Chapter Twelve - Elliot - Reaching New Heights

I stared out the window as the carriage moved on, watching her small form grow smaller. Half of me was relieved I had left. I hadn't wanted to just leave a lady in the pouring rain, but I was glad to be out of the danger of her discovering me. Yet, the other half wanted to go back. She had me curious. Her clever comment about not exactly being friends had caught me off guard. With my comment about not being strangers, girls like her sisters would've giggled and maybe even blushed. So why hadn't she?

Common sense said she knew I was a flat liar. But the small smile on my face wondered if that was perhaps my first glimpse into her real personality.  And why was she so far out in the rain anyways?

"Excuse me, sir," I addressed the driver, "Would you mind stopping once more?"

He didn't bother hiding his annoyance, "Do you want to get to the hotel or not?"

"I've changed my mind," I chuckled, "Just drop me here."

I grabbed my umbrella and left some extra allowance on the seat as the carriage slowed. I thanked the driver and climbed out, not entirely sure what I was doing. The carriage splashed me as it drove off and I realized that I had acted on impulse. Now that I was out in the rain I wasn't sure of my next move. What was I going to do, chase Miss Ainsworth down and demand to know why my charm didn't have her swooning?

"Neeellly!"
I jerked my head around; It was Mr. Ainsworth's deep voice. His daughter's lighter one soon echoed it.

I looked back over my shoulder to see them splitting up across the lawn, continuing to call out into the rain. I hesitated, considering the sudden options before me.

The letter I'd recieved from Charles today said he'd been delayed and it might be a few more days before his return. I'd be considerably bored at the hotel, just as I had been before I left. This was also another chance to prove to Ms. Ainsworth that I was indeed a friend, not a stranger.

***

"Mr. Ainsworth, is something wrong?"
"Oh," he seemed relatively surprised to see me, "Mr. Samuelson. What are you doing out in this weather?"

I laughed and tried to speak over the growing roar of the storm, "What are you doing out shouting in it. Can't be healthy for the vocals I imagine."
He smiled beneath the wet board he held over his head for proection. But concern soon ruled his features once more.
"It seems my youngest has gone exploring. But its nothing you need concern yourself about."

"Well," I grinned, "I think I'm as about as wet as I can get. What can I do to help?"

He seemed a little relieved. "Well, if you don't mind, my eldest daughter and I were going to split up and search while the others mind the house. Would you mind going with her? I'd feel much better about it."

I glanced Ms. Ainsworth's way. She had been calling for her sister for awhile and was now walking towards us. I couldn't read her expression well through the rain but I hoped she wouldn't mind--it was the perfect opportunity for my tactics.
Eager to please the man vital to my cause as well, I turned my gaze up towards my umbrella.

"I think there's room."

He smiled, "Good. Thank you."

***

"I'm not sure where to start," she said, hugging her soaking shawl around her in attempt to get warm, "She left hours ago."

I pursed my lips in thought for a moment, trying to imagine which direction looked most appealing to a little girl. Childhood days of my own temporary escapes provided ample sources and I soon located a sturdy wooden fence several yards away from their property--perfect for climbing.

"I might have an idea," I replied, "But the roads are a little muddy. Mind crossing some country?"
She looked like she could care less so long as we found her sister.  So I didn't trouble her with any more questions and we moved on. I tried my best to keep up with her worried stride in order to be the gentleman and keep the umbrella overhead but it was nearly in vain. She didn't slow until we reached the fence.

I easily leapt over it and she let me help her over as well. We continued across the wet, entangled tall grass with only the constant thud of the rain on the umbrella and the brush of our feet against the foliage. It was a good five minutes before she finally struck up a conversation.

"So shouldn't a man as important as you have something other to do than tromp around in the rain?"
"Plenty," I smirked, "But a man as important as I can chose when to do those things. Now which direction are we going?"

She looked over at me incredulously, "I thought you were the leader here. Its comforting to know you're so prepared."

I smiled, relieved that she felt at ease enough to tease.

"I brought an umbrella."

She only shook her head with a soft smile and I was reminded of how pretty she was. Her golden-colored hair looked darker in the rain and stuck to her face but it didn't mar her image in the least. In fact, in some ways it enhanced it. It had now fallen out of its former pinned state, allowing it to fall more freely down her back. Those brown eyes that I could never seem to read looked on into the rain and her small mouth seemed pursed in both determination and thought.

Meanwhile, the suit Charles had bought me was utterly soiled. My bangs constantly got in my eyes and I could feel mud kicking up from my feet onto my trousers.

"Nelly!" Ms. Ainsworth tried again, bringing me from my thoughts. I examined our surroundings again. They remained relatively the same: tall grass trimmed with small flowers and trees, the entire image swaying in the wind. Then, through the slanted sheet of rain, I spotted a good-sized blur.

