October 1811

Fortunately, Mina found herself spared from any further need to defend against the machinations of Kate Lansing, as that insufferable woman had already ensnared another unfortunate soul in her vices. Besides, Eleanor soon joined Mina for the customary promenade to a nearby river, where the Duke of Eldridge graciously invited the guests to partake in the pursuit of fishing. As they strolled along, Miss Whitcombe, her arm linked with Mina's, couldn't help but notice a certain discontent lingering in Lord Langdon's demeanour. He stood among the group of gentlemen, one hand resting on his hip while the other firmly grasped the fishing rod.

"Lord Langdon does not appear overly enthused by this diversion," Eleanor remarked, casting a glance in the direction of her dear friend.

Mina smiled in agreement. "I daresay he finds more solace in his work, sketching those houses and such."

"Indeed," Eleanor confirmed, "he mentioned to me that the renovations progress steadily, with a third of the house nearly completed, including the roof. It brings him great satisfaction, especially as the winter season approaches, necessitating a pause. He's not overly pleased about being away from his charcoals and papers for long."

Mina pondered this revelation, a hint of bitterness tainting her thoughts. So, he shares such details with you, while I seem to be valued solely for the moments he grasps my bosom. Nevertheless, she knew she must respond, lest Eleanor become suspicious of her demeanour as well.

"Lord Langdon seemed rather eager to indulge in romantic literature yesterday," remarked Mina.

"Indeed, my dear Mina. After your departure, we found ourselves tasked with reading 'Romeo and Juliet' together. Based on the applause we received from the assembled company, I daresay we performed admirably in bringing those star-crossed lovers to life," replied Eleanor.

Mina's thoughts raced as she sensed a flutter in her stomach, a sensation akin to a sharp nudge. So, that's why everyone assumes you two are well-suited, she mused, hence his earlier defence of me seems to count for nought.

"Would you describe Lord Langdon as a romantic?" Eleanor inquired suddenly.

"Certainly not," Mina responded briskly. "But then again, what do I truly know of him? I cannot claim to be intimately acquainted with his character."

Her response caused Eleanor's eyebrows to arch, but the dear friend found herself unable to continue the conversation as Mina was addressed by another guest within their vicinity.

"Miss Haswell, would you care to try your hand at fishing?" Earl Westhaven inquired with a smirk that could charm any young lady in that moment.

"Nay, thank you, Lord Stirling," Mina replied, "I fear I would only manage to hook a gentleman's eye in such an endeavour."

"Well, should not catching a gentleman's eye be of the utmost importance on your agenda during this stay?" Victor remarked mischievously, drawing chuckles from the gentlemen nearby.

Mina and Eleanor refrained from laughter, both detecting the underlying mockery in his words. As Mina cast a sidelong glance at Roy, she noticed his lack of amusement; instead, his expression soured further, his brow furrowing in a frown.

"Women should have their noses buried in their books if they're not fishing at present," Mr. Wainwright commented. "Though all that romantic fiction only fills their heads with fanciful notions."

"Men should acquaint themselves with at least one romantic novel," Mina countered, her indignation mounting steadily. "Perhaps then they would understand better what brings happiness to their women."

Her words elicited chuckles from the gentlemen, though Wainwright's cheeks flushed crimson. The ladies offered gentle applause at Mina's remark, save for Kate Lansing, who still nursed a grudge over Roy's previous retorts.

"Schooled like a lad, Wainwright," Victor interjected with a grin directed at his friend. Then, addressing Mina, he continued, "But truth be told, dear Miss Haswell, romance appears to me as little more than fool's gold. I prefer that my future bride and I remain tethered to the realities of our everyday lives."

His words ignited a lively discourse about preferred pastimes and banter among the young peers, causing Mina's heart to quicken as she found herself speaking up and being warmly received by the crowd perhaps for the first time in years.

"That was splendid, Mina," Eleanor commended her spiritedness. "You ought to share your sharp wit more openly in public settings. Your keen observations should not be confined solely to the walls of your home."

