With the Season quickly approaching, all of England aristocracy prepared for the annual sojourn to town. Hastings Manor was no different this evening as the entire family gathered one final time before decamping to their London residence. The dining room seemed to brim with chaotic energy this evening as peals of laughter echoed amidst the clinking of utensils .

While Addy had inherited her mother's pale blonde hair, all of her brothers had taken after their father and possessed deep golden locks. Her eldest 3 brothers had been dubbed The Hastings Lions by the ton for their stature and unmistakable hair color. The youngest Hastings, twins George and William, had been a surprise, born 14 years after their sister. Both sported the same hair as the eldest brothers and showed the beginnings of their future height, promising to join the ranks of Lion one day. As she sat amongst her family, it reminded her how she had always felt a bit colorless in comparison.

At the head of the table, Lord Edward made no attempt to maintain an air of decorum, freely laughing and jesting with his brood. Beside him, Lady Florence pursed her lips disapprovingly at the raucous avalanche of jokes and sibling needling ricocheting across the room.

"Willy, Georgie - mind your manners! You're like uncivilized heathens tonight," the dour aunt chided, her eyes narrowed at the tousled and giggling 7-year-olds.

Willy responded by sticking out his tongue before his older brother Ned cuffed him upside the head. "Have some respect for your elders, you little terror."

"Aye, you were just as ill-behaved at their age though, my dear brother," Michael laughed, spearing a forkful of beef. His hazelnut eyes twinkled with mirth. "If I recall, you once filled Father's hunting boots with tur—"

"That'll be quite enough of that!" Ned barked gruffly, his ears burning crimson as the table exploded into fresh howls. "And if I recall correctly, that escapade was entirely of your design." Michael simply smiled over the rim of his glass as answer.

"Was it not also Michael's plot to liberate a few of Father's cigars?" Reggie put a finger to his chin as if in thought. Although only a neighbor, the Wycliffs had been friends of the Hastings for generations. Being the youngest of his own prim and proper family, Reginald had found comfort in the chaos of the Hastings home. For many years his auburn curls could be spotted mixed in with a collection of honey-colored adolescents, partaking in their misadventures. After a lifetime of romping with the pack, he was equally expected at a family gathering.

Thomas 's face contorted at the memory. "We were sick for two full days. I don't think I've been so violently ill, before or since."

Michael rolled his eyes in dismissal as he cut a bite of fish. "No one instructed you to try smoking the entire thing in one breath." Suddenly grinning, he pointed his knife across from himself. "Do you recall when Tommy bested Sergeant Wilkins after he came sniffing around the kitchen staff?"

Thomas shrugged, a ghost of a smirk playing across his lips. "The old dog had it coming, and I stood up for our staff's honor as any good man should."

Addy rolled her eyes remembering the event. "Oh, I'm certain. And I'm also quite certain your wounded pride at being called 'whelp' had nothing to do with that asinine brawl."

Lord Edward shook his head with a bemuse smile. All these years later, he was still in disbelief his 17-year-old son bested a grown man and sergeant in a round of fisticuffs.

"That pales in comparison to your brush with the fine arts," Reggie taunted a now-scowling Michael.

"Who could forget your 'actor phase', you git?" Thomas reached across to ruffle Michael's hair with a snicker. "Prancing about the grounds in a decimated bed-sheet, singing and-"

"Music is an art!" Michael protested with a laugh. "Though I suppose things did get a bit carried away when the Wakefield Troupe came through..."

"Best damned woodland nymph I ever saw," Ned offered with a smirk and raised glass.

"Oh God, do you remember when Ned fell into the lake trying to catch Mary Weston's eye?" Thomas guffawed, slapping the table as Ned's face flushed crimson.

Michael chimed in, eyes twinkling. "If memory serves, it was more of an undignified belly flop from the pier. He emerged looking like a drowned rat, breeches clinging to his—"

"That's quite enough!" Ned barked, cheeks burning as the table dissolved into laughter.

Reggie sat next to Addy holding his ribs, wheezing between breaths. "I'd forgotten that tale! Oh Ned, what a busy rumor mill you churned that summer…"

From across the table, Addy grinned at the men. "Leave Ned be. He's always been a bit of a stuffed doublet."

"Oh, like you were a perfect angel," Thomas snorted derisively between gulps of wine. "As I remember, it was you who loosed a pig into the drawing room after father refused to allow you to wear trousers!"

Addy threw her brother an impish shrug. "I had to find some way to enliven our dreadfully dull existence out here in the country. With all of you gone to school, I swear there were days time simply stood still."