"The grove of trees," I muttered to myself. Of course! The hideout she had described. On impulse, I grabbed her hand and began pulling her behind me, "I know our direction now!"

She seemed a little startled by the action but was too busy gathering her dripping skirts and trying to keep up with my long legs to say much. Frankly, I startled myself with it. I hadn't acted in such a way since I was back home. There were no strategies behind it, no speculating before it. It was simply doing what came naturally--and it was strangely refreshing.

Before long the blur grew into individual trees. Ms. Ainsworth quickly caught on.
"Nelly's hideout, of course!"

"Where is it at?" I yelled over the increasing wind.
"I'm not sure from here," she replied, "Nelly!"
I followed suit and began hollering her name as we stumbled through the small patch of trees. Our voices were nearly hoarse by the time Ms. Ainsworth turned towards me.

"I don't seen her anywhere," she said, her voice full of worry, "Should we look elsewhere?"

I was just about to nod in agreement before, through all the noise around us, we heard a small yelp. Immediatly we glanced at each other for confirmation of the noise and then broke into a hard run towards it.

By now the wind was pushing completely against us, pulling at my jacket and trousers mercilessly. I closed the umbrella as it quickly lost its purpose and wrapped an arm around Ms. Ainsworth in a chivalrous attempt to support her as we pushed forwards.

We called for her again and followed the noise for several long mintues before we found the hideout. It was just as Ms. Ainsworth had described. There was a small hole in one of the trees hardly larger than a dinner plate. However, it seemed the girl had become tired of her usual play place and climbed the actual tree itself. Like a frightened kitten, she clung to a thick branch a good twelve or so feet up, her face wet from both tears and rain.

"It's alright, Nelly," Ms. Ainsworth called out, "Just climb down slowly. We'll be right here to help you."
"No!" she violently shook her head, "the wind will blow me off!"
"It won't, Nelly," she tried once more, "I promise. Just move slowly."

The small girl moved about an inch before whimpering and clinging tighter, "I can't!"

Her older sister frowned in thought. I could tells she'd like nothing more than to climb up and retrieve her sister, but with heavy skirts and a guest present, she seemed reluctant. Still, that appeared to be the only way to get her down.

I began pulling off my wet gloves and she looked over at me.
"Oh no, Mr. Samuelson, you don't have to."
I recognized the tone more as spiteful than apologetic. She didn't seem fond of being dependent on people. Had I not been standing here I was sure she'd been up the tree a long time ago. But I only smirked and strained my voice once more, "Relax, Ms. Ainsworth. You've done far more than most ladies would've done already," I moved to climb the tree and then paused to add, "Besides, I might need someone to catch me."

I didn't wait for her reaction before climbing. My hands had become a little softer during my stay here, but they fared well enough. I scraped up my knees and tore a hole in my shirt maneuvering from branch to branch and found the feat much harder than it used to be. Lack of practice and bad weather greatly influenced my abilities. The hard part, however, was climbing back down.
"I've got you Nelly!" I yelled, wrapping one arm around her small waist, "You can let go!"
"Mr. Samuelson?" she risked a quick look over her shoulder.
Her sudden excited tone made me grin, "Yes. It's Mr. Samuelson. Now let go so I can get you down."

She did so reluctantly. I held onto her until she had inched herself  off of the branch and then she immediatly latched onto me. With a small chuckle, I shifted my weight to balance to the two of us.
"Alright," I said, "You hold onto me and I'll climb down. Agreed?"
She nodded and wrapped her arms tighter around my neck. It was then, looking down, that I realized just how high up we were. The wind blew branches into my face and the rain continued to pelt me. And, as if to add to the trauama, the branch I had most my weight on suddenly lurched. Nelly squealed in my ear and I realized that if I didn't get moving, we'd go down the easy way.

 It was a long, nerve-riding trip to the ground with Nelly tugging on my hair and the slippery footholds, but we eventually made it. Ms. Ainsworth tackled the next challenge of prying her sister off of me.

Despite the trauma, Nelly quickly recovered and jabbered on to me the entire journey back. I was informed of every topic ranging from her new slippers to her doll's name. Though I could tell Ms. Ainsworth was a little embarressed by her sister's carrying on, even she contributed a little to the conversation. The familiar suspicion or uneasiness seemed to have ebbed away some. That meant my worst threat was close to overcome! And before Charles even knew it had been there.

Now to explain the hole in my shirt...

Chapter Eleven - Nora - An Opening Up

The carriage whizzed by, and I thought, luckily enough, perhaps I had just avoided humiliation and a sure lecture from whoever was inside. Unfortunately, I had no such luck.  Before the carriage was completely out of sight, it slowed, until it finally stopped, and I sighed, knowing what was to come.

