Episode 20

The morning sun filtered through the delicate curtains of Lady Penelope’s sitting room, filling the space with a warm glow. Lilian had just finished breakfast with her godmother, the fine porcelain plates already cleared away by the servants. Despite the peaceful atmosphere, she remained silent.

“My dear,” Lady Penelope began, watching her over the rim of her teacup. “I was thinking we could go out today. A little shopping might distract you. What do you think?”

Lilian gave a small smile, grateful for her godmother’s thoughtfulness. “I think that sounds like a good idea. A walk would be welcome.”

As they stood to leave, a servant appeared at the entrance of the room. “Milady, Lord Whitaker has arrived and requests to speak with Lady Lilian.”

Lilian tensed, and Lady Penelope let out a discreet sigh before rising with her usual grace. “Show Lord Whitaker to the blue sitting room. Then,” turning to Lilian, she offered a reassuring look, “leave him to me, my dear.”

Whitaker waited in the sitting room, his face displaying the polished smile that Lilian had learned to despise. As soon as Lady Penelope entered, he inclined his head slightly, his tone as smooth as ever. “Lady Penelope, what a pleasure to see you. I merely came to check that you arrived home safely from the theatre last night and to inform you of my visit to Lady Lilian this afternoon.”

Lady Penelope maintained a polite smile, but her eyes had a cold gleam. “How very courteous of you, Lord Whitaker. As you can see, we arrived perfectly well. However, I’m afraid Lady Lilian and I already have plans for the morning. Perhaps it would be more appropriate to return in the afternoon, as you suggested.”

Whitaker’s smile faltered slightly, but he recovered quickly. “Naturally, Lady Penelope. I shall return this afternoon, then.” He bowed before taking his leave, visibly irritated.

Lady Penelope returned to the drawing room with a satisfied smile. “Now, my dear, let’s enjoy this morning without interruptions.”

The outing to the shops was a welcome distraction. London was a vibrant city, its bustling streets lined with colourful storefronts displaying fine fabrics, jewellery, and elegant accessories. Lady Penelope took the opportunity to introduce Lilian to a few trusted merchants and ensured that her goddaughter felt comfortable making her own choices. Though Lilian enjoyed her godmother’s company, a lingering shadow of concern remained, Whitaker’s inevitable visit.

Back home, they had a leisurely lunch. Lady Penelope seized the moment to discuss the upcoming ball. “Lilian, my dear, I have an idea. What do you think of doing something different for the ball? Something more… unexpected?”

Lilian raised her eyebrows, intrigued. “Different how?”

A masquerade ball, Lady Penelope announced with a mischievous smile. “And the theme… pirates. It’s bold, of course, but perhaps it’s just the kind of entertainment we need.”

For the first time in days, Lilian smiled genuinely. “I would love that, godmother. It would certainly be unforgettable.”

Lady Penelope clapped her hands, delighted. “Then it’s settled. We shall prepare an event that no one will forget.”

Later, after lunch, Lilian decided to take advantage of the pleasant weather in the garden. With a book in hand, she walked toward a secluded pergola hidden among the greenery, away from the watchful eyes of any servants. The air was fresh, and the sound of birds accompanied the words of the novel she attempted to read, though her mind often wandered.

A charming retreat, said a deep voice, startling her.

Gabriel stood there, half-hidden by the foliage, looking at her in a way that made her heart race.

“Gabriel… what are you doing here?” she asked, flustered.

He approached with silent steps, his gaze locked onto hers. “I was out walking when I stumbled upon this garden, and to my great surprise, I found a nymph surrounded by flowers.”

Lilian felt the heat rising to her cheeks, but she forced herself to keep her tone light. “Always full of charming words. I hope you’re not rehearsing for some play.”

Gabriel chuckled, the sound low and husky. “I don’t need rehearsals to tell you the truth, Lilian. You know very well what you mean to me.”

The tone shifted, and Lilian felt the moment enveloping them. “I don’t know what you want from me, Gabriel. All of this… is complicated.”

Gabriel leaned in slightly, closing the distance between them. “What I want, Lilian, is simple. I want you.”

Her face burned, but before she could respond, Gabriel leaned in and kissed her. It was not a gentle kiss. It was filled with passion and longing, awakening sensations she had tried so hard to suppress. His hands cradled her face firmly, his touch burning, and Lilian knew she should pull away. But when Gabriel’s lips brushed against hers, any resistance became useless. It was like being swept away by an invisible current, and for the first time, she didn’t want to fight the tide.