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Agnes noticed a flower in his other hand then. And when he turned back to her, he surprised her by adding it to her flower crown with a tender smile. “You danced beautifully,” he commended as well, his voice carrying both pride and affection.

“The children were good teachers,” she responded with a sheepish little chuckle, touching the petals of the flower he had just placed in her hair.

“And you, my dear, were a fast learner,” Theodore replied, his gaze softening as he then kissed her own bare knuckles with a gentle reverence that made her heart flutter.

“Oh, how lovely,” a voice sighed nearby. It was Lady Leighton. Agnes had momentarily forgotten about her presence right then, caught up in her intimate exchange with Theodore. She felt her cheeks warm, and when she glanced at her husband, his face had some color, too.

The woman’s eyes held such curiosity in them, they practically shone with it. Lady Leighton's interest in Agnes and Theodorewas palpable, her gaze flickering between them with an intensity that spoke of more than mere social pleasantries.

“How about a cup of tea at my house tomorrow afternoon?” she suddenly suggested, her voice smooth and inviting. “I should like to know the Marchioness and Marquess of Gillingham a little better,” she added, offering them a warm smile that seemed to draw them into her world.

Theodore and Agnes exchanged a quick, consenting glance, recognizing the opportunity to strengthen ties within their community and perhaps, to learn more about their own positions through the insights of an established member of the local gentry.

“We would be delighted,” Agnes responded graciously, her tone reflecting both her eagerness and appreciation for the invitation.

All good things must come to an end. Alas, the festival was one of them. As the day's festivities began to wind down, the laughter and music gradually fading into the evening air, Theodore and Agnes took their leave, their hands entwined.

Theodore was standing in front of his study window that overlooked his unremarkable garden when a soft knock on the door momentarily lifted his thoughts from what they had been lingering on. Agnes.

“Enter,” he called, his voice steadier than he felt.

The door opened and Mr. Ingram, his other solicitor, stepped in. Theodore’s brow furrowed slightly; he had expected to see Thompson.

“Mr. Ingram, I specifically summoned Thompson. Why are you here instead?” Theodore’s tone was more of curiosity than irritation.

Ingram approached the desk with a respectful nod. “My Lord, Mr. Thompson has arranged a meeting with two merchants looking to embark on a trading journey to India and are in need of ships for lease. He thought it best to handle it personally, given the potential opportunity it could present for your company.”

Theodore’s heart lifted slightly at the news. “And the outcome?” he asked, a spark of hope flickering in his chest.

“I do not know yet, My Lord. The meeting was yet to take place when I departed London,” Ingram replied. “It is scheduled for tomorrow.”

Theodore sat in his chair, allowing himself a moment of silent appreciation for Thompson's efforts. Ingram, clearing his throat softly, extended a missive him. “There is also this from one of the late Marquess’ creditors.”

Theodore took the letter with a slight hesitation, unfolding it to read the cramped, impatient handwriting:

Lord Gillingham,

I acknowledge receipt of your recent payment towards the outstanding debts of your late father. I must urge you to settle the remainder posthaste. My patience, though considerable, has limits, and I would be loath to take further action to recover what is duly owed.

Regards,

Mr. S. Hargrove

The words were a reminder of the precariousness of his situation. Theodore exhaled slowly, his fingers tightening momentarily around the sheet.

“Please draft a response to Mr. Hargrove,” Theodore instructed, handing the letter back to Ingram. “Assure him of our commitment to settling the debts, but do not mention when the remaining payment will be made.”

“Yes, My Lord. Would you like me to include anything else?” Ingram asked.

“That will be sufficient,” Theodore said. Then, after a moment’s contemplation, he added, “Perhaps I should travel to London to attend the meeting with the merchants myself.”

Ingram paused, considering Theodore’s proposal. “While your presence might indeed influence the proceedings, Mr.Thompson appears to have the situation well in hand. Besides, society expects you to be in Essex for at least a fortnight.”

Theodore nodded slowly. “Very well, let Thompson handle it. Keep me informed of any developments.”

“Of course, My Lord,” Ingram replied, bowing slightly before making his way out of the study.

Theodore turned his gaze back to the window, looking out at the grounds of his estate. He should have flowers planted for Agnes. It should be the very least he was capable of.