The weather had been stable, to be sure, this morning. Had there been even a hint of rain, I was positive I would have never embarked upon a walk in the countryside. And so far from home. I sighed again. Father was sure to tease me about having 'silly' girls who can't even keep out of a rainstorm. Now, I was completely soaked, and whoever was in the carriage more than likely thought I was a incapable little girl.

"Miss Ainsworth!" Mr. Samuelson popped his head out of the carriage first, then an umbrella, followed by the rest of his body. "What a surprise!"

He didn't even know the half of it. And I felt my eyebrows raise, as I comtemplated whether seeing him in the carriage was a blessing or a curse.

"Mr. Samuelson." I curtsied, feeling a bit ridiculous as water dripped off the tip of my nose. I was soaked to the bone. Every inch of me was drenched, despite my attempts at trying to keep the heavy rainstorm away from me. I had unwrapped my shawl and now held it above my head, fruitless as it was; I was a lost cause.

"What are you doing out in this weather?" He looked a bit surprised, but otherwise, he didn't seem to be judgemental or angry.

"I-I didn't mean to. I don't go out walking in rainstorms, normally, that is." I felt foolish, and suddenly I was self-concious about my whole apperance. I probably looked like something the cat dragged in. Probably worse. My hair, which at one point had been pinned up, was slowly coming undone, and hung in loose, limp, wet, clumps. My clothes were a lot worse for wear. And everything was dripping wet.

"Well, I think I've kept you in the rain long enough, why don't you take a seat in the carriage?" He opened the door, and I curtsied before heading straight into the carriage, drips and all. It's not like I had a choice, I felt obligated, and really, I had no arguement to let him just let me be. What could I say to him, 'Sorry, no, I like walking in the rain by myself. So, you go on ahead'?

"Thank you." I stated sincerely, and he smirked.

"Looks like the cab won't be needing a handwashing." He nodded, and I realized I was making a huge puddle not just on the seat, but around my feet too, on the floor.

"Oh dear." I shifted, which helped nothing, and Mr. Samuelson's grin grew. I felt like grimacing in annoyance, but soon found myself laughing aloud instead, Mr. Samuelson was soon to follow. "I fear this handsom cab will never allow you to be their customer again. At least, not as long as you're offering wet stranger's rides."

"Oh, but we are hardly stranger's Miss Ainsworth."

"Granted, but we are hardly friends." I stated, and Mr. Samuelson smirked again.

"Alright, well, I'm sure with a little effort on both our parts, we can change that." I looked at Mr. Samuelson, and couldn't help but notice how handsome he looked. His blonde hair, which I hadn't picked up on before because of his usual top hats, was now uncovered, and his blue eyes seemed to be even bluer because of this fact.

"Well, alright then." I stated, and we fell into a somewhat comfortable silence as the ride passed along, something I thought I would never achieve with a man I suspected to be a probable liar. I shook my head. No, I shouldn't be thinking he is a liar, not until I have major proof. Granted, I did overhear him change his last name, but it was all speculation, and who knew who this man that sat beside me truly was.

"What?" Mr. Samuelson surprised me as he said this.

"Excuse me?" I pushed some of my wet locks away from my face, and turned my gaze to the man next to me.

"You just shook your head. Why?" Well he was very perceptive, I'd give him that.

"Oh.... I.... I was just thinking about Nelly's favorite hiding place." I said lamely, trying not to let him in on the fact that I was actually thinking of him.

"Truly? And where's that?" Mr. Samuelson looked out the window, and I pointed it out.

"That grove of trees. There's a hollow spot right in the middle tree, and she can just barely squeeze into it."

"Hmmm... I best check that out for myself." Mr. Samuelson grinned, and I felt a little less stupid for pointing it out.

In no time, we pulled up to my estate, and Mr. Samuelson didn't hesitate to jump out of the carriage and running around to pull open my door.

"Thank you. Again." I took his hand as he helped me out, and then he bowed, and I curtsied again.

"My pleasure Miss Ainsworth." He stepped back into the carriage and I stood there and watched as it pulled out. I got resoaked, but it was worth it, as I stood there, trying to figure out exactly who the man could be.

Chapter Ten - Elliot - Climbing the Social Ladder

"I should be back by noon tommorrow," Charles clamped his suitcase shut, "Usually these spasms of my mother don't last long. She has a habit of  feigning illness in order to earn herself some company."
I handed him a pair of folded trousers he forgot to pack and he scowled.
"And you have all confidence in me working on my own?"
He shut his case once more with a smile, "Not entirely. But I'd much rather take my chances with your mistakes than my mother's fury."

I laughed, "Fair enough. And I assume you have a list of instructions?"

"Yes, actually," he grinned, "But only two things: book yourself a room at that hotel and then lie low. Such actions should assist you in your endeavors to not foil our plan."

I nodded and Charles grabbed his suitcases. He turned to me, looked me up and down for a moment, and then smiled, "Well. Good luck to you."

"You might be in greater need of it," I chuckled.

