*Mary*
With mischief in their eyes and secretive smiles, misses Hermione and Victoria arrive at precisely half past two. While I attend balls, parties, and soirees, I have never had an official coming out. I simply began to appear at events, tagging along after my aunt and cousin. I am tolerated with mild curiosity.
My betrothal to Fitz raises my stature somewhat, but with no brother to inherit my father's title, I am hardly sought after for gossip or connections. But whatever my lack in standing, the ladies sitting in my drawing room can hardly be bothered with it. They are on the hunt for much larger game.
"So they are friends of yours... these brothers from last night?" Miss Hermione asks pointedly. Both she and Victoria sit on the edge of their chairs, as though my answer will dete
