Chapter 1
CHAPTER 1
“ H ave you remembered to pack your shawl, Marian?” Lady Prudence inquired from within the main drawing room, her voice projecting the well-known tone of maternal authority that Marian had come to know so well throughout her childhood. Marian rolled her eyes — a gesture she was glad she could perform away from her mother’s observant gaze. “Yes, Mother,” she called back. “Lydia did write to caution that the evenings at the Fyre estate can be quite chilly.”
She placed the soft, wool shawl into her trunk with care. The scent of honeysuckle that clung to the fabric brought with it a soothing familiarity that spoke of home. She flattened the detailed stitching, her fingers resting on the borders as if the simple act could anchor her in the comfort that she was about to depart from.
“Diana, do you think this blue suits my gown better, or should I rather go with the green?” In the corner, Jane was organizing a selection of ribbons, her brow furrowed in concentration.
Diana looked up from her book, her serene demeanor always apparent. “The blue better complements your eyes, I think,” she said softly, her voice barely raising above the sound of rustling pages.
“Oh, you are right!” Jane squealed, her voice tight with satisfaction. She turned toward Marian with a teasing sparkle in her eye. “What about you, sister? Which ribbon would you select if you cared for…such things?”
Marian smiled faintly, smoothing the folds of her gown. “Do you mean fashion or attending social events, Jane?”
Jane smirked slightly at her older sister. “I mean the ribbon.”
“Then I would choose whichever makes me the least noticeable.”
Jane huffed in response. “Honestly, Marian. You could at least try to be more interested. You are aware that this trip is supposed to be a respite, not a punishment?”
Marian opened her mouth to respond but was interrupted by their father, the Viscount of Drownshire, entering the room. His commanding presence was softened by a warm smile. “Are we almost ready to depart, ladies? You cannot expect the carriage to wait forever.”
“Just finishing up, Father,” Marian replied as she snapped her own trunk shut. Lady Prudence entered then, her eyes sweeping over her daughters with a sense of pride and anticipation. “Remember girls, this is a very important visit.” She shot a sharp look in Marian’s direction. “I trust you will all be on your best behavior.”
Marian knew very well that her mother meant the comment more towards her than her sisters. She nodded and said, “Of course, Mother.”
“Very well, then. Now, let’s go, quickly ladies!” Prudence instructed, her hands delicately guiding Diana, who had gone back to her reading.
The carriage’s magnificently lacquered sides caught the bright morning sunlight, gleaming invitingly, waiting for the Brandon family as they stepped out of their home and into the morning air. The coachman fumbled with the reins as four immaculately groomed horses pounded their massive hooves in anticipation. The delicate whiff of luxury perfume that accompanied the ladies marred with the milder aromas of sweat and hay, creating a more earthy mood. The sunlight created dappled shadows through the colossal trees that lined the front of the estate’s driveway, casting an inviting show of light that made Marian wish she could be curled up under a tree, reading a book, rather than sitting off on a carriage journey with her family. Her father called for them to hurry up, and Marian’s mind settled upon the voyage ahead and the delights that lay in store at the Fyre Manor.
As the sound of hooves on the cobblestone driveway and the quiet creak of the carriage door indicated their departure, the house they had left behind gradually receded into the distance.
A little while into their journey, Jane and Diana started arguing, and within no time, the debate got heated. Judging by their father’s frown, Marian decided she had to intervene. “Jane,” she said, her tone firm but not unkind, “do stop bickering, we have quite a way to go still, and you shall drive us all mad at this rate.”
“I am not bickering,” Jane huffed, her dark curls bouncing as she turned to face her sister. “She stole my blue ribbon, the one that matches my bonnet — the very same one I had specially trimmed for the Baroness of Vander’s garden party. You know how particular Lady Vander is about appearances, Diana, and now, my look will be incomplete —”
“I borrowed it,” Diana said softly, peering over the top of her romance novel towards her twin. “And I believe I returned it. It is not my fault if you cannot find it. Besides,” she added with deliberate nonchalance, “I rather thought you had given up on the idea of impressing Lord Robert Ashworth after that disastrous incident with the punch bowl at the Hastings assembly.”
