Buketts-Boo-k-ee ttt ssss

Telabis-Tell uh bis

Chapter 9:

Korina barely slept that night, crying off and on. Sometimes she'd fall asleep for a few minutes and awake forgetting what had happened but then she'd remember and burst into tears once more. In the morning Betsy came to check on her but Korina found she still wanted to be left alone.

She requested that no one disturb her in her grief. Betsy nodded, respecting her wishes but insisted she eat something. Korina didn't think she'd be able to eat anything, in her anguish. However, when the food was brought in and she was left alone again. She found herself famished from having so little the day before. She quickly finished off the entire tray.

After she ate, she laid in her bed and felt sick with grief and from eating so fast. She thought she might vomit but instead passed out for several blissful hours. When she woke up, it was dark and time for dinner. She ate it slowly in her sitting room and stared at the fire.

Her mind felt dull and foggy, she was reminded of when she would get a really bad cold and couldn't think. Over the next few days, she went through an array of emotions as she ate, slept and grieved. At one point as her mind began to clear, she found herself angry...angry at the Baroness, her grandmother and even her father but mostly she was angry with herself…

She found herself going over everything in her head, asking questions. Some part of her...had to have known, something wasn't right that something was going on. She had known her father was ill and had been for some time...but she'd just accepted it. Out of the blue her grandmother had wanted to see her, after all this time and she suddenly needed to find a husband, again she'd just accepted it. When her father had her pack nearly everything...she'd found it strange but yet again, she went with it.

For months she had been in Crestmoore, writing him letter after letter and had not received a single response...She knew it was concerning but had made excuses, exceptions. Yet at the back of her mind she had to have known there was a chance things had gotten worse, that her father might be too sick to write her or even...dead but she hadn't wanted to consider it. She hadn't wanted to accept that she might never see him again.

Korina spent hours staring out the window thinking, how her father had acted, how she had, her grandmother and even the Baroness. She looked for clues...signs but eventually she realized it didn't matter who knew...and when. The fact still remained...would always remain that her father was gone…

She read his letter, again and again. She was upset she hadn't got to talk to him and be there with him but after a while, she supposed, the letter was something. With her mother, they had known she was dying for a while. They'd had time to talk about it and said many a goodbye but after her mother passed and time had gone on, Korina found she didn't remember everything her mother had said, her memory failed in places.

With her brother, he had died instantly out of nowhere, there had been no time to say goodbye. Thinking on it Korina realize she had said parting words to her father when she'd left. She had told him she loved him and even said goodbye, of course she believed, she'd see him again... Who knew perhaps one day she would still... in the after.

Until then, at least she would have this letter. This precious letter, with most if not all the things her father had wanted to say. She only wished she'd left him a letter of her own. He might not have been able to take it with him but perhaps it would have given him something to hold onto at the end.

After more than a week had passed, Korina woke one morning and felt it was time... She put her father's letter with her mother's dress, under her mattress. She found she didn't want anyone to see it, to read it but her.

She requested a bath and then got dressed. It was a pleasant enough day so she had breakfast outside. When she was finished she played the piano for a while. She played the song her mother had taught her, slowly. It sounded differently, sadder and seemed to match her mood.

At one point her grandmother stepped into the room. Things were a bit awkward and intense. She said a few words of condolences, Korina didn't say anything, she simply nodded every so often. She felt like there was a pit in her chest and if she uttered a single word in response, she might break down and start crying again. Perhaps she might not be able to stop. The feeling was quite overwhelming, so much so that when her grandmother finally left the room, Korina went outside.

She took large breaths of fresh air and wanted to cry. She wanted to scream at the top of her lungs but instead settled for taking a long stroll. She let the sun washed over her and didn't care about having an umbrella. She opened her arms, spreading them wide and twirled in a field of flowers.

For a moment she lost herself, when she came back to her senses, she realized, she'd wandered a bit far from her grandmother's manor. She could just barely see it in the distance. She bit her lip and laughed and then she cried, falling to her knees in the field. She didn't know how much time passed as she sobbed but when she collected herself once again, she noticed a figure in the distance.

She rose up, standing, she wondered if it was one of the servants, but the figure was in the opposite direction of the manor. She squinted her eyes and couldn't see all of the details but recognized the man's cloak. She gasped as she realized it was the Duke.

Her face quickly turned red and she wondered if he saw her, had seen her just now moving about in her grief. She quickly turned and dashed back to the manor. She felt embarrassed, wondering if she should have waved or curtsied.

She wondered for a moment, what he was even doing wandering about but remembered that was indeed, how they'd first met. He'd been wandering by on that rainy day and had stopped to help. She wondered for a moment, if he'd been looking to do the same again...Surely not, surely he hadn't even seen her or even knew what had taken place.

When she got inside the manor, the staff seemed alarmed. She was instructed to see her grandmother at once. Apparently Korina had been away much longer then she'd intended and without word. Her grandmother looked worried, when she entered her sitting room. Korina saw a flash of anguish but her grandmother quickly covered it up.

She looked away from Korina and scolded her for leaving the manor without word and most of all an escort. She had no idea what could become of young women. Korina apologized, her grandmother glanced at her and simply informed Korina, her dress was dirty and she needed to take better care of her appearance. It would reflect poorly on both of them if anyone of importance were to see her. Again, Korina apologized, her grandmother dismissed her and she went upstairs to change.

She stayed in her room until evening and considered staying inside for the rest of the night but found, she was rather tired of staying in and would like some company. When it was time for dinner, she went downstairs and saw a large arrangement of flowers, the biggest she'd ever seen. She asked Betsy about it, when she sat down at the table. She informed Korina they were from Duke Kerr, for her.

Korinas' heart twinged and she nearly cried again. She found it silly to want to cry over such a thing but found her emotions were still a bit all over...They probably would be for some time. She sighed and sat quietly waiting for dinner to be served.

Her grandmother came in a few minutes later and Korina spoke with her, "The flowers," she said as her grandmother sat.

"Yes, aren't they stunning. They're for you...from Duke Kerr,"

Korina blushed, "Yes, Betsy informed me,"

"Oh," said her grandmother as the first course was brought out, a simple vegetable broth

Korina stirred it about and asked, "When did they arrive?"

"Not long ago, perhaps an hour or so," said her grandmother, taking a spoonful of soup.

"Hmm," said Korina as she sipped a spoonful, thinking about it and then asked, "Was it just the flowers?"

"No," her grandmother said and then she paused. She set her spoon down and wiped her mouth before she said, "A letter arrived with it as well. He, has been asking after you,"

"He has?" said Korina. She let her spoon sit in her soup.

"Yes," said her grandmother. She looked excited as she continued, "He sent a letter of interest, the morning after the ball. He wishes to meet with us and have dinner,"

"Oh," said Korina, "Why did no one tell me?"

"Well...with...the news and everything...the Baroness thought it best to give you space and time. I informed him of the situation and declined on your behalf."