"I'm sure you lot will have plenty to keep you occupied once we return to London," Lord Edward spoke with a pointed look to his only daughter.

The table grew momentarily silent as all eyes turned toward Addy. Holding her napkin under the table, she fidgeted under the sudden scrutiny. This would be her fourth Season, and everyone in the ton would be watching this year. She would no longer be a debutant at the end of this season, having progressed either to married woman or on-the-shelf spinster.

An errant pea bouncing off her forehead broke the tension as Georgie and Willy erupted into uncontrollable laughter again.

"Well aimed, boys!" Michael clapped the closest twin on the back.

"Honestly, you lot are hopeless!" Lady Florence's shrill tone cut through the din. "And Edward - must you always indulge their foolish antics? It's no wonder Adelyn remains unmarried!" Scowling, she glared at her niece up and down disapprovingly. "Although with your disastrous prospects at finding a husband this late, perhaps tomfoolery is all you have left to explore."

Addy felt her cheeks flush hotly, all her mirth evaporating under her aunt's judgment. But before a retort could escape her, an unexpected ally rebutted. "Come now, Lady Thorn."

All eyes turned in surprise toward Reggie. His warm eyes had narrowed in uncharacteristic flintiness as he leveled the older lady with a reproachful look.

"Miss Addy is a jewel. If some boorish lordling cannot recognize her singular sparkle, then he is simply too much a fool to deserve even a passing glance."

For a beat, no one dared disrupt the tense silence. Addy felt her heart flutter unexpectedly at Reggie's impassioned compliment, even as a flush crept up her neck. Her own adult brothers avoided contradicting Aunt Florence, and she had certainly never expected a non-family member to confront the old crone.

It was Lord Edward who finally harrumphed and raised his glass. "Well said, young master Wycliffe. We Hastings have always celebrated vibrancy and verve over the dreary doldrums of societal fawning." His look turning stern, he directed his comment towards his sister. "Addy's prospects are a trifling matter when compared to her many accomplishments." Aunt Florence hmphed and averted her eyes, temporarily silenced.

"Indeed!" Thomas boomed. "Those musty codgers have no sense for a true diamond!"

Rowdy toasting and raucous "here here!"s chorused around the table.

As laughter echoed and the festivities resumed around her, Addy found herself exchanging a warm smile with Reggie. Despite her aunt's sourpussed disapproval and the marital battleground awaiting in the capital, she was bolstered by the knowledge that she would at least be entering the fray with a comrade.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Mere days from the Hastings family's departure for London, Addy found herself descending the grand staircase one sunny morning to find a guest. She had heard murmurs of Lord Wallace Wellingham's visit, but had assumed it was a mere courtesy call. The sight of him sitting in the family salon with her father, however, filled her with confusion. This was a space reserved for family and close friends, and as such was not commonly where Lord Edward would entertain a business acquaintance.

The family salon had been meticulously decorated by Lady Sarah Hastings, and had been kept in tact since her death. The oil painting on the wall, a calming and picturesque rendition of Hastings Manor, had been commissioned by Lady Sarah and held a place of honor in the room. The warm tones of the settees and striped arm chairs paired with the relaxing creamy color of the walls and the lush Persian rug underfoot created a special oasis for the family.

The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

Although he was not where she would have expected, Lord Wellingham was none the less an esteemed member of the ton and deserved civility. He had always been indulgent with herself and her brothers, often stopping by to experience the insanity of her home with a patient word or gesture. His genial disposition more than compensated for his slightly outdated fashion and bristling beard. She'd always had the impression of him as a doting grandfather figure. If anyone deserved a warm welcome, it was he.

Adelyn approached the elderly man to receive him, stitching a polite smile in place. "Good morning, My Lord." She dipped into a shallow curtsey.

Lord Wellingham's eyes lit up as she joined them. "Ah, Miss Hastings! How delightful to see you this morning."

"Lord Wellingham, it's a pleasure to have you visit," she said with a practiced and pleasant tone.

"Good morning, darling," Lord Edward touched her hand briefly in a small show of affection as she kissed his cheek. "Lord Wellingham and I were just discussing his thoroughbreds. I believe you two have much in common, Addy. Wallace here is an accomplished horse breeder, much like yourself."

Addy smiled politely. "Yes, I recall. We've discussed your horseflesh before, I recall. Although, I would not classify myself as accomplished. Two foals in three years hardly constitutes as mastery," she laughed lightly.

Lord Wallace chuckled, his eyes twinkling. "Indeed, my dear. Seeing as we share such interest, perhaps we could arrange a visit to my stables sometime? I may be able to offer you some assistance or expertise with your own horses."