Jane’s cheeks flashed a deep scarlet. “That has absolutely nothing to do with —”
“Girls,” their mother’s voice, sharp as the crack of a whip, sliced through the air, “this is something you should have figured out before we left the house. Honestly, you will give your father an apoplexy before we have even properly begun our journey.”
“When we reach the inn,” Marian chimed in, offering a conciliatory smile, “I shall check the trunks myself, Jane, and no doubt you will find your ribbon exactly where Diana left it — though perhaps in future, Diana, you might ask first before borrowing what isn’t yours.”
Jane muttered something incoherent while Diana promptly returned to her reading. Marian suppressed a sigh, the corners of her mouth twitching slightly upwards, despite her best efforts. She peered at their father, who sat in the corner of the carriage, eyeing the women in his life with an endeared smile. His concern for the family’s image had always remained unwavering, and it was this that drove Lady Prudence’s nervous energy and Jane’s aspirations to outshine every other young lady at every gathering they attended.
“And Marian,” Lady Prudence said, pulling her back to the present with her sharp tone, laced with expectation, “you must endeavor to make a good impression at the gathering. Lydia’s marriage to the duke has done much for our family’s standing, but you cannot expect to rest on your sister’s laurels forever. Our visit is not just about seeing your sister; it is also about seeing you married before another season ends.”
“I was not aware that I had been,” Marian replied smoothly, earning a disapproving glance from her mother.
Jane and Diana exchanged knowing looks before Jane nudged her sister playfully. “Do not worry, Marian. I am sure some dashing gentleman will sweep you off your feet at the ball.”
“I shall do my best to remain standing, thank you,” Marian replied with a hint of amusement in her voice.
Later that afternoon, the carriage jolted as they crossed a narrow bridge, and the inn where they would spend the night came into view. It stood at a crossroads of two main thoroughfares, the weathered woodwork bearing the scars of the many weary souls who had sought refuge within its ancient walls. It was a modest establishment, but the soft glow of lamplight spilling from its quaint windows made it appear welcoming. By the time the carriage came to a stop before the main entrance, the sun had begun its descent, casting long shadows over the cobblestones of the courtyard.
Being the first to step out, Marian took a deep breath, noticing the fragrance of hay and leather that floated through the air A stable boy hurried over to tend to the horses, and Marian glanced around, her sharp gaze taking in the bustle of travelers coming and going.
“Finally!” Jane said with a huff, stepping down from the carriage with dramatic flair. “I thought we would never stop!”
“It is only for one night,” Marian reminded her as she tucked an errand strand of hair back into her bonnet.
Jane and Diana exchanged a mischievous glance. “Oh, but Marian,” Jane continued, her tone saccharine, “surely you are not looking forward to another party? Just think of all the stuffy dances and endless discussions about eligible gentlemen. I am sure there will be no shortage —”
“What I look forward to,” Marian said, shooting her sister a wry smile, “is seeing Lydia again. That is all.”
The sky turned a deep shade of dark purple as the Brandon family all made their way inside the Inn. Inside, the fire in the hearth provided warmth and a welcoming atmosphere as it crackled cheerfully, casting flashes of golden light on the wooden beams. The buzz of conversation from the common room contributed to the lively environment, a stark contrast to the serene quiet of Drownshire Manor.
“My Lord and Ladies,” the innkeeper greeted them heartily as they headed up the stairs, “I am pleased to have you here. Your rooms are ready upstairs. If you need anything else, just call out!” He was a robust man with a ruddy face and a wide grin.
“This should suffice; it is, after all, only one night,” Lady Prudence remarked with a tight face as she examined their chambers with a discerning eye. “Let us pray we get a decent night’s rest before proceeding to the Fyre estate in the morning.”
The sisters began unpacking in their shared room immediately while their parents retreated to their own room. Marian eyed the small room, noting how it was simple but clean. The room consisted of a small fireplace to warm up and three small beds with mattresses and thick covers as well as a small desk in the corner.
