July 1811

"Does it pain you, sir?" The physician inquired of Royston as he gently applied pressure to his elbow.

"Nay," replied Royston in a calm tone.

"And here?" The physician continued his examination.

"Nay," came the answer once more.

"Very well, my lord. I shall now remove the cloth, and I kindly request you to slowly extend your arm," the physician instructed.

As the cloth was set aside, Royston carefully extended his arm, feeling a slight resistance. Suddenly, a resounding pop echoed through the room, briefly startling him. However, to his great relief, his arm remained unharmed and devoid of any discomfort.

"Indeed, Lord Langdon, it appears your elbow has mended splendidly. Nevertheless, I would advise caution, for you may experience a sensation as if the arm is not entirely your own," the physician cautioned.

Royston expressed his gratitude with a nod of acknowledgement. With the obstruction now gone, he hastened to inform his mother, who was on the verge of departing with Mina for a visit to their neighbours.

"Pray, do you observe something, my dearest mother?" He inquired, his voice filled with mirth, a warm smile gracing his countenance as he raised both of his hands.

"Could it be, dear son, that you have added a touch of robustness from your leisurely pursuits at home these past weeks?" Polly quipped, her eyes twinkling mischievously. She then added, "I am most delighted to see your elbow has mended, bringing an end to your vexations, I hope."

Mina's lips quivered with suppressed amusement, and she struggled to maintain her composure. Royston, in response, affected a derisive tone and deftly changed the subject, asking, "Pray, may I inquire about your destination, my ladies?"

"We are on our way to pay a visit to the Dalloway residence for a cup of tea," Polly replied, her gloved hand gently encircling Mina's arm, signifying their intention to begin their stroll to the neighbouring house.

"Could I entreat to accompany you, mother?" Royston ventured.

The question took Polly by surprise, and it equally astonished Mina, given the tone of their recent exchange.

"Why not, Roy, I'm quite certain our esteemed neighbours would be most delighted to make the acquaintance of the elusive Viscount Sinclair at long last," Lady Langdon replied, a smile as gracious as her son's adorning her countenance as the trio set out on their leisurely promenade, with Mina positioned between them.

Royston simply shrugged his shoulders and replied, "Indeed, it is a splendid day, is it not? My elbow has mended, the requisite materials for the renovation are en route, and the plan nears its fruition. What more could a gentleman have earnestly prayed for? Even Miss Haswell appears to be rather tranquil this fine day."

Yet, in that fleeting moment when Mina felt as though she had evaporated into the ether in the company of mother and son, Royston felt compelled to jolt her back to reality.

"I am reserving my energy for the forthcoming visit to the Dalloways," Mina responded with composure, her gaze meeting Royston's with a hint of mischievousness. "Furthermore, there is a certain allure in relishing the day in silence. But, Lord Langdon, you should be aware of such pleasures, having been quite solitary in your renovation pursuit thus far. I do hope that your silence shall extend to your everyday affairs as well."

Polly couldn't help but flash a discreet smile at this playful jab, even as her son rolled his eyes in mock disdain. "I dare say, Miss Haswell, it is through challenges and trials that we may aspire to become the finest versions of ourselves," he responded, his sardonic undertone cleverly concealed beneath his eloquent words.

A soft chuckle escaped Mina's lips as she raised an arched eyebrow, her voice tinged with a hint of jest. "Lord Langdon, one might gather from your confident demeanour that you deem yourself the paragon of perfection, and it is no wonder, given your penchant for outspoken declarations."

Royston's grin widened, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "But, Miss Haswell, if we were to tally the mischievous exploits you've orchestrated against me so far, what insight might it offer into your own character?"

Before Mina could respond with one of her trademark witty rejoinders, Polly interjected, her tone tinged with a gentle reprimand. "Pray, my dear children, let us not indulge in this spirited banter any further. We are nearing the Dalloway estate, and I would prefer if you both arrived composed and untroubled by each other's provocations."

For some inexplicable reason, Mina's delicate cheeks took on a rosy blush, and Royston assumed a rather earnest countenance. As Polly astutely observed, they found themselves stepping over the threshold of the neighbouring estate within the next moment.

Mrs. Dalloway was a matronly lady in her fifth decade, much like Polly herself and she appeared on the verge of fainting at the sight of Royston. Meanwhile, Mr. Dalloway, despite his evident excitement, assumed the role of a steady anchor within the household, ensuring that refreshments were promptly served. His wife's constant chatter resembled the melodious trill of a songbird to Mina's ears, though, on this occasion, she was grateful not to be burdened with the responsibility of leading the conversation. Royston effortlessly transformed into the epitome of a charming gentleman, and Mina couldn't help but be astonished by this duality within him. A faint, contented smile graced her countenance, for she had grown accustomed to the Langdons' presence in her life.

However...

Something remained amiss, a void she couldn't quite define.

