Chapter Four
“Are you certain Mrs. Dove-Lyon will approve?” Louise stood in front of the cheval glass in the corner of the room. She never had an occasion to wear a ballgown, not a ballgown like this one, and now? She found it difficult to look at the woman in the mirror and not feel like an imposter. Was it really her?
“Yes, Miss Hartfield. She originally thought a brown or gray gown would highlight your chestnut hair and hazel eyes. But when we both saw this dark green gown with a hint of a yellow cast, we knew it was the right one for the occasion. Now that I see you in it, I know we made the right decision.”
Louise hadn’t averted her gaze from her reflection in the looking glass, unable to believe she was the person staring back at her.
“This is the last item.” Helena handed her a beautiful green and black bejeweled mask.
She looked at Helena, an unspoken question hanging in the air.
“For this project, everyone is to be anonymous. What better way than to wear a mask? You will find it quite liberating.” Helena helped her fix the mask in place, then stepped back.
“Before we go to Mrs. Dove-Lyon, she asked that I give you this. For your pleasure.” Helena handed her a silk pouch.
Louise opened the pouch and found unique Lyon’s Den chips in a variety of denominations.
“It’s more fun if you have something at stake. We best get on our way. I’ll walk with you back to the salon.”
They walked down the corridor and came to the salon’s door where Helena put her hand on the latch, ready to open it. “Enjoy the evening.”
Louise grabbed Helena’s hand. “Aren’t you coming inside with me?” Even she heard the panic in her voice.
“You will be fine. You have nothing to worry about.” Helena opened the door. Louise hesitated briefly.
“I will be near should you need me.” Helena offered an encouraging smile before she stepped to the side. “Enjoy the evening,” she said once again.
Louise took a nervous step inside and came to an abrupt halt. A gentleman in evening clothes stood at the hearth, poking the fire.
“Bessie.” He turned and froze. “I beg your pardon, my lady. I expected Mrs. Dove-Lyon.”
“That is quite all right, my lord. So did I.” Frozen in place, she didn’t know what to do.
The click of a door latch grabbed both Louise’s and the gentleman’s attention. Their gazes darted toward the opening door on the side wall.
“There you are, Louise.” Mrs. Dove-Lyon entered. “You look lovely. Green becomes you.”
“Thank you, Mrs. Dove-Lyon.” Louise nodded politely and took a deep breath and ordered her body to relax.
Mrs. Dove-Lyon turned to the gentleman. “Nathaniel, you’ve arrived just in time. You are well disguised. I don’t ever remember you with a full beard. It is quite becoming.”
“Thank you.” He nodded his acknowledgment with grace and a mischievous smile. “It saves me time in the morning.”
Louise’s eyes widened in surprise as she covered her mouth, stifling a giggle that escaped her mouth. Her shoulders eased as she glanced at him. A genuine smile tugged at her lips; his unexpected, witty response alleviated any tension.
His mask and beard did a good job of concealing him. Not that she would know who he really was, although, from the way he held himself and his casual manner with Mrs. Dove-Lyon, she had the impression that he gave orders rather than took them. He was impeccably dressed in the height of fashion. The fit of his clothes bespoke the tailoring of Henry Poole, the most esteemed gentleman’s tailor in London. That meant that he must be someone of… A spark of enlightenment overtook her. Perhaps he was dressed in the same manner as she was, in borrowed clothing. And here, she had made a judgment on what he wore and not who he was. This project was becoming more intriguing by the moment.
“Your masks must be worn at all times during this project. Titles and surnames will not be used, only given names.” She turned to Louise. “That includes when you address me.”
“Louise,” Bessie said. “I am pleased to introduce you to Nathaniel. He is the creator of the project. He is investigating if his theory is plausible.”
“Nathaniel, this is Louise, a creative and open-minded woman who will be helping you.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Nathaniel.” She dipped a small curtsy.
“The pleasure is mine, Louise.” He tilted his head and nodded.
“Excellent. Now that we have the introductions out of the way, let me give you both a bit more clarity on what lies ahead.” She handed them each a glass of champagne.
Nathaniel’s striking appearance was a blend of aristocratic elegance and a casual presence. His fine athletic build hinted at his physical abilities. Through his black mask, she saw deep, intelligent blue eyes that hinted at mystery and vulnerability. Similar to the man she had encountered. She quickly put that thought aside.