"Oh," said Korina her chest ached. She wasn't sure what happened when you declined. If...it meant things were over...

Her grandmother studied Korina for a moment and then asked, "Would you like to read the letter, that came with the flowers?"

"Yes," said Korina.

Her grandmother motioned to Hazley. He approached and she requested the letter be brought. He nodded and left to get it, "Normally I'd have you wait until after dinner but I think we can make an exception,"

Korina smiled and nodded. Hazley returned a moment later with the letter. He handed it to her grandmother and she in turn, handed it to Korina. The letter wasn't very big but it had her name beautifully written on it. There was also a wax seal. Korina almost didn't want to break it but she did. She saw his handwriting was small and tight. She read the letter slowly.

"Lady Korina Andon,

I am sorry for your loss and apologize if I upset you on my walk today. I meant no ill intent upon passing. I hope you are well, if there is anything you need or that I can do for you, please do not hesitate to call upon me,"

Duke West Kerr.

Korina read it twice smiling to herself. It was the first time she'd really smiled...since- She felt guilty for a second then flushed as she realized the Duke had indeed seen her. Her grandmother waited for her to respond but Korina just held the letter thinking.

The next course arrived and Korina quickly moved so they could put it down. Her grandmother cut up a few pieces of her asparagus and asked, "Was it a good letter?"

Korina nodded, folding the letter back up, she returned it to it envelope and then drank some wine. When she set her glass down, she turned to her grandmother and said, "Grandmother,"

"Yes,"

"Might...I...I'm not sure how it works but might we be able to undecline,"

Her grandmother smiled and almost seemed to glow with joy, "You wish to see him?"

"Yes," said Korina.

"If you are certain you are up for it. I could take care of the arrangements,"

Korina was still quite upset...She knew she would be for some time but she longed to see the Duke again. She recalled the ball and how they had danced. With everything that had gone on she'd nearly forgotten about it, forgotten how it felt to be in his arms. She smiled to herself wanting to feel like that again though she wasn't sure if she ever could...but she'd-

"Yes," said Korina, "I'd like to try,"

***

It was a good thing that Velona had stayed the night after the ball, because first thing in the morning, a letter of interest arrived from the Duke. He and Beckett were abruptly woken by servants and he was requested downstairs at his earliest convenience. As he'd dressed he thought it was Korina, finally reaching out to him but quickly learned it was Vira, that needed his valued company and advice.

She was excited and told him of the letter. He almost didn't believe her until he saw it himself. He quickly read the letter and then pretended to keep reading so that he could think. He thought the Duke, was getting vengeance, dancing with Korina all night, writing a letter of interest, now that was taking things a bit too far...

He stumbled over the words a few more times and considered there was a slim chance, the Duke was actually interested but...he, he was a Duke and Korina, she was just barley a lady. Such a relationship would never be accepted, not in Crestmoore. Even if the Duke didn't play by the rules, the people of Crestmoore would hold him to them, descendant of a founder or not.

Velona should know, his own mother had been a lady, and his father a Duke. Despite their love, they were never to marry, the best she got, was to be his mistress. Why should Korina and the Duke be any different. No… whether the Duke was serious or not, this…this… arrangement would never do, the Countess was looking to have Korina married not kept.

He quickly collected himself and calmed the Countesses' excitement. He told her she could not possibly accept such a letter, Korina was in grieving and was in no position, to keep company at this time. The Countess seemed to have forgotten and finally asked how last night went. He exaggerated, saying Korina was absolutely devastated.

The Countess quickly settled down then and asked what she should do. He instructed her to decline the letter, at this time and tell the Duke of the passing of Korinas' father. The Countess reluctantly wrote the letter and had it sent off. He assured her the Duke would understand and write again, if his interest were true, though again Velona doubted it was. However if there was even the slightest chance, at least this would give him a few weeks, perhaps a month to think of what to do.

The Countess had gotten a bit too excited and needed to rest for a while. Velona said his partings to her and instructed her to give Korina as much space as she needed in this delicate time. He also asked that she keep him informed of any changes. She agreed and then went to lay down.

He informed Beckett they would be leaving and then checked in on Korina. He learned she had requested no one disturb her, but considered himself an exception. He slipped into her rooms and found her passed out in bed, her fathers letter next to her. He leaned over the bed and read it.

The letter was a standard farewell, as much as he expected. Though her reaction still had him concerned. He stared at her for a moment watching her sleep. She wasn't wearing her corset and her breasts, were practically falling out of her night gown. Her eyes were blotchy and her hair was an utter mess. He reached out to adjust it but thought better of it, pulling back.

It unnerved him how impulsive he could be around her. Perhaps time apart would do some good. He and Beckett left a few minutes later, when they got home Velona freed up his schedule making other arrangements. He attended outings, parties and caught up on a lot of things around the estate.

He pushed Korina to the back of his mind, where she belonged, though every so often she'd slip in, during idle moments of the day or at night when he lay awake thinking. He wrote Vira a few times, inquiring about Korina and the Dukes' response. The Duke gave his condolences and understanding as Velona knew he would and Korina had yet to leave her room, more or less it was what he expected.

Almost two weeks passed and he started to look into arrangements for his annual ball. It was still some time away but he never liked to leave things to the last minute. He picked out stationary for invitations and threw some ideas around for the menu.

The maid brought in the mail, with his afternoon tea and biscuits, he barley looked up at her scratching down potential desserts with his quill. He considered ones Korina hadn't tried before. He knew how she liked sweets, how they would make her eyes go wide and she'd get that little smile. She had no restraint and would gobble them up like a pig. She needed to learn self control, to savor every bite-

Velona paused, realizing he was thinking of Korina, why...what did she matter when it came to picking his desserts. He… he might not even invite her and yet when he looked, he found her name was the first on his guest list. He wrinkled his brow…staring at it, it unsettled him. He put his quill down and sat back.

He lifted his cup of tea and drank it slowly, letting the flavor and aroma calm him. He closed his eyes and breathed deeply, centering himself. When he opened his eyes again, he decided to look over the mail. He set his tea cup down and opened the first letter. It was an invitation to the Buketts' next month. He made a mental note to check his social calendar and then set the letter aside.

The next letter was from his dress maker, thanking him once again, for his large order and asking when he wanted to get started, on his annual ball gown. He supposed it was time. He'd already decided on what he wanted and the colors but perhaps he should have something made for Korina as well-Her...again. He pushed Korina from his mind sighing.

He grabbed a biscuit and bit into it rather aggressively before opening the third letter. It was from one of his informants. There was talk...of an affair between the Waters daughter, Wendy and one of his own stable boys Tollen. He already knew of this but apparently it was getting serious... for them to have been spotted.

