Romance Across The Ages

By Sophie Grant

Lila Bennett, a successful romance author, has always been fascinated by the idea of true love that transcends time. Little does she know that her life is about to take an extraordinary turn when she stumbles upon an antique desk with mysterious powers.

 

One day, while working on her latest novel, Lila finds herself inexplicably transported to the Victorian era. Disoriented and confused, she meets the charming and dashing William Ashton, a man who captures her heart with his wit, intelligence, and old-fashioned chivalry.

 

As Lila spends more time in the past, she finds herself falling deeply in love with William, despite knowing that their love is forbidden by the boundaries of time. She begins to question her place in the modern world and yearns for a life with William in his era.

 

However, Lila's actions in the past start to affect the present, causing ripples in her own timeline. She realizes that her choices could have serious consequences, not only for herself but for those she loves in both eras.

 

Torn between her love for William and her responsibilities in the present, Lila must make a heart-wrenching decision. Should she stay in the past and risk altering history, or return to her own time and leave behind the love of her life?

 

As Lila navigates the complexities of time travel and the depths of her own heart, she learns valuable lessons about love, sacrifice, and the power of following one's dreams.

 

"Romance Across the Ages" is a sweeping, emotional tale that will transport readers to a world where love knows no bounds and destiny can be rewritten.

 

This feel-good, romantic fantasy explores the idea that true love can conquer all, even the barriers of time itself. It is a story that will leave readers believing in the enduring power of love and the importance of cherishing every moment with those who matter most.

• Language: English
• Publisher: NP Lovestruck Publishing
• Release date: Mar 26, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224193592

Sophie Grant

Sophie Grant is an exciting new voice in contemporary romance. Her debut novel, "Discovering Love Abroad," draws readers in with a relatable heroine and an irresistible meet-cute with a charming backpacker abroad. Though "Discovering Love Abroad" marks Sophie's first published novel, she is no stranger to writing romantic tales that pull at the heartstrings. She has been writing fiction since she was a little girl, filling notebooks with stories about star-crossed love and adventuresome characters finding unexpected partnership. After studying English and Creative Writing at college in her home state of Oregon, Sophie continued penning her passion projects while working office jobs to pay the bills. Still, she nurtured a dream of becoming a full-time author. When she's not working on her next book, you'll find Sophie exploring the Pacific Northwest, learning new cultures through films and food, trying out new hiking trails, and adding stamps to her ever-growing passport. The allure of wanderlust and heartfelt human connection inspire the fictional worlds she builds. Sophie currently resides in Portland with her golden retriever, but she hopes the success of her first published book will enable her to travel more and keep discovering love in new and exciting places around the globe. Wherever Sophie goes next, readers can expect more steamy, will-they-won't-they page-turners with happily-ever-afters to warm the heart.

Book preview

Romance Across The Ages

A Timeless Connection

Copyright © 2024 by Sophie Grant.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any form whatsoever without written permission except in the case of brief quotations in critical articles or reviews.

First Edition : March 2024

Content

Chapter 1: A Fateful Discovery

Chapter 2: Worlds Collide

Chapter 3: The Mysterious Desk

Chapter 4: Secrets of the Past

Chapter 5: Temporal Ripples

Chapter 6: Hidden Agendas

Chapter 7: The Victorian Soirée

Chapter 8: Echoes of Love

Chapter 9: The Timepiece Prophecy

Chapter 10: Forbidden Encounters

Chapter 11: The Temporal Tearoom

Chapter 12: Family Ties

Chapter 13: Whispers in the Wind

Chapter 14: The Timeless Pendant

Chapter 15: Shifting Sands of Time

Chapter 16: The Temporal Guardian

Chapter 17: A Timely Rescue

Chapter 18: The Victorian Vixen

Chapter 19: Secrets Unraveled

Chapter 20: The Enchanted Garden

Chapter 21: Temporal Tug-of-War

Chapter 22: The Clockmaker's Legacy

Chapter 23: A Stitch in Time

Chapter 24: The Timeless Union

Chapter 25: The Betrayal

Chapter 26: Race Against Time

Chapter 27: The Temporal Showdown

Chapter 28: Love's Sacrifice

Chapter 29: Timeless Vows

Chapter 30: A Love for the Ages

Chapter 1: A Fateful Discovery

LILA BENNETT STARED at the blank document on her laptop screen, the cursor blinking expectantly. The bustling sounds of the cozy Enchanted Bookshop faded into the background as she willed the words to flow from her fingertips. As a bestselling romance author, Lila was no stranger to the occasional bout of writer's block, but this felt different. It was as if the stories that once danced so vividly in her mind had suddenly gone silent, leaving her grasping for even a glimmer of inspiration.