***

The hotel manager pushed a sheet of paper across the desk, "Sign here, if you will, and include the length of your intended stay."

"Thank you," I smiled and then stirred the quill around in the inkwell in thought. According to policy, there were ways I could maneuver around payment until my actual leave of the hotel. And ever since my arrival I had become a fair adept at such a sport; I simply needed to come to a decision of when that time would be.

"Five months," I muttered to myself and signed my name. It was just enough time to accomplish what I needed to and then make myself scarce. As successful as I sometimes liked to think myself, it never hurt to set up a few safety nets.

With a good-natured grin, I slid the sheet back, "Here you are, my good man."

He quickly looked it over and then granted me directions to my room. I followed them, lugging my suitcases of new belongings up the steps and around several corners until I came to the door.

As soon as I stepped foot inside, I nearly dropped my luggage out of surprise. I stumbled to catch it again and then feasted my eyes all the more on the sight. The room was more spacious than Charles' guestroom and it appeared that every spare ledge or corner was trimmed with ornate designs and decorations. Thick, colorful curtains framed the glass window and there was a small couch in the corner full of embroidered cushions. A feathery quilt covered the large bed with pillows that seemed to be stuffed with the very clouds of the sky.

Surely I had expected something to the effect, but the grandeur of it all exceeded even my imaginations. It wasn't a palace and looked as if it could use a quick dusting, but I knew if my family had any knowledge as to my location, I'd be the envy of them all.

With a small laugh of disbelief, I walked across the room, dropped my luggage, and threw myself onto the mattress. I let my self sink into it with complete contentment and came to the decision that I'd forever reside in the upper class if only I were able to return to such a luxury every night.

Perhaps the only flaw in it all was the fact that Charolette's name could've been etched over every surface. I could see why my staying here would impress her to the extent that it did; it was expensive, gaudy, and completely unneccesary--in perfect parrellelism with her concept of happiness.

No matter. I was sure this decision would help in other social areas as well and, as far as future dance partners went, there were many other fish in the sea besides Miss Evans.

As for Charles' whole plan of lying low for two days, my endurance lasted the length of a quater of an hour. Though my new sleeping quaters held much excitement, frivolous furniture could only provide so much company. I tried a book to quench my restlessness but found reading to be more of a chore than an enjoyment. At length, I simply found myself outside of the hotel and climbing aboard the local hansom cab.

***

"Why Mr. Samuelson!" Mrs. Evan's exclaimed, "What a wonderful surprise. What brought you from your busy endeavors?"

"I apologize for not notifying you of my arrival ahead of time," I said with a small bow, "I was just passing your lovely home and thought I might stop by for a visit."

She smiled welcomingly, "We're glad you did. Here, come in. My daughter is in the parlor; she'll be more than happy to see you."

My reasoninging behind this visit was solely for the notorious Evans' gossip. Their shallow outlooks and petty remarks never ceased to greatly annoy me but without Charles here to recommend me to people or their homes, this seemed my only directory.

After all the usual greetings, I struck up a conversation concerning a promising house I had seen on the way, observing their slightly wilted flower boxes. It was the perfect bait. Before long, I knew the occupants' names, enough history to hold a pleasant conversation with them, and directions to the homes of their aquaintences. It was salted with bitterness and resentment of course, but I was able to sift the pure information from it.

My visit wasn't long. This fact was made known to me by the look of disapointment Charolette shot me and her consecutive invitations to visit again--all of which I agreed to by way of mouth but not heart. From Miss Evan's behavior I learned not only of my next destination, but of the idea that I needed to begin avoiding her presence. If I wasn't cautious with my bachelor status, her parents would get more involved and I'd have far more falling into my hands than the Gransville estate.

The rest of the day afterwards carried on most pleasantly. I visited the first home, telling the family that I'd heard well of them and had the desire to meet them myself. I retrieved more names from them, left on good terms, and moved on down the chain. Since the cab was absent, I chose to walk. This also worked to my advantage as I was able to greet those walking the streets and even make a few generous donations to those I spotted in the lower classes. I stopped in shops for the sole intention of giving a cheerful tip or two and socializing with the customers there and even dared joining a circle of peers I recognized from the ball.

By the time I arrived back at the hotel, most of the money Charles had lent me was gone and my pockets empty. However, my status was full to bursting. Charles' approval would be hard to judge as I had completely disregarded his advice. For the present, however, my last stop was a deliciously soft bed and I wasn't about to let any worries damper a good night's sleep.

Chapter Nine - Nora - Explanations and Expectations

"The gentleman back there?" Hodges raised an eyebrow at me, his handsome face growing more handsome as his dark blue eyes grew with confusion.

"A person of no consequence, I can assure you." I insisted, our tree was in view now, and both of us picked up our speed in excitement.