He supposed if he was going to use this information it should be soon. Though there was little he wanted or needed from the Waters…Still he'd have to consider if there was anything that could be gained. He made another mental note and then moved on to the next part, biting into his biscuit again. Apparently Duke Kerr had rushed a food order and hired on several new staff, for a dinner party he was having, with the Countess and her granddaughter. Surely this was old news, from a few weeks ago, yet his informant said it was yesterday, the dinner was set for...tonight but that didn't make any sense. The letter went on discussing the latest in the Mortimors' feud but Velona stopped reading.

He finished his biscuit and drank more of his tea, thinking. Clearly his informant had made a mistake. The Duke couldn't be having dinner with Countess Bray and Korina, not tonight. If...if the dinner were even back on, he would have been the first to know, Korina wasn't ready for such an event. She would need preparation...it was easy to fool a crowd of people kept at a distance but an intimate dinner...would surely expose just how inadequate she was and then….word would get around and all hi hard work….would have been for nothing...No...the Countess would have written him if...the dinner were back on, Korina was still grieving and his informant was wrong...for once...

He sat for a moment tapping his finger tips on his desk. He supposed it wouldn't hurt to pen the Countess a quick letter and check up on things... He pulled out some stationary and reached for his quill. He went to dip it in the ink but ended up knocking the bottle over, black ink spilled out over everything.

Velona couldn't believe it. He quickly attempted to clean it up. He, was not a clumsy man, things like this didn't happen, not to him. After a few minutes he stopped cleaning…he knew it was too late, too late to write a letter, it would never reach them in time and come back, not if his informant had been correct. No, he...he would just have to go himself. He stood and rushed out of the room, knowing he would have to make it quick.

He ordered his servants to prepare a carriage and then went to his dressing room and changed. He did is hair in record time and sat down at his vanity table, to apply his makeup. He hoped it was a mistake, that he would find the Countess had no idea what was going on and that Korina was still locked away in her room.

Beckett stepped into the doorway a moment later. He'd heard Velona had ordered a carriage, to be prepared but dinner wasn't for a while. "Is everything alright?"

"No," said Velona, powdering his face, "Everything is not alright! I just received word that the interest dinner with the Duke might be back on and if so that it is happening tonight."

"I thought Korina was mourning the loss of her father,"

"Apparently not,"

"You're not going are you? We have plans," said Beckett, "The Cartwells' tonight,"

"I know that, you don't think I know that! I'm just going to check on things. I should be back in plenty of time...If not you can go on ahead of me and I'll meet you there, just tell them I'm running a little late..."

Beckett grimaced, "I don't see why you have to go. Can't they do without you for one night?

Velona glared at Beckett through the mirror, "One night is all it would take to undo all my hard work-"

"This isn't work, it's a favor, something to kill time, nothing more. You've become too invested, I think...I think you need to step back,"

"What I need," said Velona applying his eyes, "Is to focus, I don't have time to argue with you. Do as I ask,"

Beckett clenched his fists and pursed his lips, Velona glanced at him through the mirror but continued working on his eyes. A moment later Beckett stepped out of view and left the room. Alone, Velona let out a heavy sigh. Beckett was getting all worked up over nothing.

Velona looked into the mirror and paused, thinking, did he really need to check..did any of this really matter. Wasn't he done... He thought of Korina dancing... how happy she'd looked…He furrowed his brow, his chest ached and grew tight, once more.

He glared at himself in the mirror and thought….yes. He didn't work this hard for...for nothing. The Duke wasn't a viable option...he needed to make that clear... He needed to...needed to see things through. He nodded to himself and moved on to painting his lips.

***

Over the next few days, Korina continued to mourn the loss of her father. She read his letter several times a day and thought over his words as she went on long walks. One afternoon when she returned from one of her walks, her grandmother informed her the Duke had responded.

Her grandmother had written him after they'd had dinner. She informed him, Korina was interested to meet with him. He was more then happy and requested once again, that they have dinner with him at their earliest convenience.

Her grandmother quickly wrote him back and arranged for them to have dinner the next night.

It was sudden but her grandmother didn't want him to have to wait, any longer then he already had. Korina hardly slept that night tossing and turning. She was eager to see him and speak with him again but worried about the other day. She still felt embarrassed about her outburst but thought if anyone could understand, it would be him.

Throughout breakfast the next morning she could barley sit still. Every time Korina thought of the Duke, she smiled. She was so excited, for a moment she even stopped thinking of her father. She felt guilty when she realized. It was strange...that she could be excited about anything….that she could be making plans, that life could still go on…

Of course it had gone on after her mother had died and when her brother had as well. So why...should things be any different now? She supposed life would go on...even after she died. It was a dark sobering thought, she tried not to dwell upon.

Instead she did her best to busy herself while she waited for the Baroness to arrive. Korina assumed she would be over, to dress her and tell her how she was suppose to act as always. She might even accompany them to dinner.

Korina wasn't exactly looking forward to seeing her again, after the last time. She knew the Baroness hadn't done anything wrong but her emotions were mixed. Her heart twinged, reliving the moment the Baroness had told her of her fathers passing over and over again.

She knew someone had to tell her but Korina would have preferred someone else...The Baroness and her relationship was already strained. More and more, Korina was looking forward to the day, when she would be done with her training. Until then she would just have to grin and bare it...as the Baroness put it.

The morning passed quickly and before Korina knew it, lunch had arrived. She ate outside and then read a book. After a few hours, her grandmother found her and suggested she start getting ready for dinner. Korina told her, she was waiting for the Baroness to arrive.

Her grandmother informed her she wasn't coming. Apparently the Baroness didn't even know about the dinner. Korina had just assumed she'd be over, she began to panic and rushed up to her room. She'd gotten ready without the Baroness before but never without her guidance and preparation.

She paced around her rooms for several minutes and then went to her dressing room. She looked through all her clothes, wondering what she should wear…how her hair and makeup should be. She'd been to a private dinner before but she'd never been to one that would decide if she was a match, for someone… She bit her lip and then quickly stopped herself.

She paused for a long moment realizing she was freaking out….over what, getting dressed and going to dinner. Had she not woken up each and every day of her life and decided what to wear...True it mattered here, it said something about you… Korina clung to one of her dresses, if it should matter... if this dinner was to decide if she and the Duke were a match, then shouldn't she be herself.

After all, if the Duke liked her and wanted her...then shouldn't she dress as she wanted...act as she wanted and not as she ought to be. She laughed thinking it was easy to think, easy to say be yourself but what if he didn't like her. What if he only like who he thought she was...based on how she had presented herself thus far.

No, she thought smiling to herself, he had seen her when she'd first arrived, sloshing about in the mud. He had met her as she was and he had still wanted to meet with her again...had wanted her to be herself around him. Korina pulled out a dress and then another and another, she might not do things as the Baroness would but she'd do them...do them as herself…

She picked out all the dresses she liked and then stood in front of the mirror with each of them. There was still time before dinner, enough time that she could think clearly and plan out what she wanted to do. She picked out a yellow dress, with yellow ribbons and intricate embroidery. She put the other dresses away and had just finished when Betsy entered the room.