With a sigh, Lila saved the untouched document and closed her laptop. Perhaps a break and some fresh air would help clear her mind. She gathered her belongings and made her way through the labyrinth of bookshelves, breathing in the comforting scent of aged paper and ink.

As she approached the front of the shop, a glint of light caught her eye. Tucked away in a corner, an antique desk sat beneath a window, its polished surface reflecting the warm afternoon sun. Lila found herself drawn to the desk, her fingers tracing the intricate carvings that adorned its edges.

Ah, I see you've discovered our latest acquisition, came a voice from behind her.

Startled, Lila turned to find Dr. Evelyn Winters, the enigmatic owner of the bookshop, standing beside her. The elegant woman, with her silver hair and knowing eyes, always seemed to appear when Lila least expected it.

It's beautiful, Lila murmured, her gaze returning to the desk. There's something about it that feels...special.

Dr. Winters smiled, a cryptic expression playing across her features. Indeed, it is. This desk has quite a history, my dear. Some say it possesses the power to transport its owner to another time, another place.

Lila chuckled, shaking her head. If only that were true. I could certainly use a little magic to help me with my writing.

Perhaps it's not the desk that needs to be magical, but rather the writer herself, Dr. Winters replied, her eyes twinkling.

Before Lila could respond, the bell above the bookshop's entrance chimed, signaling the arrival of a customer. Dr. Winters excused herself, leaving Lila alone with the desk once more.

On a whim, Lila reached out and opened one of the desk's drawers. To her surprise, a small, leather-bound journal lay nestled inside. She carefully lifted the journal from its resting place and opened it to the first page. The words Property of William Ashton were written in an elegant, old-fashioned script.

Intrigued, Lila began to flip through the journal's pages. As she read, she found herself transported to Victorian-era England, immersed in the life of the journal's owner. William Ashton's words painted a vivid picture of a time long past, filled with grand manor houses, secret societies, and a love that defied the constraints of society.

Lost in the journal's pages, Lila didn't notice the sudden shift in the air around her. The bookshop's familiar scents of coffee and old books faded away, replaced by the crisp, earthy aroma of a garden in bloom. The sounds of cars and pedestrians outside the shop's windows fell silent, giving way to the distant neighing of horses and the gentle rustling of leaves.

It wasn't until a deep, unfamiliar voice spoke that Lila's attention was pulled from the journal.

Excuse me, miss, but I don't believe we've had the pleasure of meeting.

Lila's heart leapt into her throat as she looked up from the journal, her eyes widening in disbelief. Standing before her, dressed in a finely tailored suit and top hat, was a man who could only be described as the spitting image of the journal's owner, William Ashton.

I...I'm sorry, Lila stammered, her mind reeling. I must have gotten lost in my reading. I didn't mean to intrude.

The man's lips curved into a charming smile, his blue eyes sparkling with amusement. No intrusion at all, miss. It's not every day that I find a beautiful woman so engrossed in my private journal.

Lila felt her cheeks flush at his words. She glanced down at the journal in her hands, then back up at the man before her. The realization hit her like a bolt of lightning: somehow, impossibly, she had been transported to the Victorian era, just like the characters in her novels.

I'm Lila, she managed to say, her voice trembling slightly. Lila Bennett. And you are?

The man removed his hat and bowed, his dark hair gleaming in the sun. William Ashton, at your service.

As Lila stared into William's eyes, she felt a spark of something she had never experienced before - a connection that transcended time and space, a love that had been waiting for her across the centuries. In that moment, she knew that her life would never be the same.

It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Ashton, Lila said, a smile spreading across her face. I have a feeling we have a lot to talk about.

William grinned, offering her his arm. Indeed, we do, Miss Bennett. Shall we take a stroll through the gardens? I have a suspicion that fate has brought us together for a reason.

Lila took his arm, her heart racing with anticipation. As they walked together through the lush, blooming gardens of the Victorian manor, she couldn't help but feel that she had finally found the inspiration she had been searching for - and perhaps, just perhaps, the love of a lifetime.

BACK IN THE PRESENT day, Dr. Evelyn Winters watched from the bookshop's window as Lila and William's figures faded into the mists of time. A knowing smile played across her lips as she turned back to the antique desk, running her fingers over its polished surface.

And so it begins, she murmured to herself, her eyes sparkling with the wisdom of ages. A love story for the ages, destined to change the course of history itself.

She glanced at the small, silver timepiece that hung around her neck, its hands spinning backwards and forwards in an endless dance. Dr. Winters had seen the threads of fate weave themselves around Lila and William, had watched as their love story unfolded across the tapestry of time.

Now, it was up to them to navigate the challenges and triumphs that lay ahead, to fight for a love that would echo through the centuries. And Dr. Winters would be there to guide them, to offer her wisdom and support as they embarked on the journey of a lifetime.