He was definitely someone she would admire from afar. Yet, here he was speaking with her as if… as if she was a woman of circumstance, one who dressed for the evening, and not the woman who created the dresses women wore to the event. Rather than feel out of place, the glittery mask gave her the strength to be herself, rather than the unseen seamstress her position required.
“The project we’re embarking on is unique, one that focuses on fostering connections without the concerns of propriety and society’s expectations. You, Louise, have qualities that make you an asset in this journey.”
“And what about—”
“Nathaniel? How does he fit in? He has a strategic mind and an understanding of the dynamics at play. He will be your guide, and you will be partners in observing and making your own connections.”
“I understand.” She glanced at Nathaniel, who finished his wine. “A challenge that digs beneath the surface, seeking the essence of genuine interactions.”
She noticed his eyes widen in surprise. A surge of confidence washed over her.
“Well put, Louise. I knew you’d grasp the concept effortlessly.” Bessie smiled warmly at her.
Nathaniel glanced at Louise with interest. “Indeed, Bessie’s faith in your abilities is not misplaced.”
Bessie bit the sides of her cheek, trying not to laugh. “I think it best that I leave you two to discuss the project. You will be working closely together, and it is best you know what to expect. If connections are to be made, you both will lead by example. We are hoping this strategy will encourage others to do the same. As you build your connection, you will observe the reactions of those around you and if they do the same. Keep in mind, you are making the rules as you both see fit.”
With her farewell, they both watched as Bessie left the room.
“I see what Bessie means. We are alone together, breaking one of the most sacred of rules.” Louise fussed with her skirt, not because anything was wrong with it, but out of nervousness.
“I promise to stay on my side of the room.” Nathaniel smiled, and she couldn’t help but smile back. “If you stay on your side.”
Louise let out a breath and calmed herself. “I promise.”
“Good. I was sincere when I said Bessie has spoken highly of you.”
“I’m a bit miffed. I’m here to assist and work closely with you. Doing what exactly?” She put down her glass and folded her hands in her lap.
He glanced at her untouched wine and smiled. “Allow me to clarify.”
Louise’s heart fluttered. For a moment, she thought she had seen the smile before but pushed the thought aside. Even behind a mask, the man was quite handsome, but when he smiled… she had no words to describe him. And her head wasn’t easily turned but perhaps it was the evening, the gown, her surroundings, and the striking man across from her that gave her his full attention.
“We are embarking on a challenge, Louise, to foster genuine connections between individuals of different backgrounds. You, with your perceptive nature, will play a crucial role in this.”
“Yes, so I’ve been told, but what do I need to do?”
“There will be a variety of situations and challenges that will allow us to test the theory that without titles and surnames, we will be able to interact in a natural way, without concern. It will be a relief not to follow the absurd rules of the ton. There are people one must keep at a distance, not because they are dishonorable, but because of their station—whether they have a title or are in service, a tradesman, or a farmer.”
She stared at him, trying to see beyond his mask. What he said was profound and true.
“The first challenge is a card game, whist. It’s a high-stakes and strategic game. Do you know how to play?
Louise nodded. “I’m familiar with the game. I play whist with my father.”
“Good. I will need you to observe and interact with the participants. Watch for any tells, a physical reaction that precedes their play, or if you notice patterns in our opponents’ behavior that could indicate when they are bluffing or have a strong hand. This will give us the upper hand and help us not only win the game but also see how well we connect as a team as well as with our opponents.”
“Do you use any means of communication?” Louise eyed him cautiously.
“I don’t use hand signals or code words if that’s your question. I use the bids as a signal. Bidding one trick means I have a mixed hand, some high and some low cards. Bidding two tricks indicates I have mostly low cards. Bidding three tricks tells you I have mostly high value cards.”
Louise’s forehead wrinkled deep in thought. “Card games and connections? That’s an interesting combination.”
“Indeed, it is.” Nathaniel laughed. “And I have a feeling you’ll navigate it splendidly.”
“I’ll do my best,” she said softly.