It was Jane who broke the silence first, her voice rising with panic. “Has anyone of you seen my glove? It was here just a moment ago. I am sure of it!” Her movements grew increasingly frantic as she feverishly combed through her possessions.
As she sat by the window, Diana let out a sigh, her book cradled in her lap. “Perhaps it slipped your fingers as you arrived. Really, Jane, you ought to be more careful.”
Jane shot back with impressive speed. “I am careful,”
“It is just a glove.” Diana said, rolling her eyes at her twin’s dramatics.
“It is not just a glove; it is my favorite one!” Jane wailed. “I cannot attend the party with only one glove!” Her face flushed as she shot a hopeless look at Marian. “Have you seen it?”
Marian calmly shook her head in disagreement. “No, but I will help you find it. Stay here; I will be back soon.”
Jane’s gaze darted toward the door, doubt flickering across her face. “Are you sure? It will certainly be dark outside, and…”
“Be cautious, Marian,” Diana said, finishing her sister’s sentence. “We do not know the types of people who are lodging here.”
Marian gave a reassuring smile. “I will be just fine.” She wrapped her shawl snugly around her shoulders, the fabric’s weight providing a comforting shield against the evening’s chill. Entering the corridor, the gentle radiance of the lanterns created elongated shadows on the walls, their wavering light directing her movements as she went down the staircase. The wooden stairs groaned softly beneath her feet, each noise heightened by the stillness that enveloped her.
The pale lights from the low-hanging lanterns scarcely illuminated the gravel pathway as Marian’s eyes darted across her surroundings. There was something about the stillness that made her straighten her spine and quicken her pace. This was not the time to entertain idle fears. She made her way toward the ancient oak tree guarding the front door to the inn, and there, she caught sight of something that seemed out of place. She quickly walked toward it and knelt, reaching down. Marian felt the cool, familiar leather of the lost glove between her fingertips and sighed in relief. Though her mother was apprehensive about staying at the inn for one night before continuing on to her sister’s estate, Marian found it refreshing. It stirred something deep within her — a sense of restlessness, a yearning for adventure.
She straightened, her smile one of triumph as she brushed a stray lock of hair from her face. “Ah, there you are,” she murmured, her voice barely louder than the whisper of the breeze around her. Her relief was short-lived as a shadow moved at the edge of her vision, sending a ripple of danger down her spine. She turned sharply, her heart thundering in her chest as a tall figure emerged from the shadows, his silhouette illuminated by the faint glow of the lanterns. Marian’s smug smile vanished as the dark figure moved forward, the weak light showing just enough to define his tall body and the confident set of his broad shoulders.
“A lady wandering alone in the dark. Even I have to admit, that is rather bold.”
He stepped forward, and Marian’s breath caught in her throat. He was tall — easily a whole head taller than her — and his strikingly blue eyes sparkled even in the dim light.
“It seems I should pay better attention to my surroundings,” Marian replied, her tone carefully composed, despite the anxiety coursing through her veins.
“That much is clear,” he said lightly, his gaze lingering on her face a moment too long.
She straightened, brushing imaginary dust from her skirts. “I merely dropped something upon my arrival, My Lord,” she said, noticing his perfectly tailored coat that spoke of fine breeding. “Since I have managed to find it, I shall return to my chambers.”
The man moved closer still, and the scent of sandalwood and leather wafted from him, disarming her slightly. His eyes, glinting with interest, never left hers. “You should take better care to not place yourself in such dangerous situations, My Lady.”
Marian scoffed lightly, taking a step back. “I was not aware that the art of glove retrieval could become so treacherous.”
The corner of his mouth twitched, but there was an edge to him, a hint of something unruly in the curve of his lips. “It usually is not — unless, of course, there is someone lurking in the shadows, waiting to pounce.”
“If something as simple as retrieving a lost glove requires a chaperone, I shudder to think what perils await me in the ballroom.”
He chuckled at her wit. “That might be true, but one might question the wisdom of wandering around unattended when one could so easily run into a scoundrel around these parts.”
