Episode 15

"Lilian, dear, how wonderful that you are here. We have very special visitors this afternoon."

Lilian, upon seeing Gabriel, stopped for a brief moment, warmth rising to her face almost uncontrollably. The last time they had been this close, he had kissed her. The thought, which she had tried to bury, resurfaced with force. Embarrassment settled in before she could push it away. Quickly regaining her composure, she tried to control her voice.

"Gabriel? I didn’t know you were in London."

Gabriel stood, bowing slightly in greeting.

"Lady Lilian. What a pleasant surprise."

Clara remained silent, moving discreetly to refill the teacups. Damien followed her with his gaze, intrigued. As she leaned forward to adjust the tray, the small medallion hanging from her neck caught the light, glinting softly in the room. Damien furrowed his brow slightly, unable to tear his eyes away from the piece of jewellery she wore. There was something oddly familiar about it. It wasn’t just the engraving or the time-worn gleam — it was a feeling, a vague memory, like a whisper from a distant place in his mind.

"Where have I seen this before?" he murmured to himself, his fingers tapping lightly on the armrest. A sense of unease settled over him, as if the answer was just out of reach, shrouded in mist.

Clara, unaware of Damien’s intense scrutiny, returned her attention to Lilian. But Damien continued to watch her, his jaw tightening. That piece was not trivial. And for some reason, he felt that uncovering its origins might change more than he was willing to admit.

Lady Penelope turned her attention to Lilian.

"So, my dear, you already know the Earl of Sinclair?"

Lilian hesitated, her smile wavering slightly before responding.

"Yes, godmother. Gabriel is our neighbour. We... grew up together."

Lady Penelope narrowed her eyes, sensing more than Lilian was saying.

"You grew up together… It’s interesting how certain bonds endure over time, don’t you think?" She then turned to Gabriel. "You are the son of Carolyne Sinclair?"

"Yes, I am," Gabriel replied calmly.

Lady Penelope placed her teacup down with an elegant gesture, her gaze still on Gabriel, assessing every nuance of his demeanor.

"I remember your mother, Carolyne. She was an extraordinary woman, with a natural elegance and a kind heart. It was a great loss for all of us."

Gabriel looked away, but the slight tightening of his fingers around the teacup betrayed his emotion.

"Thank you, milady. My mother was, indeed, an extraordinary woman."

Lady Penelope tilted her head slightly, as if hesitating before continuing.

"And I also know what happened to you, Gabriel. How you were forced to leave everything behind. Your father was… complicated. I can’t imagine it was easy for you."

Gabriel lifted his gaze, his blue eyes filled with intensity.

"Life is rarely easy, Lady Penelope. But, one way or another, I found my path."

Lady Penelope gave a small, knowing smile.

"And there are things that must be faced, regardless of the cost. I hope you know what you are getting yourself into, young man. This society is not kind to those who attempt to shake its foundations."

Gabriel returned her smile.

"I am fully aware, my lady."

Lady Penelope leaned back in her chair, casting a brief glance at Lilian, who remained silent, and her hands delicately resting in her lap.

"Well, Gabriel, if you are as determined as your mother was, perhaps you stand a chance. But I warn you, the road will not be easy."

Gabriel remained silent for a moment, noting the way Lady Penelope looked at Lilian with an almost maternal protectiveness. That gesture made him realize that, in his mission to protect Lilian, he was not alone. He had found a powerful ally.

Damien, on the other hand, seemed oblivious to the exchange of glances. The medallion Clara wore still occupied his thoughts, but he remained discreet, allowing the conversation to flow.

The atmosphere softened, and the conversation was marked by a balance between lightness and subtle tension. Gabriel, with his usual air of discreet seduction, took every opportunity to provoke Lilian, while Damien interspersed humorous comments that brought small smiles to those present.

"Lady Penelope," Gabriel began, placing his teacup down with an elegant gesture, "I must say it is rare to find such a welcoming environment in London. It is a pleasure to be here."

"I am glad you feel that way," Lady Penelope responded with a slightly mischievous smile. "I hope Lilian's presence makes the visit even more interesting."