"No future suitor? Or even a suitor of consideration? Not in anyway someone I should be worried about?" Hodges looked at me, protection of my heart the only thing on his mind.

"Hodges, if there were anyone that was in danger of stealing my heart, you would be the first to know." I stated, crossing my arms defiantly. He moved to the tree, leaning against it as he slid down the trunk. Until he was sitting on the grass. He patted the side next to him, and I joined him.

"Good. Because even a man of 15,000 pounds and of great consequence wouldn't be good enough for my Nora." Hodges grinned playfully, and I laughed.

"At that rate, I will remain an old maid, much to Charlotte Evans' amusement." I playfully touched Hodges' shoulder and he laughed.

"Alright, I'm sure some man will come around, but he must have the full approval of me before he can get to you."

"Deal." I grinned.

*

"Nora! You never told us you saw Mr. Scott in town!" Minevera chided, as she held up a newly recieved note, and I looked up from my needlework just enough to give her a look to show that it had never crossed my mind.

"It was a brief encounter. I found it an insignificant event. Nothing much to mention." I shrugged, and went back to the dress I was repairing. It had a huge whole near the bottom, but it was one of my favorite dresses, and so I had to repair it.

"You could have mentioned he was in town at least." Minevera sniffed, feeling burned from my forgetfulness. It had been two days from the experience, and it had easily slipped my mind. I removed the insignificant thought, allowing more room for things that actually held some water.

"He is one of the biggest bacholer's, back in London. A very wealthy man, probably more so than our own Mr. Samuelson." Hettie whispered confidentially.

Oh great. They were back on oogling Mr. Scott. Just what we needed around here, more talk of trying to catch the eye of the wealthiest men on the market.

"Can we please get back to our needlework? Else nothing will get mended around here." I looked over Hettie and Minevera's sewing, both of which, hadn't been barely touched. Hettie's hadn't even been touched at all, and Minevera's seemed to only have one or two stitches than it had before. 

"We cannot keep it for long. This letter here says that Mr. Scott is to call upon us in exactly 20 minutes." Minevera held up the letter matter-of-factly, pleased with herself.

"Oh, Nora, my mind will never be on needlework if Mr. Scotts is so near. Can we please put it up?" Hettie nearly bounded out of her seat, the way she bobbed up and down in excitement.

As much as I didn't like it, I knew it was a fruitless attempt to keep them preoccupied whilest their minds wandered to the bacholer himself.

"Alright, put it up. But as soon as he leaves, we have to get something valuable done." I insisted, and my two sisters squeeled in delight and put their baskets up wasting no time, just the opposite of what they had been seconds before. 

I gave a small laugh, knowing the two were quite ridiculous in their endeavors. 

*

"Miss Ainsworth, Miss Minevera, Miss Henrietta. All of you are looking quite lovely." Mr. Scotts bowed before each of us, and we curtsied back before allowed to be seated. "I felt the need to visit you because of each of you're compelling letters, wanting me to visit." Mr. Scott stated casually.

"Sorry for not corresponding earlier, Mr. Scotts. Nora hadn't told us that you were in town." Minevera gave a defying glance towards me, and I scooted painfully back in my chair, self-concious of my mistake now that Mr. Scott's intimidating form was in the same room. 

"Do you plan on staying long?" Hettie asked, all to curious.

"Yes, for now. I have business with you're father. The Granville estate, to be exact. It has caught my eye, and I'm hoping to secure it for my own." Mr. Scott caught my eye, and it took all my strength not to leave my jaw gaping open at the surprise.

The Granville estate... The same estate Mr. Samuelson was after. I swallowed hard as Mr. Scott's looked me over.

"Are you feeling well Miss Ainsworth? You looked quite troubled, just now." His icy stare brought me back to myself.

"Just fine. I just remembered someone else had brought up the Gransville estate, besides you. Are many people going to be after this estate?" I wondered aloud. My father might have been the banker, but he didn't allow his daughter into his business very often. I was just in the dark about what was going on as the next guy.

"Hardly. Not much competition can be had for a house such as that. As much as it seems worth, it has much want for repairs, and undoubtedly the house isn't in much of an advantagous location. What did this... 'other person' have to say about the estate?" Mr. Scott interogated, as Hettie and Minevera looked on bored. They already wanted to change the subject, if only for the fact that they had little to contribute.  

"Very little." I gave a small grimace, not wanting to bring up Mr. Samuelson while Hettie and Minevera were around. Besides that, something told me Mr. Scott was soon enough to meet the man himself, and I in no way wanted to be thought of as connected to such a man as Mr. Samuelson.

The subject was soon changed, and for the rest of Mr. Scott's visit, very little was said or brought up about it. Finally, the hour was up, and Mr. Scott begged us leave, as he had another stop to make before checking back in at the hotel.

"May I see you out?" Minevera asked, already jumping out of her seat as Mr. Scott stood.