Mina nodded in acknowledgement and stole another glance at Royston, only to find him engrossed in the pursuit of fishing, his focus unwavering.

The day passed swiftly, and before she knew it, Mina found herself gliding into the grand ballroom, standing beside Lady Langdon.

"I must admit, dear Mina," Polly began, "we have not had as many conversations here as we do at home. I've been curious, my dear - how do you find your stay in this place?"

"Most enchanting, dear Polly," Mina replied swiftly, though there was a hint of reservation in her demeanour that did not escape the elder dame's notice.

Polly arched her brows, but before she could voice her curiosity, Lord Eldridge swept her away to the dance floor.

"My mother seems quite taken with that gentleman," remarked a voice from beside Mina.

Without turning to look, she replied, "I suspect he's the reason she's been less vigilant of our affairs lately. Has she subjected you to one of her interrogations recently? Your mother can be rather probing at times, but it appears she's currently preoccupied— or should I say, the Duke has adeptly positioned himself to be the centre of her attention."

Royston chuckled as he joined Miss Haswell's side. "I'm pleased to see her enjoying herself so thoroughly! I haven't witnessed her in such high spirits in ages, and it certainly makes her seem more youthful to me."

He regarded her with a quizzical glance, and she returned it with an impish smirk. "I must commend your defence against Wainwright's words, dear Mina," he remarked. "Soon, you won't require my aid to speak on your behalf. A mere glance from your eyes will send Miss Lansing fleeing, crying out in terror."

Mina chuckled softly. "I fear I'm not quite at that point yet, so you'd best keep your tongue in close proximity."

If only you knew, what could I do with my tongue to you, you would never utter such a daring remark, Roy's mind raced with thoughts better left unspoken, but he managed a delicate cough before extending his hand to Mina. Her own words caused her to inwardly scold herself, her gaze narrowing momentarily. "Shall we?" he asked.

"Certainly," Mina replied, and together they swept onto the dance floor, gracefully moving to the rhythm of the music.

To her surprise, she found herself rather enjoying the dance with Roy, who, for once, set aside his usual haughty airs for a more genuine demeanour. Indeed, their turn around the floor seemed all too brief to her! Afterwards, he escorted her to join their mutual acquaintances, including Eleanor and Victor.

"Sinclair, would you care to join us for a pipe of tobacco?" inquired Victor, to which Roy assented with a nod.

"I abstain from smoking, but I would welcome a breath of fresh air."

Royston did not forget his intention to speak with Victor regarding Mina, to nudge him in her direction—after all, the wager remained in play. Once the gentlemen departed the ballroom, Eleanor drew closer to Mina and inquired, "Whom are you gazing at so intently?"

"Pardon?" Mina replied, startled from her brief reverie.

A reverie of dancing the night away with Roy, though she would never confess such thoughts aloud at that moment.

"There must be a gentleman who has caught your eye amidst that gathering, Mina," Eleanor remarked, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I confess, I have taken a liking to Lord Langdon. He appears to possess true gentlemanly qualities."

Mina regarded her friend momentarily with a quizzical gaze before replying, "I'm pleased for you, Eleanor." Her voice faltered slightly, necessitating a brief cough to regain her composure.

"Now that my interest is known, why not share yours? Perhaps I could offer a subtle word or two on your behalf," Eleanor suggested earnestly, oblivious to Mina's subtle change in demeanour.

"Well, if you must pry," Mina began in a teasing tone, once again composed. "I find myself intrigued by Lord Westhaven. Although, if memory serves, I believe I may have already shared this titbit with you."

Eleanor nodded and replied, "Indeed, and you swiftly accused me of harbouring sentiments for him, when in truth, I merely enjoy a pleasant acquaintance with the gentleman."

"Oh, and why is that?" Mina inquired playfully, "Did this pleasant acquaintance deter him from seeking your favour, my dear Eleanor?"

Her friend shook her head. "For one to pursue another, mutual interest must exist, mustn't it? He never expressed such intentions, nor did I, despite our longstanding acquaintance since childhood. Besides, Westhaven's striking appearance draws excessive attention from the fairer sex, which diminishes his allure in my eyes."