Marian tilted her chin upward, the smallest flicker of defiance in her gaze. “Well, then I must consider myself fortunate to have run into a gentleman instead,” she said, her voice cool despite the strange flutter in her stomach. She had no intention of allowing this stranger to unnerve her, no matter how unnervingly attractive he might be.
“A gentleman?” He laughed then, low and surprisingly warm, a sound that caught her off guard. “How generous of you to assume that I am one, My Lady.”
Marian’s pulse reached new speeds as she peered at him. He was mind-bogglingly handsome with a tall, sturdy frame, dark hair, and even darker blue eyes that crinkled at the corners when he smiled. And his smile — that alone was enough to make any young lady forget her bearings altogether.. “Was I wrong to do so, My Lord?”
He inclined his head, his expression unreadable. “I have not been called a gentleman by many, but for your sake, My Lady, I shall resolve myself to behave. Just for tonight.”
For a moment, the world seemed oddly still. His dark blue eyes held hers with an intensity that she was not prepared for. She retreated slightly, her blood thumping in her ears, the gap between them seemingly too large and too close all at the same time. She was both disturbed and fascinated by his intense stare and the slight smile that played at the corners of his mouth. She paused, her interest aroused even despite the warning bells in her mind.
“Why for my sake?” she asked, just a whisper against the night. The words tumbled from her lips before she could think to stop them.
His smile softened slightly. “Aren’t you an intriguing one? You should take greater care about what your words suggest, My Lady…or you might find yourself in the midst of…unwanted attention.”
Her pulse raced as she smoothed her skirt once again. “Well,” she said briskly, breaking the spell, “I should return…”
“A gentleman would offer to escort you back inside, but then again…” he teased, a playful smile playing upon his striking features. Marian noticed that his dark hair was slightly tousled. Before she could think to pull her hand away, he seized her hand, bringing it to his lips before saying, “This should leave a more lasting impression than a safe escort ever could.” Good night, My Lady.”
With that, he turned on his heel and vanished, leaving Marian alone with her breath racing and her mind whirling in curiosity and uncertainty. She rushed back inside, their conversation playing on a loop in her thoughts as she climbed the stairs of the inn. Who was the strange man? He certainly had the look of nobility about him. Why did he affect her so much? She shook her head, urging herself to calm down as she reached the door of their bedchamber.
“I have found your glove,” Marian proclaimed, raising it as she walked into the room. “I hope this means that we can put at least one of your arguments to rest.”
Jane’s expression brightened with relief. “Thank goodness! I thought I would never see it again.”
Diana smiled slightly at her older sister. “I am please you have returned safely, Marian. I was concerned. Did anything happen?”
Marian gave her a comforting smile, but remained silent, and instead headed over to the small desk in the corner. She pulled a piece of parchment from inside her sleeve, her fingers shaking slightly as she dipped the quill into the ink. She hesitated for the briefest of moments before saying, “Nothing of consequence,” though the words tasted strange in her mouth. Her movements were deliberate as she opened the parchment, its edges already worn from many re-readings. Her gaze fell on her list,
1. Have a romantic moment with a stranger.
2. Swim in a lake, or the ocean.
3. Go on an adventure.
4. Gamble, smoke, or drink.
5. Read Mary Wollstonecraft’s ‘A Vindication of the Rights of Women’.
6. Fall in lo Kiss someone.
She only hesitated for a fraction of a second before deciding to cross the first item off her list.
The moment outside had been intoxicating and fleeting — though not as grand as she had hoped — but it was hers .
Her sisters watched her curiously as she carefully folded up the paper again. “What are you writing?” Diana asked, leaning forward.
Marian shook her head, a faint smile playing at her lips. “Nothing. Just…jotting down something I wanted to remember.”
Curiosity burned bright in Diana’s eyes, but Marian slipped the list back into her sleeve and turned toward the bed. “It is late,” she said. “I will get us something to eat, and then we should all get some rest.”
Though Jane groaned in protest and Diana looked unconvinced, Marian was already heading back toward the common room.