"No! I want to!" Hettie harshly whispered for Minevera's ears only, but it reached all of our ears, much to my embarrassment.

The two sisters glared at each other, and I frowned, trying to find the fastest solution to end all of it.

Before I reached a conclusion, Mr. Scott beat me to it. "I was actually hoping Miss Ainsworth would do me the favor." Mr. Scott glanced at me, and our gazes connected, mine full of astonishment, his full of something I couldn't place. Curiosity? Pity? Whatever it was, he held out his arm for me to take.

Minevera and Hettie now turned their glaring to me, and I wanted to decline, tell Mr. Scott it was fine, but his set face and contenance gave me the feel that that wasn't an option.

"Alright." I said in defeat, and I took the extended arm as we walked our way through the house, down the stairs, and finally, to the doorway. We said nothing in our small walk together, not leaving an uncomfortable silence, but a silence of content, that all that could be said was said, and that the visit was through.

Admittedly on my part, the silence was much more noticable, as I tried hard not to feel the need to look up into the face of the stone-faced man, and try and figure out just what his thoughts were.

"Thank you Miss Ainsworth. It has been a pleasure, and I hope to see you again, very soon."

I knew it was my turn to say 'the pleasure had all been mine', or something to that affect, but settled instead for, "Indeed it has."

He took my hand, and kissed it gently, lingering for a second or two longer than needed.

And then he was gone, leaving me a bit stunned and confused, and having two angry sisters to deal with. I watched his tall form walk away, wonder what his intentions, if he had any, could be.

Chapter Eight - Elliot - Word Games

I looked down at the startled face before me and resisted the sudden urge to look startled myself. Charles and I were on our way to meet the owner of the estate I was to purchase and had just been discussing some of the particulars of what might sway him in our favor as well as my latest idea of the hotel. I certainly hoped she hadn't been eavesdropping again.
"Oh," I smiled and stepped back politely, "Pardon me, Ms. Ainsworth."

"Oh no," she said, a little flustered, "It was my fault."

We stood there awkwardly for a moment, neither of us knowing where to go next. I expected Charles to make the first move but rather, he seemed oblivious to it all.
"I nearly forgot! There's something my wife wanted me to pick up in that shop across the way," he muttered to me, "I'll be back."

I incredulously turned my head and watched him cross the street. My first instinct was to call out to him and remind him of our actual errand but that would only draw unwanted attention. It seemed he'd grown dependent on my taking over of the social half of our plan.

That, of course, left just us two. I shifted my gaze from him to my shoes and back up to Ms. Ainsworth. She couldn't seem to make eye contact either, suddenly focused on the steady foot traffic in the streets.

 Finally, I cleared my throat and gave the young lady another friendly smile, "You look lovely this morning, Ms. Ainsworth."

"Oh," the comment only seemed to fluster her more, "Thank you, sir."

I decided then and there that this was a grand opportunity. Here she was--the only potential obstacle in the way of my goal--caught off guard. Clearly the small amount of suspicion she might've had could be easily swept away with a wave a open friendliness.

So, seeing that the compliment hadn't quite done the trick, I turned to teasing instead and frowned in mock offense, "Now Ms. Ainsworth, don't tell me you forgot my name again. Not after the sisters you have."

She gave me a fleeting smile but still looked as if she'd rather bolt down the street in the opposite direction.

"I'm sorry to have interrupted you," I tried again, "Might I accompany you to your next destination as way of apology? I have yet to wait for my cousin's return."

"Oh," she flashed another quick smile, fiddled with her dress, and then looked up again, "I--"

"I can do that, thank you," a deeper voice said. I looked up to see a young man with copper hair and blue eyes. He was shorter than me and generally less imposing but the hint of sternness in his voice was enough to catch me off guard.
"Hodges," Ms. Ainsworth greeted, obviously relieved, "Where's Ms. Murray?"
"She needed to be home to help her mother," he said curtly, hardly taking his gaze from me, "I don't believe I've had the pleasure of meeting you, sir."
Despite my annoyance at the interuption, I grinned and tipped my hat, "Mr. Samuelson. I've only just moved into town. Pleased to make your acquaintence."

I extended a hand which he warily shook.
"What's your business in town?"
The man was obviously a good friend of this young lady; I felt as if I was being interrogated by a civil officer. Yet, as usual, I only put on a new mask--from a polite gentleman to a confident businessman, "I'm looking into purchasing the Granville estate."
His eyes slightly widened and I hid a smile. Whether I really had the resources to back it up or not, the phrase was indulgently satisfying to say. And the reaction I recieved always topped it off perfectly.

"What draws your ambitions?"
I pursed my lips and leaned on my decorative cane in thought for a moment before answering, "The people mainly. I thought it would be a shame for the home of such an accomplished man to go to waste just because of his lack of heir. Of course," I added, "If it doesn't work out there are several others  of similar status throughout London I have my eye on. But if I can be of service, I'd rather."

