Drumming my fingers, I endured Duchess Opal’s solipsism. Every word landed lighter than a feather, meaning sapped from her lush lips. Her makeup sparkled in the glow of the chandelier, but her eyes had no such gleam. The vision of opulence dressed in layers of expensive fabrics and precious jewels.
Yet none of it compared to her extreme sense of self-worth.
“You seem bored. Perhaps I should regale you with the tale of my first hunt. Men love hunting, but I find it quite frivolous. Nevertheless, I went with my father to catch a fox, and wouldn’t you know it, it’s quite exhilarating.”
I hummed acknowledgement, watching the door for a miracle.
“My word, Sir Perseus, I do believe this is going well. Your silent manner is so calming. I could talk for days!”
If only she had more knowledge than she had words to say.
“Did you hear about Lady Wilhelmina?”
A thunder echoed through the room. Barret strode in with a scowl, smoothing his fine navy coat and lush locks.
For once, his presence brought a smile. “Is it that time already?”
Too consumed with his own solipsism to notice how he injured the duchess’, Barret scoffed, “It’s been time. If I wasn’t such a gentleman, I would’ve left for Sir Timothy’s already. But alas, I cannot bear to harm the feelings of a friend.”
Ignoring his puckered lip and her incredulous gasp, I rose. “My apologies, Duchess Opal. I have to be off, but I appreciate your visit.” I ran out the door before she could make an excuse or request to return. Mother had that covered.
Descending the steps two at a time, I absorbed the warm glow of the afternoon. The beauty of spring painted the lawns around the cobblestone walk and filled the air with an assortment of flowers. Taking the reins of my horse, I relished his gentle snort and sparkling gaze.
“Come along,” Barret chided, “we’re already late.”
We mounted and left my father’s manor. Hooves clopping on rock and beaten dirt, we descended into oak trees and lush brush. A creek whispered down the hill toward the valley.
Barret said as many pointless words as the duchess. City gossip, personal achievements, and rural disgust. After ten years acquaintance, I could skim his dialogue for pertinent details.
Once down the hill, the trees opened to long grass. Wheat danced on the horizon, the sounds of activity growing near. We kept to the beaten path, soon finding ourselves amidst the village. Simple garb, calloused hands, weary expressions.
And laughter.
Children raced across the street, weaving between carts and horses. Women collected around a well, giggling as they took turns fetching water. Tunics hung on wire snapped in the wind while a mother chastised her rowdy children. The scent of bread thickened the air, masking the stench of manure.
I slowed.
“Goodness, Perseus. Keep up the pace! I don’t wish to be amongst such grubby people.”
Obliging Barret’s desire, I quickened. But my heart yearned for their simplicity.
Climbing out of the valley, lush grass and sparse trees followed our path to Sir Timothy’s home. A couple groundskeepers opened the gate on our approach, horseshoes clicking on seamless pavement. Marble mermaids danced in the central fountain while gardeners tended to towering columns of white roses.
Sir Timothy stood on the steps, glaring at his pocket watch. While we dismounted, he chastised, “It’s improper to be late.”
“Forgive me, sir,” I said. “I was engaged with another party for longer than I intended.”
His nose twitched. “Must’ve been a woman.”
“A foul assumption, brother.” The click of heels introduced Lady Wilhelmina. Loose waves of gold framed her heart-shaped face, light powder accentuating her rosy skin. Swinging a pink parasol onto her shoulder, she gave a slight curtsy to the visitors. “At least your delay didn’t prevent your coming.”
I bowed slightly.
“My love!” Barret tossed his reins to an unprepared servant and took her unoffered hand. “How I despise making you await my illustrious presence.”
Lips pinched, Wilhelmina pinked. “No need to apologize.”
“Oh but I must. Such atrocities shall not occur after our union.”
Fishing her gloved fingers from his grasp, she descended the rest of the steps. “Shall we walk?”
Sir Timothy shook his head. “It’s much too warm, sister.”
“Just a few minutes.” She fluttered her lashes at me, gaze begging for escape.
I held back a smirk. “I can escort the lady while you both rest inside.”
Barret gave a flourishing bow in thanks before escorting his brother-to-be inside.
With them out of sight, Wilhelmina opened her parasol and took my arm. “How have you survived so long in Barret’s presence?”
I led her toward the gardens, choosing a path that looked over the valley. “Practice.”
“If only he weren’t a cousin of the royal family. Timothy wouldn’t insist upon the match.”
“The trouble of social ladders.”
“If only we could be like them.” She tugged on my arm, halting in front of a marble balcony. The village bustled beneath us, work and play intermixed. Wilhelmina never turned away, taking in the casual nature of the people.
“I’m sure they have their own problems, my lady.”
“None of which are pride.”
I touched her hand, securing her attention. “Then let’s strive to be like them. Selfless despite our station.”
Life returned to her delicate skin. “You’re too hopeful for your own good, Percy.”
Heart fluttering, I cleared my throat. “Everyone needs a little faith.”