She asked if Korina needed any help. Korina had a general idea of what she wanted to do now and asked if Betsy would assist. Korina put on her stalkings and then Betsy helped her tighten up her corset. They slid on her dress and laced it up in the back. She picked out some comfortable boots, with a low heel and Betsy helped her lace them up as well.

When it came time to do her hair, Korina decided she wanted to wear it down. She knew it was customary to wear it up. She could hear the Baronesses voice in the back of her mind scolding her but Korina pushed it away. She brushed out her hair and looked at it, in the mirror for a few minutes. She liked it but it felt like something was missing. Betsy suggested they pull some of her hair back and decorate it.

They pulled the strands around her face back and secured them behind her head. Then they added some ribbons and pearls to make it look pretty. Korina put on a nice pearl necklace and bracelet to go along with it.

When it came time to do her make up, she wasn't quite sure what she wanted to do. She knew she didn't want to put on a lot. She expressed to Betsy she wanted to do something simple, something that reflected herself tonight. Betsy thought for a moment and then suggested, she only paint her lips and use some light pink powder, to lighten her cheeks.

Korina agreed and Betsy carefully put it on. When they were done Korina stood in front of her full length mirrors and thought she looked nice. She looked more like herself, then she had in months. Overall she was happy and a bit surprised it had turned out.

She thanked Betsy for all her help and when Korina was called down stairs to go, she made it a point to let her grandmother know, just how valuable Betsy had been. Her grandmother looked Korina over and had her spin around a few times. She smiled pleasantly and seemed to like the outcome as well.

Korina thought she would praise Betsy but simply nodded to Hazley. He in turn nodded back and then looked to Betsy. He moved leaving the room and Betsy followed after him. Korina worried she might have gotten Betsy in trouble but while they were putting on their cloaks, her grandmother explained there was an order to these things.

Hazley was in charge of the house on her grandmothers' behalf. When it came to the servants, if they did a good job or not, it was his duty to reward or punish them. In this case Betsy would be rewarded. Korina was happy but realized just how little she knew about the day to day details. She knew how she was suppose to act and some of the ranking but there was still so much, of this world she didn't know and understand.

She thought about it as they went outside and got into the carriage. They set out for the Dukes estate and she continued to think about it a while longer. After a while she pushed it to the back of her mind thinking she didn't have to know everything, once she was married she'd be going...home.

Korina sat...truly realizing for the firs time...she wasn't going home. She knew her father had passed and he'd asked that she not return to Avilini but she hadn't really thought about what that would mean. She...she wouldn't be leaving Crestmoore. She would be staying...this...this was her world now…her home.

She clung to herself...she knew she should be happy...happy she had a place but it brought her little comfort...Crestmoore was unlike the world she had always known. There was so much of it she had yet to discover but there was so much of it, she didn't like, even despised...What was she going to do? What was to become of her...if she stayed here?

Her grandmother kept watching her and smiling. She took Korinas' silence and nervous expression as worry over the dinner. She reminded Korina to breathe and smile. When they pulled up at the Dukes, the dinner was the last thing on her mind. She realized she'd nearly forgotten about it. It didn't bode well that her thoughts and feelings were all over the place.

She bit her lip and then recalled her fathers' letter...hadn't he told her not to worry so much. She could almost here him now, telling her life was too short that there was so much to enjoy. She held her hand to her chest...even though her father was gone...his words...his advice still remained…

She let out a heavy sigh and decided to listen to it. It did her no good to worry about the future, about what would become of her, there was little she could do about it now. She put on a pleasant smile and was determined to focus, on what was going on right now, dinner with the Duke.

The carriage door opened and Korina stepped out. She wasn't sure what to expect of the Dukes estate but quickly found it was massive. It was probably three, maybe four times the size of her grandmothers. The manor itself was several floors high and all lit up. The pathway leading up to it, was lit up as well, with lanterns everywhere.

Korina was briefly reminded of the ball. The memory brought her warmth and comfort. She and her grandmother made their way inside and the entrance hall was magnificent as well. Korina had seen a few now and this one topped them all. There were murals and statues everywhere.

There was at lease half a dozen staff, waiting to take their cloaks. Once they had, they seemingly disappeared from sight, save for the butler, Gwill. He bowed to them, and introduced himself before instructing them, to follow him. Her grandmother took up her arm and they walked together.

Everywhere they went, there were such sights, Korina was more wide eyed then ever and her grandmother seemed to be just as entranced, as she was. Korina quickly whispered to her, "Have you not been here before?"

"Only once," her grandmother said, "When I was a small child. Everything is just as splendid as I recall,"

Her grandmother seemed delighted. It was strange to see her smile so, to see her eyes go wide. She felt they had something in common if only for a second. They were led down several hallways and into a small sitting room. Considering how big everything was, it was surprising to step into a smaller room.

Korina took it in though and quickly fell in love with it. She realized while almost all the rooms looked amazing, none of them really had the appearance of life. Everything was...placed….as...as…

Korina searched for the right word…. aesthetically. That was it, all of it was placed to be looked at...for it's beauty.

Yes, however this small room was filled with all sorts of clutter. There were books lining the walls and tables with games on them and their was a roaring fireplace, Korina saw Libby sitting in a chair in front of it, she seemed to be mending, only curiously it was making a picture. Korina stared at it for a moment and then looked to the Duke. He was standing in front of the fireplace, with his back to them. The Butler introduced her grandmother and then her.

Korina watched as Libby looked up from her mending and smiled. The Duke set down a glass of something, on the fireplace mantle and slowly turned to greet them. Her grandmother curtsied to both the Duke and his daughter, while Korina stood for a moment, locking eyes with the Duke. He smiled at Korina and there was a lightness in her chest, an expanse that filled her with something familiar. When her grandmother rose, Korina quickly curtsied to the Duke and then Libby.

The Duke acknowledged them both. He looked like he wanted to speak to her but instead spoke to her grandmother, "How are you this fine evening, Countess Bray?"

"Well enough," said the Countess, "And you?"

"Quite fine," said the Duke. He then turned to Korina, "And you Lady Andon, how are you doing?"

"Wonderful," said Korina. The two stared at each other and her grandmother cleared her throat.

Korina realized she was staring, she pursed her lips and looked away from him, to Libby. She was looking to them shyly. Korina nodded to her and asked, "And how are you Lady Kerr?"

"I am good," said Libby, standing up excitedly.

"What are you making?" her grandmother asked.

"A landscape," said Libby and she showed them her mending.

Korina stepped up to Libby wanting a closer look at it. "This is...this is breathtaking,"

Libby lit up, "You like it,"

"Like it, I love it, I have never seen mending like this. I never knew you could do this. All the lines and colors"

"Mending?" said Libby a bit confused, "Do you mean needlepoint?"

"Needle point...is that what this is?" said Korina, excitedly.