Suddenly this Mr. Hodges seemed to realize why he'd come over in the first place and changed the direction of the conversation, "I wish you luck in such an endevour, Mr. Samuelson. I take it you've already been introduced to Ms. Ainsworth?"

"Of course," I met her eyes with a cheerful smile, trying my best to extinguish any last skepticism that might be in them, "My circle of aquaintences wouldn't be fullfilled if I hadn't."

Finally Ms. Ainwsworth herself spoke up, "Thank you, Mr. Samuelson. It was nice visiting with you but I'm afraid I need to finish some errands."

"G'day," I tipped my hat, realizing I'd likely lost this battle. She nodded her head in return and then walked past me. She stopped only to look over her shoulder at Mr. Hodges to follow.

"I'll catch up," he assured her.

With an uneasy shrug, she turned and scurried off. She'd barely gone out of earshot before his attentions locked on me.

"I wasn't aware the Samuelsons had another son."

Charles and I had already decided on this cover-story, "I've spent most of my childhood in education. I'm afraid my parents don't mention me much in court. That's why I've decided to come out here: to make a name for myself."

He nodded, somewhat satisfied, "And Mr. Lettington is a cousin?"

"Yes. A second-cousin to be exact," I promptly replied. Then, noticing that he was trying to act casual, I decided to play along with his charade in order to change the subject from my pretend past, "But enough about myself, Mr. Hodges. You seem a man of great integrity. What is your occupation?"

"I...I'm becoming a clergyman."

"Ah," I nodded approvingly, "The world needs more men like you. I have all confidence of your abilities in the field."

"Thank you, Mr. Samuelson."

Just then, Charles came rushing back out, a few parcels under his arm and a pair of laced gloves in his mouth as he fiddled with his wallet.
"Mm!" he exclaimed, gloves still in his mouth. He quickly took them out and extended a hand, "Mr. Hodges, how are you?"

"I'm fine, thank you," he smiled politely, "But I'm afraid I must be off."

"Oh. G'day to you then," Charles grinned.
"Yes," I said, "Good luck with your future, Mr. Hodges."

As soon as he was gone I blew out my breath and tugged at my jacket collar. I wasn't sure whether I had convinced either of them but no matter the circumstance, the man was definetly someone I didn't want to run into--especially when around Ms. Ainsworth.

Chapter Seven - Nora - Not An Average Walk in the Park

"So how is the soon-to-be clergyman?" I asked, as I moved towards our favorite berch tree, the one place that had always been our designated meeting place. We picked it, not only because of the convinence of it being exactly between our two properties, but because the view after climbing it was remarkable- unlike anything I'd ever experienced.

"Fairing well, but not as well as the fair Miss Bertram, if I do say so myself." Hodges grinned from his post leaning against the tree, as he tipped his hat in my direction.

"Such a flirt, as usual. That won't do at all in your profession, Mr. Hodges." I grinned back, and Hodges pulled away from the tree, coming to meet me.

"Would a walk into town suit you? I have a few matters of business I have to deal with." Hodges pulled out a letter and tapped the front, matter of factly.

"I think it would suit me fine indeed." Hodges moved to me and the both of us began to walk the pathway into town, taking it slow and easy and enjoying the time we had together.

"I'm to be ordained a month from tomorrow." Hodges reminded me, a hint of anxiousness in his voice.

"Oh? We'll all be blessed to be hearing sermons you in no time then." I grinned at him, and he gave a curt smile back.

"Perhaps, but still, this is no profession that will be giving me anything to be impressible about. Comfortable, yes. Someone to catch the eye of a Miss Muirray, definately not." Hodges sighed. "I'm to get an income of 700 pounds a year, and mind you, that's generous coming from this parson."

"Well perhaps, if you would just talk to Abigale, she'd be impressed all the same. Any girl would be lucky to have you pick them as a wife." I argued, and Hodges shook his head.

"If only Mr. Murray felt the same." We were well into town now, and just the girl we both had been speaking of stood across the street, making her way to what I assumed was the clothing shop. Hodges hadn't noticed, his eyes strictly straight ahead of him, his mind lost in his own world.

"Here's your chance Hodges. Take it or leave it." I pointed her out, and Hodges' cheeks turned a ruddy shade of red.

"I couldn't. I shouldn't-" He looked at her and looked away shyly.

"But you will." I nodded, and he stared at me in wide eyed confusion. "Abigale?" I shouted throwing a friendly wave into the air.

Abigale swiftly jerked her head in our direction and an instant smile was pressed upon her face. "Nora?"

"Oh what have you done!" Hodges cringed and turned away, trying to hide himself behind me but I continued to smile.

"Be sure to thank me for this later." I whispered to him as I said aloud to Abigale, who was steadily making her way towards us; "How nice a concidence to meet you here."