Addy hesitated, glancing at her father. Lord Edward nodded encouragingly, and she found herself agreeing. "That would be lovely, Lord Wellingham."

"We shall arrange something at a later time, then," Lord Wellingham settled his weight back into his armchair and turned his attention back to her father.

As the conversation continued, Addy couldn't help but feel uneasy. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but she sensed an unspoken weight to his offer.

The sun moved across the sky as Lord Wellingham and Lord Hastings touched on many topics. Addy offered a thought here and there, and while the men did not seem displeased at her input, neither did they seek her opinion. After more than an hour had passed, Adelyn considered herself having completed her duty as hostess and moved to excuse herself.

"Addy, won't you please ring for some tea?" Her father tilted his head towards the chair she had vacated, indicating his desire for her to stay. Feeling the unease forming a ball in the center of her chest, she summoned for tea and resumed her seat.

Adelyn displayed her poise pouring tea and dispersing pastries. Edward subtly moved a little further away from Wellingham and casually laid a napkin across one knee as a few crumbs launched his direction each time Wellingham spoke. He seemed to have a small problem with speaking and eating simultaneously. Addy would have found this mildly amusing if not for the sensation of more to come.

Her suspicions were confirmed when, over tea, Lord Wellingham suddenly cleared his throat and looked directly at her. "Miss Hastings, I must confess that I have been admiring you from afar for some time now. You are a woman of great intelligence and beauty, and you have captured my admiration completely."

Addy's heart sank as she realized the true nature of his visit. It required every shred of self-control to keep her legs still rather than flee to the forest. Her panicked mind whirled, unable to sort her thoughts. Surely her father would not agree to this, her marrying a man of Lord Wellingham's age. She looked to Edward for help, and felt the air leave the room.

Her father held her gaze with his steady one, no waver in his resolve. He knew. He knew, and he approved. Tearing her eyes from her father she refocused on the challenge at hand.

Lord Wellingham reached out to hold her hand carefully, clearly understanding this would be no simple matter. "My dear, I must confess my intentions plainly. At my age, one knows one's mind and heart's desires clearly. I wish to take your hand in marriage."

Addy tried to maintain her composure, but her voice shook as she replied. "Lord Wellingham, I appreciate your kind words, surely you understand that we..." she trailed off, afraid to offend.

Lord Wellingham chuckled softly. "Yes, yes, I am aware of our significant difference in years. But consider my suit objectively. I am a wealthy man with extensive lands and social standing. I could provide you with every comfort and indulgence, you would want for nothing." Addy tugged lightly at her hand, hoping to free it but failing. "We also share a few hobbies, yes? Horses surely, but I believe you'd told me you've ready quite a number of adventure novels, correct? I not only have a sizable library, but many of my own stories from my youth. We could find great contentment together, I believe, despite my aging."

Addy nodded, her mind racing as she tried to think of a way to extricate herself from the situation. She knew that her father would be thrilled at the prospect of her married and settled, but she couldn't bear the thought of marrying a man she didn't love. Especially if that man fell asleep randomly through the day and forgot he'd left him spectacles atop his head.

Deciding manners could be excused in this moment, she forcefully pulled her hand from Wellingham's and stood to leave.

"I must apologize, my Lord, but I won't be able to -"

"Adelyn," her father cut her short, standing to face her. Taking her hands softly he said, "I've already accepted on your behalf."

Addy's heart stopped entirely, her mouth open in a most unladylike manner. "Papa, please...you cannot be serious? To accept such a proposal without my consent?" Was she merely an object to be given away?

"I know this seems an immense shock, Adelyn. But you must see the practicality and security in Lord Wellingham's proposal."

Her eyes could not focus on her father's face. Her ears sounded as if he were a mile away rather than a hand's-breadth. "No, Papa. He is older than you are, yet you would have us wed? Have I no say in my own marriage? My own life? This is absurd, you cannot expect me to agree to this." She pulled away from her father, putting distance to collect herself.

"Addy," he began softly, "there is nothing to agree to. It has been decided. Lord Wellingham can grant you comfort, position, everything a husband should provide."

"There is more to a marriage than a title or lands!" she exclaimed.

"Yes," Edward agreed, "there is. And I know, without hesitation, that you will be far happier to be a mother than to resign yourself to a childless and lonely life. I cannot allow you to make yourself so unhappy."

"That should be my decision!" she fairly roared, uncaring if her guest should take exception.

"I would agree with you, if this were not your fourth season. You may not forgive me, but I will make this decision for you."

"Well then!" Lord Wellingham clapped his hands together. "Do not be distressed, my dear. I vow to be a most indulgent, devoted husband. With time, I believe a sincere spousal affection can bloom between us."

