“So,” Earl began as they walked down the street together, “how was your vacation?”

“It was good,” Ravina replied cautiously, unsure why he was asking.

“That’s good…” He hesitated for a moment. “Hey, there’s a new restaurant opening up. Thought maybe we could try it together.”

“Oh? Who else is going?” she asked.

“Huh? Oh no, I meant just the two of us,” he quickly clarified, fumbling for words. “You know, maybe talk shop?”

Ah, so that’s what this was about. Ravina smiled inwardly. He wanted something. “I see. Well, I’m fine with that.” She agreed, her curiosity piqued. She recalled their conversation in the carriage and wondered again why Earl seemed to harbor such disdain for the nobility, thinking this might be a good opportunity to ask.

With that, Earl got his date and Ravina was none the wiser.

Later, back at the manor, the caretaker approached her with news. “My lady, a Rupert Maklerin has come to see you.”

A small smile tugged at her lips at the mention of his name. “Excellent,” she said. “Well then, I should greet him. How do I look?”

“Just fine, my lady. The tailor did a wonderful job on your robes.”

Ravina’s eyes widened, suddenly reminded of what she was wearing.

“Oh no,” her face paled. “M-make sure he’s given some refreshments and tell him I’ll see him soon,” Ravina quickly instructed, her heart picking up pace as she retreated into the manor. Once inside, she hurriedly sought out Mona, practically dragging the maid into her room.

“Mona, hurry, a guest arrived and we cant have him wait to long.” Ravina exclaimed, her composure faltering as she glanced into the mirror. There was no way she could meet him in this drey garb. Her fingers twisted anxiously in her lap.

Mona frowned, “A guest? My lady you can simply send him away, it's proper manners to send out a letter beforehand.”

“N-no, hes fine, I just need to be ready.”

“But- ah, I see.” Mona Smiled. Clapping her hands with excitement. “It seems we get to meet the man you have been meeting for over two months now? Don’t worry, we’ll have you looking so stunning that he’ll forget why he came!”

You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

Ravina shot her a sideways glance. “Its not like it was a secret, a-and this isn’t about impressing him... exactly.”

Mona was already rifling through dresses, tossing aside options without hesitation. “Not a secret she says, yet she evaded every question when asked and instead turned red. Ah just like that!”

Ravina retreated into herself. “J-just get me ready, and quickly!”

Pulling out a gown and holding it up with satisfaction, Mona smiled. “Oh, we’ll get you ready in time and the gentleman would be glad he waited.” She turned to Ravina, an evil gleam in her eye…

About an hour later, Ravina was ready to meet her welcome, yet uninvited, guest. Mona knocked gently on the door before opening it, her voice soft but confident. “My Lady, Miss Ravenshield has arrived.”

Taking a deep breath, Ravina stepped past Mona and entered the room, trying to suppress the nervous flutter in her chest. The room was expansive, designed for formal meetings and entertaining guests, taking up nearly half the manor. The grandeur of the space was undeniable, with three of its walls lined with large windows that bathed the room in natural light, offering views of the meticulously maintained garden, the estate’s grand gate, and a back wall. Okay so that last one just let light in.

Ravina's footsteps echoed softly against the polished floors as she moved further into the room. There, seated by the cozy fireplace, was Rupert Maklerin himself. He looked as gorgeous as ever, his fine green coat perfectly tailored to his lean form, his striking smile enough to catch anyone’s attention. In his hands, he held a delicate white teacup, the picture of effortless charm and elegance.

As soon as Ravina entered, Rupert put the cup down gently and rose from his seat, bowing with an easy grace, all while maintaining steady eye contact with her. “Good afternoon, my lady,” he said, his voice warm and smooth. “I apologize for dropping by unannounced, but I was hoping to get a moment of your time.”

“Ah, don’t worry about it,” Ravina replied, her smile mirroring his. “Please, sit, enjoy yourself. You are most welcome here.” As she spoke, she sank into the comfortable brown leather chair next to his, settling into the cozy atmosphere. “So, to what do I owe the pleasure of your company?”

Rupert leaned forward slightly, his charming smile never faltering. “Ah yes, my lady. I have a small stake in a restaurant that’s opening soon. As you know, I’ve been trying to play the market to prove my worth to my father, and now I find myself in need of a date for the grand opening.”

“Oh, I see.” Ravina nodded her head. “I’m sure it will be lovely. I’ll make sure to clear my schedule for it.”

“Outstanding. I’ll leave the details with your maid then?” Rupert stood, and Ravina felt a twinge of sadness at the thought of him leaving so soon.

“Please do,” she said, standing up as well. “But why don’t you stay a little longer and have some tea?”

Rupert smiled solemnly. “I’m sorry, my lady, but I have other appointments I must attend to today. Yours was simply the one I prioritized.” He stepped closer, gently lifting her hand and pressing a soft kiss to the back of it, holding her hand just a moment longer than necessary. “I look forward to our date.” He added.

With that, he turned and left, leaving Ravina with her heart fluttering. His words confirmed that it was in fact a date and this news made the young girl blush quite happily. It was rather unfortunate that she had yet to realize she now had two dates planned at the same restaurant at the same time.