He extended his arm toward her, a subtle, yet sincere, gesture. “That’s all I can ask,” he murmured, his voice carrying a warmth that settled pleasantly within her.
“It’s time we faced our adversaries. Bessie has secured the private gambling room for us. I believe punctuality is in our favor.”
Louise and Nathanielstood at the door to the private gambling room. He leaned close to her, momentarily startled by her sweet fragrance.
“Play the game. You know it well. Forget about everything else,” he whispered, his voice barely perceptible over the din around them.
She glanced down at her shoes, her lips twitching as she bit the side of her cheek to suppress a smile. With a steadying breath, she lifted her face and met his gaze.
“I will do my best. You do yours,” Louise murmured, her voice carrying a note of resolve as they locked eyes. Deep down, she knew they were in this together, and she was determined to hold up her end of the bargain.
They stepped into a room of understated luxury and the faint hum of anticipation. Helena stood beside the table.
The room was elegantly appointed. The candlelight cast a glow on the rich wood paneling and plush furnishings. An intricately carved card table sat in the center of the room. Stacks of several decks of playing cards waited, ready for the game to begin.
“Louise, Nathaniel. This is Reginald and his wife, Isla.” Helena made the introductions.
Reginald, in a black mask, was a distinguished gentleman in his early thirties with salt-and-pepper hair. His commanding presence and air of confidence gave the impression he was going to be a formidable opponent.
Isla wore a white lace mask that matched the trim of her gown. A graceful woman about the same age as her husband, with striking auburn hair and expressive brown eyes, she was charming and sophisticated. The two looked like a well-honed pair.
“Both teams have read the rules of the house as well as the rules of this game,” Helena continued. She poured four glasses of champagne and handed them out. Louise politely declined hers with a gracious nod.
“Are there any questions?”
Helena glanced at Nathaniel.
“None here.” Nathaniel settled Louise in her chair and then took his seat across from her.
“None here either,” Reginald and Isla took their seats.
Helena held out the cards, face down, for everyone to pick a card. “Ah, Reginald, you have an ace. You will deal.” She gathered the cards and handed him a fresh deck, then took a seat at the side of the room.
The atmosphere was charged with the promise of a spirited match, where the cards and strategy would reveal the true nature of the players.
Their challenger’s faces showed friendly competition, projected an abundant amount of confidence, and displayed a solid partnership. As a married couple, they were already connected.
Having just met, Louise followed Nathaniel’s lead with shared glances and understanding nods.
The game began with calculated bids, strategic plays, and occasional laughter. Louise and Nathaniel’s partnership grew increasingly seamless, with each anticipating the other’s moves.
Isla glanced over at Louise with a friendly smile. “Quite the game we’ve got going on tonight, isn’t it?” she remarked, her tone amiable.
Louise returned the smile, nodding in agreement. “Yes, it’s certainly lively. It’s my first time here, and I’m finding it quite fascinating.”
Isla’s eyes sparkled with interest. “Is that so? Well, welcome to the Lyon’s Den! It’s always a thrill to see new faces joining in the excitement.”
Louise offered a grateful smile. “Thank you, it’s quite an experience,” she admitted. “It certainly is exhilarating.”
Isla laughed softly, a musical sound that echoed through the room. “Oh, you’ll get used to it in no time,” she assured Louise. “Just relax and relish the excitement. After all, where else can you find such thrills and excitement?”
Louise focused on the game, projecting an air of confidence despite her wariness. She reminded herself to maintain her composure in the face of the challenge, a lesson learned from years of navigating interactions with those outside her social circle. It would take some doing for her to get accustomed to this project, or challenge, as Nathaniel called it. At the moment, she relied on what Nathaniel told her: Play the game. You know it well. Forget about everything else.
“Your turn,” Louise said softly, her gaze locked on Nathaniel.
“The jack of hearts.” Nathaniel placed the card down with an air of confidence that insinuated he was fully aware that this play would secure them the trick.
The opening rounds raced by; the anticipation intensified with each card played as they swept toward the end of the game until the final hand. The room was charged with an almost suffocating tension that gripped the players.
She and Nathaniel were locked in a fierce battle against Reginald and Isla. The wagers reached far beyond those of a simple card game. The two teams had each contributed a substantial sum into the pot, creating an atmosphere that crackled with anticipation, heightening the excitement of the game. The first hand of the final game was dealt out.
