Episodio 11

The days leading up to the grand ball were filled with frantic energy at the Count of Devonshire's mansion. Servants rushed through the halls, carrying fabrics, flowers, and silver trays. Every detail was meticulously adjusted to ensure the event would be a success. After all, this was no ordinary ball: that night would mark the official introduction of Tabitha De Lyons as the Count’s heir, one of the most important peers in the kingdom. Tabitha, however, felt overwhelmed by the grandeur of it all. With every step she took through the halls, she was reminded that her life was changing irrevocably.

“Miss Tabitha, does this fabric match the living room decor or the main hall?” The governess asked, holding two rolls of fabric.

“I don’t know, choose what you think is best, “Tabitha replied distractedly, continuing her walk.

She found herself in the garden, seeking a moment of respite from the internal and external chaos that seemed to offer no relief. But even in the garden, the sound of hammers and voices from workers echoed in the distance. Amélie soon appeared, holding a cup of tea for Tabitha. “My dear, you need to rest a bit. It does no good to let yourself be consumed by everything that's happening.”

Tabitha accepted the cup but didn’t respond immediately. After a moment, she sighed. “It’s all happening so fast, Amélie. A month ago, I was just... Tabitha De Lyons. Now, suddenly, I’m the heir to one of the most influential men in England. And with that comes many expectations. I don’t know if I’m ready.”

Amélie sat beside her, placing her hand over hers. “My dear, no one is born ready to carry such a title. But you have something that many others don’t have: strength and compassion. That’s what will make you a true Countess.”

Tabitha looked at her, trying to absorb the words of encouragement. “And what about the dangers, Amélie? Ethan said Fleury might have sent someone after me. That responsibility feels bigger than I am.”

Amélie squeezed her hand. “You’re not alone, Tabitha. You have your grandfather, Ethan, and even me. Together, we will face whatever comes.”

Inside the mansion, Ethan Devereux watched as the servants adjusted a large chandelier in the main hall. Though he appeared calm, his mind was elsewhere. He knew that Tabitha’s announcement as heir would not only be a social milestone. It would also make her an even more visible target. He approached the Count, who was overseeing the preparations with a satisfied expression.

“My Lord, the ball will be a grand event,” Ethan commented, crossing his arms.

The Count turned to him, nodding. “As it should be. I want everyone to know that Tabitha is protected and that the Devonshire name will be honored by her.”

Ethan hesitated for a moment before speaking. “And what about the dangers this might attract?”

The Count furrowed his brow. “That’s exactly why you’re here, Devereux. Your presence isn’t just welcome, it’s necessary. I don’t want anything threatening my granddaughter.”

Ethan nodded, though he knew protecting Tabitha would be a challenging task, especially with so many eyes on her. That night, as the chaos of the preparations finally quieted, Tabitha sat on the windowsill of her room, gazing at the starry sky. Ethan’s words echoed in her mind: “Trust me. I’m here for you, Tabitha.”

She wanted to believe him, but the weight of what lay ahead was overwhelming. The ball would be just the beginning of a completely new life, and she knew difficult decisions awaited her. Tabitha closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. As scared as she was, something inside her told her she was exactly where she was meant to be.

On the eve of the ball, Ethan found Tabitha in the garden of the mansion after dinner, where she was walking to escape the confusion. He wore a simple outfit, but his presence always exuded authority. After all, he wasn’t just a passionate man: he was the Count of Harrington, one of the most respected men in England.

“Tabitha, we need to talk”, he began, his voice heavy with urgency.

She turned, noticing the tension in his face. “What’s wrong, Ethan? Can’t it wait until after the ball?”

He shook his head and stepped closer. “No. This can’t wait.” He hesitated, then spoke firmly: “You need to marry me. Now. Before something happens.”

Tabitha was stunned. “Marry? Ethan, this is madness! Why are you asking me to marry you like this, suddenly?”

He stepped forward and took her hands, his eyes intently focused on hers.

“It’s not sudden. You know how much I care about you, but it’s not just that. There’s something you need to accept, Tabitha: Fleury sent someone after you. I have information that confirms it. You’re not safe, Tabitha. But as my wife, you will be more protected.”

She pulled her hands away from his, creating some distance between them. “So you want to marry me for security? That sounds like blackmail, Ethan.”

He took a step forward, his expression serious. “If it’s blackmail, it’s because I’m desperate to make sure you’re alive when I return. I can’t let anything happen to you while I’m gone. I love you, Tabitha, and I need you to trust me.”

She looked away, her heart torn. “I can’t make this decision now. My grandfather, society... all of this is too much for me.”