With a final, enigmatic smile, Dr. Winters turned back to her bookshop, ready to welcome the next chapter in Lila and William's extraordinary tale.

Chapter 2: Worlds Collide

AS LILA STROLLED ARM in arm with William through the enchanting Victorian gardens, she couldn't help but marvel at the surreal nature of her situation. The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of blooming roses and the gentle chirping of birds, a stark contrast to the bustling city sounds she was accustomed to.

I must admit, Mr. Ashton, I'm still trying to wrap my head around all of this, Lila said, glancing up at her companion. One moment I was in a bookshop, and the next, I found myself here, in a completely different era.

William smiled, his blue eyes crinkling at the corners. Please, call me William. And I can only imagine how disorienting this must be for you. But I assure you, Miss Bennett, that you are not dreaming. This is very much real.

Lila felt a shiver run down her spine at the sound of her name on his lips. There was something about William's presence that both excited and unnerved her, a feeling she couldn't quite put into words.

In that case, you must call me Lila, she replied, returning his smile. And if this is real, then I suppose I have a lot to learn about Victorian society. I wouldn't want to make any social blunders.

William chuckled, patting her hand reassuringly. You needn't worry, Lila. I'll be here to guide you every step of the way. Consider me your personal tutor in all things Victorian.

As they continued their walk, William began to point out various features of the manor's grounds, from the meticulously manicured hedges to the grand fountains that dotted the landscape. Lila listened attentively, fascinated by the history and beauty that surrounded her.

It's like something out of a fairy tale, she murmured, her eyes wide with wonder. I've always been drawn to this era, but I never imagined I would actually experience it firsthand.

William's expression softened, a hint of understanding in his gaze. Sometimes, the most extraordinary things happen when we least expect them. Perhaps it was fate that brought you here, to this moment in time.

Lila felt her heart skip a beat at his words. She had always believed in the power of love, had written countless stories about it, but she had never experienced anything like the connection she felt with William. It was as if their souls had recognized each other across the vast expanse of time, drawn together by an invisible force.

As they rounded a corner, Lila caught sight of a grand, sprawling manor house in the distance. Its ivy-covered walls and towering spires seemed to reach for the sky, a testament to the grandeur and elegance of the Victorian era.

Is that your home? she asked, her voice filled with awe.

William nodded, a hint of pride in his smile. Yes, Ashton Manor has been in my family for generations. It's where I grew up, and where I hope to raise my own family someday.

Lila felt a flutter in her stomach at the mention of family. She had always dreamed of finding a love that would stand the test of time, of building a life with someone who shared her hopes and dreams. Could it be that she had found that love in William, a man from a different era?

Before she could dwell on the thought, a figure emerged from the manor's grand entrance. It was a young woman, her dark hair pinned up in an elegant twist, her dress a vision of lace and silk. She hurried towards them, a look of concern on her face.

William, there you are! she called out, her voice filled with relief. I've been looking everywhere for you.

As the woman drew closer, Lila couldn't help but notice the striking resemblance she bore to William. The same blue eyes, the same aristocratic features - it was clear that they were related.

William smiled, releasing Lila's arm to embrace the woman. Charlotte, dear sister, I apologize for worrying you. I was just taking a stroll with our guest, Miss Lila Bennett.

Charlotte turned to Lila, her eyes widening in surprise. Oh, forgive me, Miss Bennett. I didn't realize we had company. It's a pleasure to meet you.

Lila curtsied, feeling a bit awkward in her modern clothing. The pleasure is all mine, Miss Ashton. And please, call me Lila.

Charlotte smiled warmly, her initial surprise giving way to genuine kindness. In that case, you must call me Charlotte. Any friend of William's is a friend of mine.

As the three of them made their way back to the manor, Charlotte filled Lila in on the latest gossip and goings-on of Victorian society. Lila listened attentively, fascinated by the intricacies of social etiquette and the scandals that seemed to lurk around every corner.

I must say, Lila, you're handling this all remarkably well, Charlotte said, her eyes twinkling with mischief. Most people would be quite overwhelmed by the prospect of time travel.

Lila laughed, feeling a sense of camaraderie with the young woman. I suppose it helps that I'm a writer. I've always had a vivid imagination and a love for adventure.

William's eyes widened in surprise. A writer? How fascinating! What sort of stories do you write, Lila?

Lila felt a blush creep up her cheeks. Romance novels, mostly. Stories about love that transcends time and space, about two hearts finding each other against all odds.

William's gaze softened, a hint of understanding in his eyes. It seems that you were destined to come here, then. To live out the very stories you write.

As they entered the manor, Lila couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging, as if she had finally found her place in the world. The grand foyer, with its sweeping staircase and glittering chandeliers, seemed to welcome her like an old friend.