Mina nodded, finding Eleanor's reasoning sound. It also provided insight into her friend's curiosity about Royston. Meanwhile, gentlemen outside the residence indulged in the ritual of filling and lighting their pipes with the finest tobacco

"I observed you sharing a dance with Miss Haswell, Sinclair," Victor remarked, drawing from his pipe with a contemplative air. "She possesses a spirited demeanour, does she not? One should tread cautiously in her presence."

"Her countenance bears a resemblance to a mouse," Wainwright commented casually, overhearing the mention of her name.

Victor let out a hearty chuckle at his friend's observation, though Roy couldn't help but feel a twinge of disapproval.

"Mind your tongue, Wainwright," Roy interjected, his tone firm yet measured. "While Miss Haswell may have bruised your ego, I would caution against impertinent remarks. For if she has the power to wound your pride, consider that I might have the means to leave a more lasting impression upon your countenance. Which, incidentally, bears a resemblance to that of a beaver when illuminated by just the right angle of light."

Royston's threat stirred an amused murmur among the group, while Wainwright remained fixed in a scowl at his adversary. Victor intervened, raising his hand to calm the rising tension.

"Pray, Sinclair," Victor began, addressing Royston with a measured tone, "I understand your desire to defend your distant kin, but a woman – any woman – is not deserving of a physical confrontation."

Royston bristled at the admonition. "And who are you, Westhaven, to dictate what I deem worthy of my attention or fists?" he retorted sharply. He then turned his gaze to the assembled group, his expression stern. "Miss Haswell has endured considerable hardships in her short life, having recently suffered the loss of her father, as well as her betrothed and mother in the past. None of you possess her virtues or grace, not to mention it is shameful to mock her character in such a manner, nor any woman's character there is."

He could hear the Earl chuckle once more.

"One might think you're quite taken with the young lady," remarked Victor.

Roy regarded him with a sharp glance, silently musing, Must you choose such an insufferable prick, Mina? With a derisive scoff, he withdrew into the estate. Striding into the ballroom with purpose, he scanned the room for Mina, only to find her engaged in a dance with one of the elder gentlemen.

"Is everything well, Lord Langdon?" came a voice beside him.

Turning, Royston found himself facing Eleanor's gentle visage. He shook his head and managed a smile, replying, "All is as it should be, Miss Whitcombe. Would you do me the honour of this dance?"

The current dance concluded, prompting him to escort Eleanor to the dancefloor. He awaited the commencement of the next song, observing Mina as she was led back to her acquaintances. Despite his efforts to focus on Eleanor, Roy couldn't resist stealing discreet glances in Mina's direction whenever she came into view. A hint of disquiet flashed across his features as he noticed Westhaven approaching her, but he quickly composed himself.

"Isn't it a delightful evening, Miss Haswell?" Victor inquired as he approached Mina.

She turned to meet his gaze, a wry smile gracing her features. "Indeed, it is, Lord Stirling. Have you had any luck fishing at the river? I had to retire indoors earlier; truth be told, for I prefer my potential suitor to partake in more exhilarating pursuits."

Westhaven chuckled softly as he perceived her retort to his earlier comment. "If I had anticipated that my words would ruffle your feathers so, Miss Haswell, I would have kept them safely tucked away."

Mina felt a spark of audacity stirring within her, perhaps fuelled by the wine she had imbibed or by her growing weariness of this man whose words dripped with endless mockery. With a self-assured smirk, she replied, "You hold yourself in quite a high regard, Westhaven. Yet, your words serve only to underscore the incompatibility of our acquaintance, nothing more."

The Earl briefly lowered his gaze before fixing it upon Mina. "Miss Haswell, I do apologize if my words have caused offense. My tongue often fails me in the most crucial moments of conversation, and while I intend no harm, I may occasionally speak in jest or folly at another's expense. It would be a regrettable circumstance should we become adversaries, for you are indeed a captivating and capable woman."