"Yes," said Libby. "What's mending? Is there another type? I thought mending was fixing clothes. I've seen the servants do it a few times."

"It is, I-"

Her grandmother looked uneasy and quickly interrupted Korina. "Yes, Libby's needlepoint is quite splendid. So is this house. I came here once, when I was a child. I believe your father invited us."

"I suppose that was a bit before my time," said the Duke.

"It was… Such a pity he died when you were so young. You never really got to know him. He was such a kind and generous man,"

"Yes," said the Duke. Korina could tell the Duke was uncomfortable about the subject. Libby could also see her father was not a fan of the conversation and quickly changed it, "I can show you," said Libby stepping up to Korina, "How to needlepoint,"

"You can teach me this?"

"Oh yes," said Libby lighting up.

"I'd love to learn." said Korina. "I'm always interested in trying new things."

"I could show you now," said Libby. "Dinner isn't for a few minutes,"

"I'm sure that would be nice, Libby" said the Duke, "But perhaps another time. We should show them around,"

"Oh," yes," said Libby, "I nearly forgot. Would you like a tour of the manor?"

"We would love one," said the Countess.

"If you'll follow me," said Libby. She quickly set down her needle point and left the room. Korina's grandmother took her arm, once again and they followed after Libby, with the Duke not far behind.

It was clear they didn't get a lot of visitors, Libby was more then happy to show them nearly every room. She loved to point out what her favorite things were and her father sometimes had to keep her on task. After a while, it was clear her grandmother wasn't fond of the tour. However, Korina enjoyed getting to know Libby and learning all about the Kerrs' home. Every so often, she would exchange glances with the Duke and smile.

When it was time for dinner Korina thought Libby would be joining them but she excused herself for the night. Her grandmother seemed to think this was appropriate, apparently children did not often associate with adults, outside their household. Korina realized she hadn't seen any children at the Waters or the Ball. Libby was actually the first child, she'd seen in Crestmoore, though Libby wasn't so much a child, she was nearly grown.

The Duke took a moment to say goodnight to his daughter before he joined them again. They went down several halls and through two massive doors that must have gone two stories high. They led into an enormous dinning room. The ceilings were high up, painted with various murals. There was candle chandeliers everywhere bathing the room in light.

The table must have been able to seat dozens of people. Korina wondered how this was going to work. From her training she knew the head of every house hold sat at the end of the table. Then the guests with the most status were seated with him. She knew it was only the three of them but would she still have to sit at the other end of the table. How would they talk to one another?

Korina's grandmother let go of her arm and she saw a section of the table had been set up. It wasn't at either end but the middle. The servants rushed to pull out the chairs as her grandmother sat and then Korina. The Duke walked around the table and then sat across from Korina. The table was still pretty wide but she could still see and hear him. It was much better then she thought….though she would still like to be closer. She wondered how close and an image of her sitting in his lap popped into her mouth. She struggled not to blush as she pushed the thought away and placed her napkin.

After a minute or tow a dozen servants came through doors with carts and trays. They began to place things….quite a lot of things throughout the table. The Duke licked his lips and cleared his throat before he said, "I hope you don't mind, I wasn't sure what you'd enjoy, so I had them prepare a little bit of everything..."

"Oh," said Korina, quite impressed.

"Surely not everything?" mused her grandmother.

"I spared no expense," said the Duke smiling at Korina.

The dishes kept coming and her grandmother realized this was so. She blushed, clearly she was impressed with the Duke effort to win them over but she said, "You didn't have to go to so much trouble not for us,"

"It was no trouble at all," said the Duke, "It is rare that I have the pleasure of entertain such fine women as yourselves,"

Her grandmother blushed even more and Korina did as well. When the food was all out and where they could see it, rather then have one course at a time a servant came to each of them and asked what they would like to have. It was different and exciting.

Her grandmother requested some soup cooked vegetables with a light gray sauce. Korina looked over everything multiple times. There were dishes she recognized but so many that she didn't. She bit her lip and then asked to try a bite of everything. She knew she might not be able to stomach everything but she wanted to at least have a taste.

The servants nodded and then worked together, filling up not one, not two but three plates of food. Korina hadn't realized there had been so many different dishes. She felt embarrassed, "Oh my...I didn't realize..."

"No," said the Duke. "It's a good choice." he quickly ordered a bite of everything just as she had before adding, "It has been a while since I tried new things,"

"Well I suppose it will be an adventure for us both," said Korina smiling.

"Yes," said the Duke smiling back at her.

The Countess eyed them both and their heaping plates of food but seemed to accept it as she ate scooped up some vegetables.

They all ate silently for a few minutes. Her grandmother sipped her soup and the Duke picked at his food, mostly he watched Korina wanting to see how she liked the food. Almost everything was a new flavor and texture. She was glad she'd only asked for a bite of everything. There were some foods that were quite bitter or spicy however there were a lot of food she liked. Some she wished she had more then one bite of, mostly it was the desserts. After one in particular the Duke had a plate of them brought closer to Korina.

Korina bit into a full cream tart and closed her eyes nearly losing herself to the taste of it. The Duke smiled and ordered to have one as well after they both finished their tarts the Duke seemed happy and asked, "Lady Andon, do you have any interests?"

Korinas' mouth was full before she could swallow and answer her grandmother did on her behalf, "Korina has many interests, of course becoming a dutiful wife if top among them,"

"Of course," she the Duke. Korina swallowed hard feeling akward...she was looking to get married but for her grandmother to be so so. She tried to move on from the subject and asked the Duke, "What are your interests,"

"I enjoy many things. I like nature, taking long walks, horseback riding, reading and games. I also enjoy building,"

"It is good to have so many interests. I can understand you interest in nature. It is so beautiful in Crestmoore, with all its rolling hills,"

"What was it like where you grew up?" asked the Duke before taking a sip of his wine.

"Parts of it were beautiful it could sometimes depend on the time of year and weather and of course how thick the smoke from the mines was,"

"Mines?" said the Duke curiously. "In Telabis?"

"Telabis?"

"I was told that is where you came from,"

"Oh no, I-"

"Horseback ridding." her grandmother interrupted, "I used to when I was younger. It wasn't rally my thing, my late husband, the Count now he loved it. Would spend hours riding all about. Dillie tried it a few times but given her heath we thought it best she not… I don't believe Korina has ever ridden a horse have you," said her grandmother before sipping her wine.

"No, I haven't had the pleasure,"

"Oh, well it something else, there is nothing quite like it. We have quite a few horses. Perhaps when Libby is teaching you needlepoint, I could teach you horseback riding. We could make a day of it,"

"I would love that," said Korina excitedly. She wanted to see the Duke again and Libby.

"We'll see," her grandmother said before coughing, "Our plans our quite full,"

Korina wanted to point out she wasn't aware of any plans but knew she probably shouldn't. They sat quietly for a moment. Korina tried more foods finding she liked the Brila Bird meat. She asked if she could have more and they gave her a leg. She wasn't quiet sure how to eat it. She used her fork and knife but eventually just picked it up and ate it off the bone.