"Yes, quite." She paused a second, realizing I wasn't alone. "Mr. Hodges, I didn't see you there." She gave a short curtsy, and Hodges bowed, not making eye contact.

"Nice to see you Miss Murray."

"You also." I saw a faint hint of a blush on Abigale's face, and it made me grin.

"What brings you to town?" I asked, already scheming.

"Oh, I needed a new bonnet. This one is almost completely worn. And I would have sent a servant, but it was such a lovely day, that I thought it would be pleasant to spend it walking through town." Abigale touched the bonnet she wore almost self-concious of it. She gave a half-hearted smile, clearly uncomfortable with revealling so much to us. "Father says I could have all the bonnets I want, but I feel one is more than enough."

"What a lovely concidence! Hodges was on his way to the tailor's too." I nodded, knowing Hodges wouldn't be speaking up anytime soon.

"I was?" Hodges frowned, throwing a look to me.

"Yes, you were. You had business there, remember?" I nodded, hoping he would catch on. He couldn't be so crazy as to turn down an oppurtunity to spend some time with the girl who had his heart.

He seemed to be thinking a moment before he replied. "Why yes, I did."

"Why don't you accompany Miss Murray? I think I am well enough off to fend for myself for a couple of minutes." I nodded, and Abigale's eyes grew wide.

"I think that's a wonderful idea. That is of course, you want to, Mr. Hodges." Abigale's eyes finally met Hodges, who seemed dumbstruck.

"He thinks it's a lovely idea." I pushed Hodges closer. "Take your time, I'll be fine without you."

"Good day, Nora." Abigale curtised towards me and I did the same, and Hodges nodded a goodbye to me, and the two were off down the street, just like that.

I smiled to myself as I walked along, proud of the scheme that had all worked out. The two deserved each other, really, if only for a short while.

"You sure you want to do this? I mean, the spare bedroom is always opened for you." I looked up from my musings and realized I wasn't alone on the street anymore.

There, stood the two men from the ball, Mr. Lettington and Mr. Samuelson. My mind flipped upside down at the deja vu. I shook my head and backed away. No. I wasn't going to eavesdrop again. I couldn't afford it, nor had no interest in being any more mixed up in whatever scheme was going on between them. Mr. Lettington was a respectable man, I knew from his associations with my father, and I would like to keep my mind thinking that way, even if it weren't true.

Mr. Samuelson, on the otherhand, I had no loyalty for nor any sources to his trustworthiness, and I would only trust him as far as I could throw him. No, it was better to steer clear from the likes of him.

I spun around fast enough that my skirts whirrled around me. I floundered around a few seconds, unsure where to go. I could head back to the clothing shop, where Hodges would definately know something was wrong, and I didn't want to worry him. But every moment spent on the open street was sure to give me away to the two gentlemen conducting business.

I decided just to slip into another shop, and feign busyness for a few seconds.

"Miss Ainsworth?" I stopped at my name, for a few seconds, afraid that Mr. Samuelson and Mr. Lettington had spotted me. I turned my head ever so slightly, trying hard not to show my fear.

To my surprise, it wasn't either of the gentleman, but Mr. Nathaniel Scott, someone I thought I'd never see again.

"Mr. Scott? Back in town so soon?" He was a very handsome gentleman, his hair black as the night and slicked back underneath his hat. His eyes, were a very stunning blue, and I looked away under his intense gaze.

"Well, I got your letter, and that of your sister,  begging me to visit again. And I hoped to come here again, maybe not this soon, but some troubling news about the business I was here with, with your father has reached me and I must sort it out." He peered at me more closely, and I suddenly felt as if I were ten again, and my clothes seemed inadequate and old, and I cursed myself for not giving my face a better scrubbing this morning. This man just had that affect on you. Just being in his presence made me feel less of myself, and inferior. "You appear in good health Miss Ainsworth, and look quite well."

"Thank you." I somehow managed, pulling my shawl closer around me. I lifted my chin, hoping to feel more of an equal to him. "I'm sorry to hear you have trouble with your business. No doubt father will be more than overjoyed to hear you're in town. He took quite a liking to you, I suppose."

"Yes. I'll be soon by to visit your estate. In the meantime, make sure to tell your sisters that I've asked after them." Mr. Scott turned to go, and I secretly felt relief that I was to be dismissed so soon. Not that I didn't enjoy his company, but that I wouldn't have to worry about what I was to say so as not to make myself look stupid. "Miss Ainsworth." He bowed, and I curtsied.

I turned away from him and hurried my walk a bit, hoping to escape to safety, and consequently, smacked right into someone else. A very tall someone else, who smirked at me as I tried to stumble out an apology. I actually gasped as I recognized the smoldering face. A one Mr. Samuelson, who looked all to pleased with himself.

Now I wished I had never let Hodges out of my sight.