After all, Dominic is her fiancé, and I came into the picture later. It’s only natural for her to feel this way.”
Her tear-filled eyes locked onto Joshua’s, and she forced a fragile smile, one that betrayed her inner turmoil. “No matter what, I still wish Margaery happiness.”
Though she wore a smile, the tears streamed down her cheeks uncontrollably.
Seeing her in such distress ignited a fierce protective instinct within Joshua. Without thinking, he wrapped his arms around her, his voice trembling with emotion. “Tessa, you’ve been wronged this time. But I promise you, from now on, I will make it up to you and ensure you never endure such grievances again.”
“Even if you can’t marry Dominic, if you must stay in the residence for a lifetime, I will always take care of you…”
A wicked thought flickered in his mind.
If she were not truly a daughter of the Wallen family, he would still cherish her, keeping her close in the rear courtyard for a lifetime. While he could not offer her the status of a legitimate wife, making her a favored mistress would be more than acceptable.
As long as he showered her with affection, that would be enough.
Tessa leaned against Joshua’s chest, feeling an unfamiliar warmth radiating from him.
She was not a Wallen family daughter, so her closeness to the Wallen sons was not that of siblings.
With this realization, she deliberately pressed her chest against Joshua’s firm torso and sobbed, “I will listen to you in everything.”
In a tender gesture, she wrapped her arms around Joshua’s waist, seeking solace in his embrace.
Joshua felt a surge of desire, a wild urge to pull her closer and possess her completely.
It was an uncontrollable urge, like a beast yearning to break free.
Suddenly, he pushed Tessa away, retreating to the door in a flurry. “I just remembered something urgent…” he stammered, leaving her in a state of confusion.
Once outside, he was struck by the cold wind, and he slapped himself mentally.
‘What on earth am I thinking!’
Meanwhile, Tessa wiped her tear-streaked face, squinting out the window as a barely perceptible, cold smile crept onto her lips.
She was resolute in her desire to marry Dominic, but she was also determined that the men of the Wallen family would not escape unscathed.
Having grown up in a pleasure house, she understood precisely what enticed men—a knowledge that Margaery could never hope to rival.
Moreover, this afternoon, she had already conferred with the midwife and secured Callum’s support.
“Hmph,” she let out a quiet laugh as she prepared for bed, a sense of satisfaction washing over her.
Downstairs, Joshua stood, staring at the extinguished lights above, his emotions a tumultuous mix.
Despite the frigid winter air that pierced his skin, a fire burned within him, desperate to be unleashed.
Images of Tessa, clad in revealing attire at Pero Cela, flashed through his mind.
He could no longer remain in Sunbeam Court.
Fearful of losing control, he quickly left, making his way toward the Eames residence, muttering to himself, “Yes! The one I like is Lady Phillipa, not Tessa…”
“Tessa is just my sister…”
Yet, deep down, he questioned the truth of that statement.
Before the blood recognition ceremony, certainty was a luxury no one could afford.
Besides, it was already late, and visiting Phillipa was out of the question, especially since she was working in the palace.
Frustrated, he made his way back home.
“Joshua.”
A voice called out from the shadows, startling him. “Clyde stabbed Margaery! Why didn’t you tell me? You only said he was injured by ruffians!”
Looking up, he saw Russell standing beneath the lanterns at the gate, his eyes bloodshot and his body trembling with rage. “What exactly are you all trying to do? Where is Margaery?”
Joshua felt a headache brewing. “I didn’t tell you because I was afraid you’d act impulsively. The estate can’t handle such chaos right now.”
He hadn’t anticipated Russell’s transformation over the past few days. Remembering Tessa, he couldn’t help but advise, “Russell, you cannot trust the words of a servant. You captured Paige. Knowing she cannot escape death, she will surely seek revenge.”
Conclusion
As the chapter draws to a close, the emotional landscape between Joshua and Tessa has shifted dramatically, revealing the complexities of their intertwined fates. Joshua’s protective instincts have surfaced, igniting a fierce desire to shield Tessa from the injustices she faces, while Tessa, despite her heartbreak, demonstrates a remarkable resilience and understanding of her position within the Wallen family. The tension between their feelings—Joshua’s burgeoning affection and Tessa’s acceptance of her role—creates a poignant atmosphere, suggesting that their connection is evolving into something deeper, even as they grapple with the constraints of their circumstances. The promise of care and protection that Joshua offers Tessa stands in stark contrast to her determination to pursue her own desires, setting the stage for a conflict that could either draw them closer or tear them apart.
Meanwhile, the shadows of the Wallen estate loom large, with the threat of chaos and betrayal lurking just beneath the surface. Russell’s anger and the revelation of Clyde’s actions add an unpredictable element to the already volatile atmosphere, forcing Joshua to confront the precarious balance between loyalty to his family and the emerging feelings for Tessa. As he walks away, grappling with his emotions and the weight of his decisions, both characters are left at a crossroads, uncertain of what lies ahead. The chapter encapsulates the struggle between societal expectations and personal desires, hinting at a future where love, loyalty, and ambition will intertwine in unexpected ways, ultimately shaping their destinies in a world fraught with danger and intrigue.
What to Expect in Next Chapter?
**What to Expect in Next Chapter?**
As the tension between Joshua and Tessa deepens, the next chapter promises to unravel the complexities of their relationship. With Tessa’s longing for Dominic clashing against Joshua’s burgeoning feelings, readers can expect a whirlwind of emotions as both characters navigate their desires and loyalties. Will Joshua confront his feelings for Tessa, or will he continue to suppress them in the name of duty? The stakes are higher than ever, and the choices they make could alter the course of their lives forever.
Meanwhile, Russell’s rage and determination to protect Margaery hint at impending chaos within the estate. As he seeks answers and confronts the truth behind the recent events, the drama is set to escalate. The shadows of betrayal loom large, and with Paige’s fate hanging in the balance, the question arises: who will emerge victorious in this tangled web of love and revenge? Expect unexpected alliances and fierce confrontations as the characters grapple with their pasts and forge their futures. The next chapter is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating each revelation and twist that awaits.