The Duke looked at her stangly and her grandmothers eyes nearly popped out of her head. Korina put down the Brilla leg...realizing she'd messed up but how else was she to eat it. This was her first time seeing and eating one, no one had shown her. Her grandmother finished off her wine before turning to the Duke, "Libby, does she ride?"

"Yes," said the Duke looking away from Korina, "Since she was a small child,"

"Is she any good?"

"Quite,"

"Have you ever considered entering her, in any of the competitions,"

"Not really, she is quite shy,"

Her grandmother shook her head, "You have to nip that in the but when they are young. Have you considered sending her to a finishing school,"

"No," said the Duke. Korina could see he was upset by the mere suggestion, "She is happy here."

"Happiness is all fine and well but sometimes you need to push them to get the best results,"

"I think she's just fine as she is," said the Duke

Her grandmother went to speak. Korina quickly intervened. "Yes, she is so very sweet and kind. You've done quite a good job raising her,"

The Duke smiled at Korina but her grandmother couldn't leave it at that. "Yes...you've done quite well as a man... could do," Her tone was quite dismissive.

The Dukes body tensed and Korina stared at her grandmother. Usually her grandmother was not this… this spirited….was that the world. Korina helped her breath as it looked like her grandmother wanted to say even more. She could also see the Duke was nearing the end of his patience. Before either of them spoke, the massive dinning room doors burst open.

They all turned to see Baroness Corday rush into the room. Korina let out a breath but it came out as a whimper. Korina had been worried about what she would do without her but had made choices...decisions she now knew the Baroness would no doubt disprove of. She looked down at her dress...her plates of food her hair. Her stomach sunk she knew she was in for it...but she...she wasn't suppose to be coming...this night was quickly deteriorating...into one of her worst nights….

The Duke took notice of Korinas' reaction as his butler finally burst into the room. He looked frazzled, winded as he introduced the Baroness. She quickly bowed to the Duke and Korina's grandmother. Korina sat for a moment and then realized she should stand. She did so and curtsied to the Baroness when she stood upright again the Baroness eyes were wide…staring right at her.

She could feel the Baroness judging her, ripping her apart. Korina slowly shrunk back into her seat feeling smaller and smaller. What had she been thinking. She...she should have dressed herself as she thought the Baroness would and not as she had wanted…

The Duke reluctantly acknowledged the Baroness said, "Baroness Corday,"

"Duke Kerr," said the Baroness turning to look at him. She curtsied again. "Please forgive my sudden interruption. I must speak with Countess Bray at one,"

"What is it?" asked the Countess worried.

"Has something happened," asked the Duke becoming concerned.

"Something..yes….oh yes,"

"Well what is it?"asked the Countess, clutching a hand to her chest. Korina also began to feel alarmed.

"If you would give us a moment," said Baroness Corday, "I must speak with her privately,"

The Duke sat for a moment, clearly he wanted to know what was going on and as it was his house he could ask but instead he nodded, "Of course if it urgent,"

The Countess stood and went to the Baroness, "Is there a room we could use," asked the Baroness.

"Yes, Gwill, take them to the powder room,"

"Yes, sir," said Gwill he eyed the Baroness, like she might try to rush ahead of him and then moved. The Countess followed but the Baroness remained. "Korina...come,"

Korina looked at her. She thought she wanted to speak privately with her grandmother so she made no attempt to move. Again the Baroness called to her upset she'd not snapped out of her seat, "Korina!"

The Duke looked to the Baroness and then nodded to Korina, "I'll wait,"

She smiled at him and said, "Sorry," before getting up. She went with the Baroness and they were no sooner out of the room, when the Baroness snatched up her wrist. She practically yanked Korina to catch up with the Countess and Gwill.

***

Velona held onto Korina tightly as they made their way down the hall, he tried to make sense of just what he was doing...what he was thinking. It was one thing to check up on the Countess and Korina, and another to burst in on a dinner they were having with the Duke. Yet he hadn't been able to help himself.

When he arrived at the Bray's estate and learned they had already left, he thought he could catch them before they got there but he didn't. When he arrived at the Kerrs' and knew...they were inside...with him, he hadn't thought… he'd just knocked on the door before he knew it, he was running into the dinning room.

He had broken so, so may rules, not just societies and Crestmoores but his own and for… what… for what? He couldn't explain it...for once he couldn't justify his own actions...annoyed, he glanced at Korina as they walked...there were so many things...wrong with her.

He rolled his eyes and let out a groan, wondering if she had ever listened to a word he'd said, when it came to appearance. She was wearing a yellow dress that was only meant for outdoor extravaganzas' and her hair, it was down and loose with shit littered about in it. He didn't even want to get started on her makeup, what little there was of it.

Korina slowed and glanced back at him, wide eyed and curious, his breath caught as their eyes connected for a moment, angrily he turned away from her. He tightened his grip on her wrist and picked up their pace, yanking her to move faster. He hissed, "Stop dragging your feet,"

"Sorry," she squeaked and quickly rushed to keep up with him.

He stared forward and in the distance, the butler guested to a room. The Countess went in and Velona followed after her, dragging Korina along with him. The room was large and had a lot of vanity tables and mirrors. If he wasn't in a mood he might have admired it but in his current state, everything was shit.

When it was just them, the Countess turned to him and asked, "Avianna what is it? What's wrong?"

Velona paused for a long moment repeating, "What is it...What's wrong…." Shit, shit, shit he hadn't thought of an excuse. Korina pulled on her wrist and he realized, he was still holding onto it. He let go of her and scrambled to think of anything that would justify his behavior…

"Its...uhhh...ehhh..." he looked at Korina as she massaged her wrist, he noticed she had something on her face, "What is that on your face,"

"Where?" asked Korina.

"There," he pointed. Korina attempted to remove it but missed, frustrated he licked his thumb and wiped it off himself

The Countess looked at him peculiar and then grew impatient, "Avianna,"

"Right, sorry,"

Korina moved from his side and went to one of the mirrors to check her face. Velona watched her for a second and then looked to the Countess as she insisted, "What is it!"

"I...uh...Well I... need... your advice,"

"My advice," said the Countess, she seemed surprised.

"Yes," said Velona getting it. He knew what he could use now, "On one of my servants….he appears to be having an affair with Lady Waters,"

"Willamina," gasped the Countess.

That would have been something, wouldn't it but he quickly corrected, "No, Wendy,"

"Wendy...oh my," the Countesses eyes grew wide. There was shock but he could also see delight, at her learning something so scandalous.

"Yes...its quite distressing. I just learned today and am distraught over what I should do. Knowing you and how... wise you are, I knew I must speak with you at once,"

"Oh yes...yes...I understand. You must let go of this servant immediately!"