Charlotte turned to Lila, a mischievous glint in her eye. I do hope you'll join us for dinner tonight, Lila. I have a feeling that you and William have much to discuss.

Lila glanced at William, her heart fluttering at the thought of spending more time with him. I would be delighted, Charlotte. Thank you for the invitation.

As Charlotte excused herself to tend to household matters, William turned to Lila, his expression serious. Lila, there's something I need to tell you. Something that may be difficult to believe.

Lila felt a sense of unease wash over her. What is it, William? You can tell me anything.

William took a deep breath, his eyes searching hers. I'm not just a member of Victorian society, Lila. I'm part of a secret organization, one that is dedicated to protecting the flow of time itself.

Lila's eyes widened in shock. A secret organization? Protecting time? I don't understand.

William reached out, taking her hands in his. I know it sounds incredible, but it's the truth. And I believe that your arrival here, in this time, is no accident. You have a role to play in all of this, Lila. A destiny that is intertwined with mine.

Lila felt her heart race at his words. She had always believed in the power of destiny, had written about it in her novels, but to hear William speak of it now, in the context of their own lives, was both thrilling and terrifying.

What do you mean, William? What is my role in all of this?

William smiled, his eyes filled with a mixture of tenderness and determination. That, my dear Lila, is something we will discover together. But know this: I will be by your side every step of the way, guiding and protecting you as we navigate the complexities of time and love.

Lila felt a surge of emotion wash over her, a feeling of deep connection and purpose. She knew, in that moment, that her life would never be the same. That she had embarked on a journey that would test her in ways she had never been tested before, but that would also bring her a love and adventure beyond her wildest dreams.

As William led her deeper into the manor, Lila couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and trepidation. She knew that the road ahead would be filled with challenges and obstacles, but with William by her side, she felt ready to face whatever lay ahead.

And so, as the sun began to set over Ashton Manor, casting a golden glow over the gardens and grounds, Lila Bennett and William Ashton began their journey together, two hearts entwined across the vast expanse of time, ready to face the mysteries and wonders that awaited them.

Chapter 3: The Mysterious Desk

AS THE GOLDEN RAYS of the setting sun cast a warm glow over Ashton Manor, Lila found herself in a state of both exhilaration and trepidation. The revelation of William's involvement in a secret society dedicated to protecting the flow of time had left her reeling, her mind buzzing with questions and possibilities.

William, sensing her unease, gently placed a hand on the small of her back, guiding her towards the manor's grand library. I know this is a lot to take in, Lila, he said softly, his voice filled with understanding. But I promise, I will do everything in my power to help you navigate this new reality.

Lila nodded, taking a deep breath to steady herself. I just can't believe this is happening. Time travel, secret societies - it's like something out of one of my novels.

William chuckled, a warm smile spreading across his handsome face. Life has a way of surprising us, doesn't it? But I have to admit, having a beautiful and talented writer like yourself by my side makes the adventure all the more thrilling.

Lila felt a blush creep up her cheeks at his words, her heart fluttering in her chest. There was something about William's presence that both comforted and excited her, a feeling of deep connection that went beyond the boundaries of time and space.

As they entered the library, Lila gasped in awe at the sight before her. Towering bookshelves lined the walls, filled to the brim with ancient tomes and priceless manuscripts. The scent of aged paper and leather filled the air, mingling with the faint aroma of wood smoke from the crackling fireplace.

This is incredible, she breathed, her eyes wide with wonder. I've never seen so many books in one place.

William grinned, leading her towards a pair of plush armchairs nestled by the fire. The Ashton family has always valued knowledge and learning. This library is a testament to that legacy.

As they settled into the chairs, William leaned forward, his expression growing serious. Lila, there's something I need to ask you. The desk that brought you here - do you remember anything about it? Any markings or symbols that stood out to you?

Lila furrowed her brow, trying to recall the details of the antique desk. There were intricate carvings along the edges, and a strange symbol on the top drawer. It looked like an hourglass, but with something written around it in a language I couldn't understand.

William's eyes widened, a flicker of recognition crossing his face. The Tempus Fugit, he murmured, more to himself than to Lila. I should have known.

The Tempus Fugit? Lila repeated, confusion etched on her features. What does that mean?

William sighed, running a hand through his dark hair. It's Latin for 'time flies.' The hourglass is a symbol associated with our secret society, the Guardians of the Hourglass. And the desk - it's one of the most powerful artifacts in our possession.

Lila's mind raced, trying to process this new information. So, the desk is like a time machine? And your society uses it to protect the flow of time?

William nodded, his expression grave. "In a way, yes. The desk has the power to transport individuals through time, but it's not a power to be taken lightly. Altering the past