And that something eluded her like a wisp of a dream at daybreak, akin to the elusive little fish in the waters off St. Helens. Even the shyest of butterflies often graced her with their presence, landing gently upon her hair, yet this particular sensation, this feeling, remained an ephemeral visitor, fading into nothingness almost as soon as it touched her. And yet, she yearned for that fleeting emotion to be etched upon her heart once more.

As she later found herself seated beneath the ancient oak in the garden, lost in pensive contemplation while the sun dipped below the horizon, a familiar voice disrupted her reverie. "I couldn't help but notice that your countenance appears somewhat melancholic today. Have I unwittingly offended you?" Royston leaned casually against the gnarled oak; his inquisitive gaze fixed upon Mina. She did not lift her eyes to meet his, responding softly, "No, you have not."

Mina was not yet prepared to confide in Roy about her departed betrothed, even though he no longer appeared entirely unfamiliar to her. The melancholy that gripped her heart stemmed not only from the impending anniversary of Miles' passing but also from the anniversary of a wedding that fate had cruelly denied her.

The summer months cast a sombre hue upon her existence, serving as a stark reminder of the profound loss she had endured. In a twisted sense, she had lost her sister shortly after bidding farewell to her father. Now, faced with the prospect of losing the Langdons...

"I cannot bear the thought of parting from you or your mother," she whispered, her voice laden with emotion.

"Pardon?" Roy inquired, a hint of uncertainty in his voice whether he had heard her correctly.

"I said," Mina repeated, her gaze finally meeting his as a single tear traced a path down her delicate cheek, "I do not wish to lose you or your mother. Please, do not cast me aside nor send me away. I implore you, for I greatly dread the prospect of solitude."

Her great fright, evident in the trembling of her voice and the fear in her eyes, caused Royston's heart to ache deeply. He longed to offer Mina his comfort, with kind words whispered in her ear and delicate kisses bestowed upon her forehead, cheeks... and perhaps even her lips. Such an audacious notion sent a cold shiver through him.

"Good gracious, my dear," he began, his tone softened, "you have certainly provided me with ample reasons to send you away, yet I could never bring myself to do so."

She let out a soft, nervous giggle and delicately wiped away her tears, taking a determined, steadying breath. "Thank you."

"I have come this evening at my mother's request to enjoy her musical talents on the piano," he continued, a mischievous twinkle in his eye, "let us return and avoid any misunderstandings about our activities in this secluded spot," he added, offering her a playful smile.

She gracefully nodded, and moments later, they entered the opulent drawing room. Polly, adorned in a fashionable gown, was seated behind an exquisite grand piano, poised to commence her performance.

"Oh, at long last! I should inquire of you both, what were you doing in the garden," Polly began, her eyes sparkling with mirth, "but I'm far too eager to try this instrument! It underwent repairs just last week." With that declaration, she delicately struck the first few notes.

Mina, though initially unaware of the piano's deplorable condition, was beginning to realize that truly everything within this house bore the mark of neglect. It was a disheartening observation, but she concealed her disappointment. Instead, she directed her attention toward Polly's musical prowess, revelling in the enchanting melodies. Yet, even amidst the harmonious sounds, she couldn't escape the sensation of a lingering gaze upon her.

Goodness gracious, cease your unwavering scrutiny, she thought, her delicate features tinged with a hint of irritation, as her eyes met Royston's unapologetic gaze. I am quite certain he seeks fresh opportunities to vex me. She subtly shook her head in disagreement, but to no avail; Royston only responded with a sly smirk that graced his countenance, revealing his unyielding determination to engage in their customary banter once the situation allows it.

Once Polly finished her enchanting performance on the pianoforte, they both graciously applauded her talents, for she had proven herself a virtuoso in the art of music. Mina, however, found herself gripped by a sudden wave of anxiety. What was her own unique talent? What pastime could she excel in and showcase, just as Polly had done with her musical prowess?

"What a splendid composition, dear mother," Royston remarked with genuine admiration, his voice resonating with pride.

Lady Langdon acknowledged his compliment with a graceful nod and then turned her discerning gaze toward her offspring and Mina. "You see, my dears, I have received an invitation to an upcoming soirée where I shall perform. I insist that both of you accompany me as my chaperones."

Royston couldn't help but roll his eyes at the prospect, but Mina's face lit up with a radiant smile. "That's wonderful news, Polly! I would be delighted to be your companion at the soirée."

Never before had she been so eager to attend such a social event, but then again, how else was she to find herself in the presence of the esteemed Earl Westhaven once more? The prospect of encountering him again stirred a flutter of excitement within her, and she knew this soirée held the promise of romantic possibilities she had only dared to dream of.

"Very well, Mother," Royston replied with a heartfelt sigh, his reluctance to partake in social gatherings evident in his tone. He had never been one to relish such occasions, and the prospect of enduring another soirée, despite his adeptness at feigning charm, when necessary, filled him with a sense of dread.

On the evening of the following day, while Polly was diligently reviewing her musical repertoire and Mina was engrossed in the captivating tale within the pages of her book, Royston found himself unable to suppress the question that had been weighing on his mind for some time now.