"But of course..." said Velona, "But what of...Willimina. Should I tell her? She would be crushed...her only daughter...unpure,"

"Oh my… yes...I did think Wendy had put on some weight when I last saw her...You don't think she is with child."

Velona gasped, "It could be….this is all just so much..." he pretended to stagger and then collapsed on a couch, in the center of the room. He held his hand to his face, shaking his head. The Countess patted him on the shoulder, seeking to comfort him. His eyes flickered and he knew now, was the time to get switch thing up "And oh…oh here we are at the Dukes… I...I am so sorry, have I interrupted something,"

The Countess sputtered caught and pulled back nervously."Oh...I...well I thought to write you but its' all happened so fast. Korina has been feeling so much better and I thought to let the Duke know and he insisted we have dinner with him at once. It was such short notice. There was so little I could do...and you've already done so much. We only made arrangements for you to prepare Korina for the Ball. I couldn't possibly burden you any further."

"Burden me never...Countess Bray, I consider you one of my nearest and dearest friends," Oh was he laying it on think.

The Countess seemed caught off guard, "Oh well... you...are one of mine as well..."

"Oh Yes," said the Baroness, "And when it comes to Korina don't hesitate to call upon me. I am always more then happy to assist a friend,"

"Yes...well I suppose I should have called upon you...to be honest this dinner, isn't going so well. Korina has made quite a few blunders, without you,"

He was happy to hear that. "Yes…yes…well there is still so much more she needs to learn. So much more I could teach her...if you wish,"

"I suppose more training wouldn't hurt...I really wish I'd taken an interest in Korina earlier… Perhaps after Dillie passed, I should have sent for her or paid for her to attend a finishing school. I could have done...something"

"Oh Vira," he said comforting her now, "You can't beat yourself up over the past. Look at all you've done for her now."

"Yes, I suppose so,"

They sat for a moment and then Velona stood and straighten himself. He thought it was time, to get to the point. He cleared his throat and turned to Vira, softly saying, "Countess Bray, as your friend...I was hoping I might express my concerns to you, honestly. I mean no offense but have you realized that this pairing between the Duke and Korina, cannot result in the outcome you would wish, namely marriage?"

Velona thought, he knew how the Countess was going to react but she surprised him. Smiling to herself, she let out a small sigh and said, "Oh, I know…"

"You...know," said Velona surprised, "Then why are you perusing this?"

"The Dukes interest in my granddaughter can't hurt. Her reputation as you know isn't the best, having her catch the eye of someone affluent, can only help her situation. People will no doubt talk...be curious, if not about her, then him. As you know he is a bit of a recluse. I thought Korina could also use the practice and...I dare say, selfishly, I liked the idea of walking these halls once...more."

Vira looked around the room, admiring its beauty. He had to admit, the old bat was sharper then he though. He wanted to squash this...but it would seem he had nothing to worry about. A weight lifted from his shoulders...he suppose he could allow the Countess to her fun, under his watchful eye of course. However right now, he just needed to get them out of here so that he could attend his dinner.

He smiled and said, "I dare say you are quite pragmatic Vira. Perhaps you should consider extending the Dukes interest,"

"How so?"

"It is clear the Duke is curious about Korina. Give that he can not marry her, he no doubt sent you a letter of interest to sate his curiosity. I am sure once the Duke has learned all her wishes to know, his interest in her will all but fade away. However if you were to prevent him from learning everything about her so quickly he would no doubt continue his pursuit a while longer."

"Perhaps but...how would I go about it?"

"Cut this evening short, you said it was a waste, inform the Duke you must assist me in an urgent matter. It isn't a lie you and I shall have to discuss the Waters affair at length,"

"Indeed," agreed the Countess. "But wont he be upset...we already had to delay this dinner once,"

"Yes...but this time it isn't your fault. You're assisting a friend, he can't fault you for that,"

"I suppose...but then what"

"Tomorrow you will pen a letter of apology and an invitation to your home. Can you imagine how it will look not only for you to have had dinner with the Duke but for him to have called upon you again at your own home,"

The Countess's face lit up with the prospect.

He continued. "I will of course arrange my schedule so that I can be there with you and make sure everything goes smoothly this time."

"Yes...yes...this has a lot of potential….but what if he declines..."

"He will not," he said. "Trust me, now we have been in her long enough let us gather Korina and-" Velona paused looking around the room. He didn't see Korina anywhere.

"Where is she?" said the Countess, also looking about.

"Korina," called Velona, "Korina."

She didn't respond. He rushed from the room and into the hallway, again couldn't see her anywhere. He scowled and seethed, "Korina!"

***

Korina wandered the halls of the Kerr manor, looking at all the different paintings and statues. She didn't plan to wander far, she just couldn't stand them gossiping, especially when they told her not to do so. She was learning a lot of things weren't as she was told and it was frustrating.

Tonight, was suppose to be a dinner, where her family and the Dukes', would come together and see if they were a match but...it didn't feel like they could talk much. Not with her grandmother who seemed bent on interrupting and upsetting the Duke, and now the Baroness with her urgent matter, that didn't seem all that urgent.

She knew a servant and a lady were never to be but if they were in love...did it really matter? Perhaps Korina was bias when it came to such things. She hadn't grown up here, lived by these rules all her life, thank goodness and to be fair her parents hadn't been equals…

They'd come from two different worlds, statuses apart but it hadn't mattered. When her father saw her mother, reading under a tree, he just knew she was the one for him and in turn, her mother had fallen head over heels, for him. Love was love...all the other stuff it hadn't...didn't matter at least that was how it was suppose to work...wasn't it?

More and more Korina felt like she knew so little of this world...the way things worked, vs how she believed and wanted them to work. She let out a heavy sigh and stopped in front of a large painting. She took in all the intricate details and colors, losing herself for a moment. It was almost like she was looking through a window, into another world. The longer she looked at the painting, the more things she noticed. It was-

"It's one of my favorites," said a voice from behind Korina.

She turned to see the Duke, standing behind her, "Oh...I am so sorry I didn't mean to wander about,"

"It's okay, is everything alright?" asked the Duke, stepping up beside her.

"I...I think so," she bit her lip and knew she probably shouldn't say anything, about it, "I...I thought I'd give them a moment,"

He nodded and then looked at the painting for a moment. Korina looked at him, admiring him. She found him beautiful almost as beautiful as the painting if not more so. She bit her lip, wondering if it was okay to call a man beautiful or if he could only be handsome…Without turning from the painting, the Duke drew her from her thoughts, asking, "Are you enjoying yourself?"

"Enjoying myself," said Korina. "Oh yes,"

"Are you sure? Its just you and me...if there was anything that displeased you-"

"No..." interrupted Korina, "Everything was amazing...is amazing... its just,"

"Just what?" asked the Duke turning to face her.

"It's just uh...I wish we could talk more…like the other day at the ball...like now without all the rules"

"I'm glad to see I'm not the only one," he said, stepping closer to her. "Perhaps….I can figure something out,"

Korina wanted to ask him what he meant but before she could, a voice called out to her. "KORINA!"