Adelyn stood by the window of the family salon, hardly believing the situation she found herself. Her mother's carefully selected wallpaper, her hand-stitched pillows, the delicate lace adorning the tables, all seemed a terrible joke. This room should have been a safe haven, had always been one, but was now constricting to the point of suffocation.

"Am I really to believe I have no choice in this? Have you spoken with Ned?" Her voice could barely be hear, hardly a whisper.

"While I trust your brother's judgement in most things, I don't expect objectivity from him on this matter. Your brothers do not yet know, but that will not change my decision." He stood resolute. She could not doubt his determination in this.

Adelyn silently stared between the two men, anger and desperation raging inside her. A loud sound, almost like crashing waves, filled her ears from the inside. She felt as if she could burst from her skin from the emotions fighting to be free.

Lord Wellingham cleared his throat. "Ahem, well now, I understand this has all been rather overwhelming for you, my dear. A transition of such magnitude can scarcely be fully comprehended in a mere moment." He took two cautious steps towards her and extended his hand. "Perhaps a compromise to ease your worries? We are neither of us lacking in years, after all. Time remains on our side for now."

Addy looked at his offered hand without taking it. With no small amount of distrust, she met his gaze. "I am sorry, sir, but I cannot think of a single compromise that could correct this injustice."

He smiled patronizingly at her, as if she were a disgruntled child. "I propose an extended courtship period before our engagement is announced. Consider it...a final season to satisfy your fancies, hm?"

Before Addy could fully consider his suggestion, her father broke in. "An extended courtship? Whatever for? I've already accepted your pro-"

Lord Wellingham held up a hand to stay his argument. "Please, my good man. Indulge an old romantic's whimsy for once. What harm could there be in affording your daughter one last opportunity to indulge in youthful folly?"

Edward sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I suppose one last season to fully sate your curiosity would be acceptable."

Wellingham beamed approvingly "Excellent, excellent. Then we shall consider this season yours to fully savor, Miss Adelyn. Provided no other...ahem...compelling proposals materialize, we shall announce our engagement at the closing ball."

Her mind whirred, considering too many things all at once. "Beg pardon, but could you explain the terms?"

His sharp eyes lit with appreciation for her intellect. He fully understood what she was asking. "We will await your completion of this season, and convene at that time. If you have not found a match by this time, you will agree to my suit. You have my vow as a gentleman to allow you that final indulgence, at least. Does this arrangement not demonstrate my willingness to prioritize your comforts, my dear?"

Addy felt as though she had reached the surface of a large pool, able to take in breathe again. She looked to Wellingham, seeing naught but encouragement. Without sparing her father a glance, she agreed to his terms. "You are most generous with your conditions, my lord," she allowed softly. "I...shall endeavor to remain receptive of your courtship overtures."

"Splendid, splendid. Then I eagerly await your favored impressions of an old man's affections, to be judged anew each week!

"In this instance, let us begin immediately," he said reaching into a coat pocket. "I did not arrive empty-handed to a proposal. I suppose these will not be an engagement gift, then, eh?" The velvet box was the size of a plate, an intimidating size for the recipient.

Addy considered refusing out of turn, but decided to accept the box. She'd agreed to accept his suit, which would naturally include gifts. Addy's eyes widened as she opened it. Nestled on a crimson lining was a breathtaking ruby parure - a necklace, bracelet, and regal yet tasteful earrings, all created with the deep crimson gemstones.

"My lord...I cannot possibly..." she stammered, already envisioning the parure's worth. It would be unfair to receive such a gift from a man she had no intention to wed.

Wellingham tsked dismissively. "Nonsense, I insist you accept the set. An indulgent man's simple appreciation for distinguished beauty." Winking to her as if they shared an alliance, he patted her hand before gathering his cane and making to depart. Before leaving, he briefly touched Adelyn's fingers to his lips in respect. "Please accept these pieces with my abiding affection and reassurance that they are yours, regardless of what destiny has planned once this season has concluded."

Blushing, Addy curtseyed deeply to him. "You are most kind and generous, Lord Wellingham. I shall cherish them always."

Her father exited the salon with Wellingham to see him off, leaving with one last look over his shoulder. If Addy had been able to look at him as well, she would have seen the tumultuous storm of emotions flashing in his eyes.

Adelyn stood rooted for several minutes. She knew she could only honor her agreement with Wellingham. He'd been so kind over the years to herself and her brothers, she could do no less.

With that said, however, she felt her resolve harden. There would be an engagement at the end of this season, why not one of her choosing?