Mina narrowed her gaze at Victor, sensing a disquiet within her, though she attributed it to the recent turmoil regarding Roy, who she observed dancing with Eleanor. Swiftly, she dismissed her unsettled feelings, chalking them up to the distraction of the moment.

Indeed, the bet still hung in the balance, and she refused to concede victory to that audacious gentleman.

"It will require more than mere words to earn my forgiveness," Mina replied playfully, her eyes sparkling with mischief. Victor nodded solemnly, understanding her statement.

"Certainly! Might we steal a moment, Miss Haswell? You could regale me with tales from your romantic literature," he proposed, offering her his arm with a conspiratorial wink that elicited a genuine smile from her.

As they strolled arm in arm, engaging in genteel conversation, Royston's nerves grew increasingly frayed. He silently prayed for the dance to conclude swiftly, his apprehension mounting with each passing moment. Upon observing Mina and Victor depart the ballroom together, he felt beads of sweat form upon his brow.

"You appear quite pale, Lord Langdon," Eleanor remarked with concern as the dance drew to a close.

"Apologies, Miss Whitcombe, but I find myself feeling unwell. It may be the result of prolonged exposure to the sun this afternoon," Roy quickly offered his excuse, bowing courteously before swiftly retreating to his chamber.

Of course, upon reaching the spot where he last saw Mina with Victor, they were nowhere to be found. As the ballroom extended into a long corridor, Royston hastened his steps, checking each room with growing apprehension. His concern heightened with every passing moment Mina spent in Westhaven's company.

At a certain juncture, he noticed a wide-open door leading to one of the chambers. Inside stood Mina, her gaze fixed upon an imposing painting adorning the wall.

"Where is Westhaven?" Roy inquired in a hushed tone, his worry palpable.

It startled Mina, causing her to furrow her brow at his inquiry. "He retired to his chambers but a moment ago, seeking repose. Pray, what business do you have with him at such an hour? Are you perhaps enamoured with him?" she inquired, her tone laced with sarcasm.

Roy sighed, his expression filled with earnestness. "Do not place your trust in him, dear Mina. He is not the honourable man he appears to be. Trust in me, for I speak the truth, though I am unable to reveal all the details, regrettably."

Mina's eyes widened in disbelief. "You expect me to distrust him and yet put my trust in you? Pray, what transpired between you and the Earl this evening?" she pressed, her curiosity piqued.

"I am privy to certain matters that you are not," he retorted firmly. "I beseech you to reconsider your regard for that man."

She scoffed incredulously. "Oh, please! Despite partaking in the libations of this ball, I find your request utterly preposterous! With your leave, I shall retire to my chambers as well before someone happens to observe us."

Mina attempted to withdraw but found herself ensnared as he gently linked his arm with hers. With a resigned sigh, she acquiesced, and they departed the chamber, proceeding along the dimly lit corridor towards the majestic staircase.

Unbeknownst to them, two figures peeked around a nearby corner, wearing smug expressions upon their faces.

"I told you there was an understanding between those two," one remarked with a satisfied smile. "The dignified defences, the stolen glances, the exchanged words... They deceive no one, least of all me!"

"It appears you've indeed won our little wager, my dear," the other replied, offering a silent whistle of approval. "Your talent for intrigue shall never cease to amaze me."

She turned her gaze towards him. "Will you honour your word and concede your stake to me?"

"Without a doubt! I am a man of my word, am I not?" he replied with a mischievous grin. "Furthermore, I propose a new wager, elevating the stakes – this time I bet those two shall be wed by April next year."

The lady narrowed her gaze, considering his proposition carefully. "That is indeed a daring move, sir! Testing my wits and luck in our little game, how audacious of you, but very well, I accept!"

He grinned and offered her his arm, and together they made their way back to the bustling grand ballroom, their clandestine understanding intact.

And thus, it appeared that while Roy and Mina engaged in a playful wager, each vying for the hand of their chosen partner, another pair quietly speculated that fate might lead Roy and Mina into each other's arms...