Isla passed on the bidding.
“I’ll bid one trick,” Louise calmly announced, her eyes flickering with determination as she added money to the pot.
Reginald gave them a benign glance while Isla pursed her lips.
Although Reginald tried to contain himself, it was obvious from his smug expression that he would not let the bid stand.
“I’ll bid three tricks.” Reginald doubled the pot.
Reginald’s bid meant a total of nine tricks out of the thirteen had to be completed to win the game.
Louise regarded Reginald with a neutral expression, another skill she refined from years of playing whist with her father. Though she found the game enjoyable, she couldn’t help but wonder how playing whist contributed to Nathaniel’s challenge.
Throughout their play, both teams were fully engrossed in the game, their focus well-honed as they crafted their strategies and analyzed every move. The wagers had been raised, and the amount of money for the hand had grown even larger, making a victory all the more exhilarating. To Louise, they were two congenial teams engaged in a rather high-stakes game.
Bessie quietly slipped into the room and sat next to Helena, her presence unnoticed.
“I’ll call house rules,” Nathaniel said firmly. “I challenge your bid.” He turned to Louise as he doubled the pot. “If Reginald and Isla do not make their contract of nine tricks, their financial loss will double. If they do make their bid, we pay them double.”
Louise’s lips parted slightly, a subtle gasp escaping at Nathaniel’s bold move. Despite her surprise, she regained her composure, her doubts allayed when she met Nathaniel’s unwavering determined gaze. Without a word, she nodded subtly, silently acknowledging his action.
Reginald’s eyes gleamed with excitement at Nathaniel’s wager. He didn’t try to hide the competitive spark the wager ignited in him. With a confident grin, Reginald exchanged a glance with Isla, who nodded her agreement.
Reginald confidently tapped the table with his finger and accepted Nathaniel’s challenged bid.
Nathaniel led with the ace of spades. The small gambling room buzzed with anticipation.
Louise kept a stoic expression, for the outcome could either bring immense gain or heartbreaking loss. The calculation was simple. They didn’t have to win the majority of tricks. All they had to do was win five tricks to prevent Reginald and Isla from winning.
With each passing round, the strain in the room grew thicker. Reginald and Isla’s lead had become undeniable, and it appeared that victory was slipping away from Nathaniel and Louise along with a great deal of money.
“Your turn,” Louise prompted, her heart pounding as she decided which of the two cards that remained in her hand to play next.
“King of hearts.” Nathaniel played his card, his decision sending ripples of speculation through the room. The wager for the hand was at its peak, the stakes higher than ever.
“That might be what we were looking for,” Reginald whispered to his wife, their excitement barely contained.
Isla attempted to conceal her grin. “It appears Nathaniel made an egregious error.”
Louise, ever sharp, recognized Nathaniel’s mistake and said nothing.
Reginald quietly placed the ace of hearts on top of the king, edging closer to sealing their victory. Reginald and Isla won the eighth trick.
This was the last trick of the game. Reginald and Isla had eight tricks while Nathaniel and Louise had only won four. Whoever took this trick won the game.
The tension in the room was suffocating. Reginald wiped his brow, poured another brandy, and studied the single card in his hand. He tossed the king of clubs onto the table.
Nathaniel played his last card, the three of clubs, and Reginald began to reach for the cards, but Louise’s hand halted his advance. The room fell into a hushed silence, every eye fixed on her.
She stared at Reginald, determination in her eyes as if she had some audacious plan up her sleeve.
Louise placed the deuce of spades on the table, securing the final trick and sealing the game for her and Nathaniel.
The room erupted in astonishment and disbelief as the realization dawned. The once seemingly lost game had turned into a triumph of epic proportions.
“How is that possible? I counted all the spades,” Reginald questioned, his voice echoing Isla’s.
Bessie hurried to the table.
“Is there something amiss, Reginald?”
She turned over his tricks and rummaged through them. The deuce of spades was not there.
“May I?” she asked Nathaniel.
He gestured for her to look.
She turned over his tricks and rummaged through them. Here, too, she did not find the deuce of spades.