It sounded strange and for a moment, she didn't recognize it. She and the Duke turned and saw the Baroness. She was further down the hall, barreling towards them. Korina stepped back, knowing she wasn't suppose to be alone or talking with the Duke, given he was a man.

The Baroness reached them and then said, "There you've gotten off to," her voice sounded uneven and strange again.

The Baroness looked at her and then the Duke. She curtsied and cleared her throat. She sounded more like herself as she said. "Sorry for interrupting yet again, her grandmother's been looking all over for her,"

"Sorry," said Korina, "I...I was just looking at all the artwork,"

"Yes, well you shouldn't wander in other peoples' houses,"

"Its quite alright," said the Duke, "She is my guest, I wish for her to do as she pleases,"

Korina blushed and the Baroness flashed her a sharp look before smiling at the Duke. "Of course Duke Kerr, whatever you wish,"

The Duke studied the Baroness "I do hope everything is okay now,"

"I'm afraid not," said the Baroness sadly.

Korinas' grandmother made her way down the hall a moment later, "Oh there she is….Korina you shouldn't wander off,"

"I'm sorry," said Korina yet again. It really wasn't that big of a deal.

"It's alright," assured the Duke once more.

Her grandmother curtsied to the Duke and then the Baroness took her arm, "Countess Bray, I was just about to tell the Duke, we are to take our leave,"

"Oh Yes," said the Countess, "The Baroness needs my assistance in a private matter. I'm sorry but Korina and I will have to leave at once,"

The Duke nodded "I understand, if you must go,"

Korina let out a heavy sigh. She didn't want to go...it felt like they'd just gotten here.

"Yes, I'm sorry," said the Countess. "Thank you for having us,"

"Perhaps, another time" said the Duke, looking to Korina.

She stared back at him as the Baroness said, "Perhaps…good evening Duke Kerr,"

"Yes, good evening," said the Countess

The Duke nodded to them both and they turned to leave. Korina lingered a bit and the Baroness called out to her, "Say goodnight Korina," Korina gave the Baroness a look, she wasn't a child, she didn't need to be told. She sighed again and then curtsied to the Duke, "It was a pleasure,"

The Baroness scowled at her parting words as the Duke said, "The pleasure was all mine,"

They turned to leave and he offered to walk them out. The Baroness said he didn't have to but the Duke insisted, much to Korinas' delight. When they got outside, they said goodbyes once again as they waited for their carriages. The Baroness joined her and her grandmother in their carriage and had her own follow them.

The Duke stood in the doorway, watching to make sure they left safely, Korina kept her eyes on him for as long as she could. The Baroness had Korinas' grandmother fill her in on what had gone on at the Kerrs'. When she was finished, they made plans to meet the next morning to discuss the Waters.

The carriage pulled over and the Baroness bid them a goodnight. She lingered for a moment until Korina gave her eye contact and also said goodnight. The carriage started up again and Korina thought it had been pointless for them to leave so suddenly. She stewed for a bit and her grandmother informed her she would be training more with the Baroness. Korina was disappointed but did her best to hide it.

When they got home she went straight to her rooms and changed. She thought about the nights events, the tour, the dinner, all the interruptions and the private moment she and the Duke had shared. She held her hand to her chest and wondered what he'd meant by he'd figure something out.

She hoped they could find a way to spend more time together and speak openly. She longed to get to know him...to just be around him. In bed she wondered if it was normal, to want to be around someone all the time.

The next morning, the Baroness was over. Korina heard her chatting with her grandmother about the Waters. Korina mostly stayed in her rooms and kept to herself. That afternoon, her grandmother sent the Duke a letter, apologizing for leaving so suddenly and invited him to their estate.

The Duke replied quickly and by dinner, letters arrived for both Korina and her grandmother.

Korinas' grandmother quickly read her letter and was delighted that the Duke had accepted her apology and would love to call upon them at their leisure. She asked Korina about her letter and Korina said it was brief that it just said he enjoyed their dinner. Her grandmother was overjoyed and quickly rushed off to write the Baroness.

Korina went up to her rooms and read the Dukes' letter once again. She hadn't exactly been honest with her grandmother. Korina didn't like lying to her but at the same time, she knew if her grandmother knew, what the letter had really said she might not approve.

Lady Andon,

If you wish to speak privately, meet me in your garden at midnight and tell no one.

Duke Kerr

Korina smiled to herself reading it again and again before she held the letter to her chest. She checked to see what time it was and found it was only a little before six, that left six hours until they would meet again. Six hours that felt like a lifetime. She tried to busy herself and spent some time walking around the estate and garden, seeing how she might get outside, when it was time. She found a possible path that she might be able to use and then thought of an excuse just in case she got caught.

Throughout the rest of the evening, she waited and watched the clock. Around ten everyone was going to bed. At eleven it was quiet and near midnight it was as if the house were empty. Korina slipped out of her room and crept down stairs. She had a bit of difficulty finding and opening the door. She regretted not bringing a candle but couldn't risk the light being seen.

When she got outside it was cold and there was fog everywhere. She could hear all sorts of rustling and creatures, crickets, owls and a distant howl. She bit her lip shivering, she fought the urge to rush back inside and continued down the path, to the garden. She knew what she was doing was wrong….but she wanted to see the Duke again, she wanted to speak with him privately and knew this might be her only chance.

When she reached the garden, it felt so different, usually the sun was out and there were flowers and birds everywhere. Now it felt...eerie…a chill ran up her spine and she looked all around. A bush shook and she stepped back, she could barley hear the snapping of twigs, over her own heart beat and then someone whispered, "Korina….Korina.."

Korina opened her mouth to respond and then paused…She thought it might be the Duke but he usually called her Lady Andon. She supposed it could be one of the servants and if so she was in trouble. She stepped back as a figure, stepped out of the bush, again it whispered, "Korina,"

She swallowed hard and sputtered back, "Who...who is it?"

"It's me...Duke Kerr," called the figure. Korina watched as the figure drew closer. When he was only a few steps away, she could tell it was indeed the Duke. Her heart leapt and she rushed to him without thinking. She reached out taking hold of his hands. She held onto him for a moment and then realized she'd forgotten to curtsy. She quickly went to do so but he didn't let go of her arms.

"Don't...when its just you and me you don't have to bow to me." She stopped and then smiled at him nodding. She realized he might not see her nod and quickly said, "As you wish, Duke Kerr,"

"Please...call me West as well," said the Duke, moving to her side,"

"West," said Korina as he offered out his arm.

"May I call you Korina?" asked the Duke as she took his arm.

"Oh yes," said Korina, "I almost didn't know it was you, when you did but I like it."

They took a few steps, walking together and then West leaned in asking "So what is it that you wish to know?"

Korina smiled and said, "Everything,"

Thank you for Reading^^