"Miss Haswell," he began, choosing his words with care, "I beg your pardon for my audacity, but I am consumed by curiosity. Why, pray tell, have you not yet entered into the bonds of matrimony? Your patience in waiting is indeed commendable, but might there be some other reason, perhaps?"

Mina regarded him with arched brows, her gaze steady and unyielding. After a moment's contemplation, she responded with a hint of playful challenge, "Lord Langdon, I must inquire in return: why, in all your years, have you refrained from embracing the institution of marriage?"

A wry smile graced his visage. "I have not yet encountered a suitable match, my dear."

"Nor have I," she replied with a swift retort, demurely lowering her gaze to the pages of her novel.

"And what, Miss Haswell, do you perceive as the root of this conundrum?" he inquired, leaning in ever so slightly.

Mina cast her gaze upon him, her irritation evident at being disrupted from her literary endeavour. She squinted her chestnut eyes and retorted, "I would venture to guess that the conundrum lies between the strands of your coiffure and the tips of your boots."

A hearty chuckle escaped him, and even Polly, who had been feigning deep concentration on her notes, couldn't help but let a concealed smile grace her lips.

"My dear Miss Haswell, I was referring to your side of the equation."

"My dearest son, you are straying perilously close to impropriety," Lady Langdon interrupted, her countenance marked by concern. Her son, a striking figure with his golden locks, merely tilted his head in gentle disagreement.

"My beloved mother, let Miss Haswell have her say; she is under no obligation to respond if she so chooses."

Mina felt as though his intense gaze was etching itself into the very depths of her soul. Drawing a deep breath, she replied with the utmost composure she could muster, her voice as delicate as porcelain: "My father cherished my mother with an ardour that knew no bounds, and I shall settle for nothing less in my own marriage, Lord Langdon. I am resolved to either enter into a union where my heart shall harmonize with my husband's or embrace the freedom of a solitary existence. Each path possesses its own allure and its own perils, but I shall accept nothing less. I trust that explanation will suffice to quell your curiosity."

With her declaration made, Mina returned her gaze to the pages of her book, while Royston turned his attention to his mother, where he was met with a stern, warning expression.

Do not dare to utter a word, he could certainly discern upon her countenance.

"A fond match, huh?," he said and clicked his tongue, "Could I, nonetheless, engage your interest in a wager, Miss Haswell?"

Mina let out a gentle sigh, her hand firmly closing the pages of her book. It was clear that he would not release her from his attentions so easily. "Pray, my lord, what sort of wager do you have in mind?"

"You have, Miss Haswell, disclosed your inclination towards Earl Westhaven," he began, his voice taking on an alluring cadence, "What if I were to assist you in securing his hand in marriage, in exchange for your summer estate at St Helens?"

Mina's countenance assumed a pensive expression as she contemplated the proposition. "That is indeed a daring proposal, Lord Langdon. What, may I inquire, would be your stake in this venture?"

A sly smile graced Royston's lips as he replied, "Should you aid me in uniting Miss Whitcombe in holy matrimony, I shall pledge to provide you with three times the sum you inherited from your dearly departed father."

Mina's mind swirled with the tantalizing prospect of the wealth that would be bestowed upon her.

"It would enable you, perhaps, to secure not one, but perchance two splendid townhouses in the heart of London. So, what say you? Shall you consider my proposition?" he continued to charm her, even though she already had a fairly good notion of what such a sum might afford her.

And yet... what was that unsettling sensation, a pang that coursed through her when he uttered Eleanor's family name?

"I-I must take some time to contemplate your offer," she replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

"Ah, my dear, you cannot deny the allure of it," Royston remarked with a grin, while Mina shook her head in protest. "There is but one condition: you must succeed before my thirtieth birthday, while I must prevail before you are branded an official spinster. Naturally, you have a slightly more generous allotment of time, as my birthday falls after yours."

"The Almighty must greatly disapprove of your tendency to entice innocent maidens into the world of gaming, Lord Langdon."

"I could fetch you a rosary, my dear Miss Haswell if it would ease your conscience in striking a bargain with the devil," he replied in that mellifluous voice of his.

Mina stood resolute, gathering her thoughts for a moment before finally saying, "Very well, Lord Langdon, I accept your wager. Now, if you'll excuse me, I wish to complete my book by nightfall."

As she gracefully left the drawing room, Royston's countenance met with the concerned gaze of his mother, who had risen and approached her son, still reclined upon a divan, nonchalantly leaning on the armrest.

"This is the most confounding bet I've ever heard of, Roy. You are toying with the lives and emotions of people here! What madness possessed you to even entertain such an idea?" she chided.

Royston lowered his gaze and responded, "Why not, dear mother? It should only please you to witness two happy unions coming to fruition."

Polly sighed with a mixture of exasperation and concern. "This game of yours may exact a heavy toll, Royston. Mark my words, for they carry wisdom," she warned before retiring to her chamber.

Left alone with his thoughts, Royston mused inwardly, I am already paying dearly for it, and let out a weary sigh.