“Forgive me. You and Louise played an excellent game. I will settle our account with the Abacus Woman.” Reginald finished his drink, adding the challenge money to what was already on the table, and then took up his remaining chips.
“You both played a good game. Perhaps you’ll grant me a chance to recoup my losses,” Reginald said with a friendly smile as he shook Nathaniel’s hand. “We must play again soon. I play a weekly game at my club. If you’re available on Wednesday evenings, come to Whites. You’ll always be welcome.”
“It was truly an exciting game. We must sit and get to know each other.” Isla faced Louise, their eyes meeting. “I’m hosting an annual party for women only. Be prepared for an invitation, and I will not take no for an answer.”
“Reginald, Isla, come with me. I will take you to Lina myself. Then you can join me for a private dinner.”
“That is gracious, Bessie. A private dinner with you is better than winning at whist.” The three left the room, chatting about the game.
The winning trick was still on the table.
“Well played, Louise. I’m surprised you didn’t play that card earlier.”
“It’s amazing how a small deuce can make a difference in the outcome. Once you cleared your hand of the high cards, I knew the spade would be valuable.”
“You made a swift recovery from my error. I am grateful you are on my side.” He offered her a warm smile and a nod of appreciation.
She met his gaze, her eyes reflecting her appreciation. “Isla licked her lips whenever she thought she had the winning card. And she looked at Reginald and pursed her lips when she thought he had the winning card.”
“You are observant.” He stepped back slightly as a flicker of admiration crossed his features, and a hint of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips.
“It’s all in the spirit of teamwork.” She smiled and took the cards, shuffled them, and put them in their place while he collected their winnings. “Indeed. A partnership requires trust and the ability to adapt.”
Nathaniel’s gaze lingered on Louise for a moment longer than necessary. Her words echoed in his mind: a partnership requires trust and the ability to adapt. Nathaniel realized that their collaboration, working together as equals, had the potential to be more than just a game.
His gaze widened. “And perhaps quick thinking.”
They were quiet for a few minutes.
“I didn’t expect the challenge to be so exhilarating.” Louise ran her hand down her skirt at invisible wrinkles.
Nathaniel leaned back in his chair. “Life often surprises us, doesn’t it?”
Louise couldn’t hold back a chuckle. “It certainly does. It’s interesting how fate weaves its intricate threads to bring two souls together, often through the most unexpected twists. Do you agree?”
Nathaniel stared at her for a moment. Her words echoed in his head. “I do agree. May I speak candidly?” His tone was demanding but calm.
“Of course.” She was playacting. Pretending Nathaniel was her mysterious man. She let out a sigh, then her smile vanished, replaced by focused interest.
“I’ve noticed something intriguing during this brief partnership. Your observations, your insights—they’re remarkable.”
“Remarkable?” Her eyes were wide in surprise.
“Yes, you’re remarkable. It’s… refreshing, and I’m looking forward to our next challenge.”
“I enjoyed the game as well, especially since we won. But I’m not sure about the purpose of this challenge.”
“This was a rehearsal for both of us. I think it went splendidly well. You not only won the card game, but you also got an invitation to Isla’s party. Many a woman has wanted to attend Isla’s private parties, but the invitations are carefully metered out. Our challenge is making connections. We’ve been asked for another game, and you have been given a unique invitation. We have been very successful with our first challenge.”
“Yes, I understand what you mean.” Louise nodded, confirming her words.
“Then we’re in agreement.” He sat back, relaxed, and smiling. “We’re both ready for tomorrow evening’s challenge.”
Louise struggled tomaintain her composure, but she was certain he could hear her heart beating. She should have known when she had her first glimpse of his eyes, those captivating blue eyes. She couldn’t help but wonder whether destiny played a role in “bringing two souls together,” even if it was through a simple chance encounter. Could her mystery man have grown a beard as a disguise? Nathaniel had to be the gentleman who bumped into her when she arrived at Bessie’s. He had to be.
Why was she so obsessed with the man? He was simply being cordial. Nothing else. Then she thought, no, he was more than cordial, but this back and forth in her head was making her more confused. She really must stop looking for her mystery man in every gentleman she encountered. She needed to be in the present moment and pay attention to the one she was with, even if it was contrived.
Louise rose from her chair. Nathaniel did the same.
