The study was warm, dim, with shelves of books lining two full walls and sunlight spilling across the wooden floorboards.
Henry sat in the armchair near the desk, straight-backed despite his discomfort.
When Bella stepped into the doorway, she froze. She had heard Rachel describe him many times to be quiet, stern, and dignified, but nothing had prepared her for the man sitting before her.
Henry Camden was striking.
More than handsome. His presence was commanding. His silver-gray hair framed a face carved with experience and steadiness. His blue eyes looking calm, a bit dull, and piercing, lifted toward her with a mix of curiosity and something unreadable. He looked like a man who had weathered storms and still stood firm.
Seeing him face to face, Bella understood immediately.This was why Rachel had fallen so quickly and deeply too.
Henry cleared his throat when he saw how Bella was looking at him.
"Miss Howells," he said evenly. "Please, come in."