“We should celebrate our victory. A glass of champagne, perhaps? Bessie has arranged for a private area for us to meet several people for refreshments.” He offered her his arm.
She placed her hand on his offered arm. They went down a long hall that led past the gardens to the private room at the far end of the building.
“I like this room,” Nathaniel said, a pleasant shine to his face. “It has a wonderful view of Green Park and Hyde Park in the distance.”
They entered the room, and to her surprise, everyone was masked. There were some women who faded into the background, but there were others, vibrant and verbal, who thrived in the atmosphere.
Nathaniel procured two flutes of champagne from a footman and handed one to Louise. As he drank champagne and she took a sip or two of hers, Louise couldn’t help but think of the intrigue and uncertain circumstances surrounding Nathaniel. Being part of a project that encouraged genuine connections was thrilling. Perhaps too thrilling.
He was attentive and friendly, not only to her but the others in the room, and put her at ease. Louise concluded that Nathaniel was a self-confident man who was not threatened by a woman who could think and hold a conversation. He valued her thoughts and insights. He remained calm under pressure and took no offense at being corrected or, in her case, bailed out of a sticky situation.
She was intrigued by his steady, calming presence, and as she observed him interact with others, she recognized he had a similar effect on them. Engaging and inclusive, he effortlessly drew her into conversations. Initially concerned about being a wallflower with nothing to say, she found he led the conversation in directions that were stimulating, interesting, and included her.
She studied the masked people around them. Some had the air of a lord, perhaps even a prince, but most of the others were polite guests interacting with one another.
How easily she fit in. And with him. She leaned a bit closer and listened as Nathaniel and another gentleman spoke about the vintage of the champagne. She finished what was left in her glass.
“Here, let me refresh your glass,” Nathaniel said to her, then glanced at the gentleman. “Please excuse us.”
“Of course. If you don’t refresh the lovely lady’s glass, I will.” The man raised his glass and, with a nod, turned and was gone.
“I hope you’re enjoying the evening.” Nathaniel gazed at her as she stifled a yawn. “Perhaps I should leave.”
The angst in his wrinkled brow reinforced how she felt. Neither of them wanted the evening to end.
“You can’t leave now.” Louise’s voice carried a hint of alarm.
“Why not?” A touch of concern etched on his face.
“I would much rather you refresh my glass than the other gentleman.” She glanced to the side. He followed her gaze and nodded at the gentleman. “The gentleman with mischievous green eyes.”
“That is not a gentleman. That is Richard. And before you ask, I have no intention of introducing you to him. I am keeping you all to myself.” He plucked two more champagne glasses from a passing footman, leaving him with their empty ones.
“Thank you for the fine evening.” He ignored his friend Richard, who raised his glass in a silent salute. Nathaniel turned his attention to Louise. “I’m looking forward to tomorrow’s challenge.”
“Which is? You’ve conveniently kept it from me.” She was getting accustomed to his teasing manner. Louise knew from dealing with her father that pestering him for an answer would only keep him from giving her the information. But silence. Ah, her father couldn’t wait to surrender the information she sought. Was Nathaniel similarly inclined?
“A private ball. Bessie is not telling me much about the invitation list other than it will be quite unique. She is like Voltaire, reaching out to writers, historians, philosophers, as well as tradespeople and farmers. You will be surprised at who you will be speaking to, but that is the purpose of the project.”
Once again, Louise stifled a yawn. Nathaniel hooked her arm in his and led her into the hall.
“Thank you for a lovely and profitable evening. Lina, the Abacus Lady, has your portion of our winnings.”
“But I didn’t—”
He pressed his finger against her lips and silenced her. “Hush. Not a word. We wouldn’t have won if it wasn’t for you. You are an equal partner. That is part of the challenge.”
“And what if we had lost? How would I pay my debt?” She gave him an innocent look, her gaze lingering on his softened eyes.
“I would have thought of something that would’ve pleased both of us,” he whispered in her ear. He stepped back. “I will see you tomorrow evening.”
She met his teasing with a playful glint in her eyes and a hint of a smile.
“Thank you for a most enjoyable evening.” He took her hand and kissed it. “Until tomorrow.”
Boyet opened the door for him, and he was gone.