Betrothed |h.s|

ten

Jane

In the days that followed the ball, there was a whirlwind of social engagements and formal gatherings, each more lavish and extravagant than the last. Despite these outings that I attended on the arm of the ever attentive Duke, my mind remained consumed by the conversation Harry and I shared on the terrace.

Today, the sun shone brightly overhead, casting a warm glow over the bustling streets of London. Benjamin proposed a promenade around town, a respite from my overbearing mother and the overall chaos of my younger siblings. As we strolled through the picturesque streets, our mothers still following a few steps behind, Benjamin regaled me with tales of his childhood and the intricacies of his family's noble lineage. I did my best to listen closely, to give him the attention he deserved as my betrothed. As hard as I try, my mind still wanders.

Harry's words echo through my thoughts, a painful reminder of the limitations imposed on us by our situation. Benjamin is kind, well-mannered. He's earnestly trying to make this arrangement work. But it was as if our encounter at the ball reopened a wound that I thought would heal over by now. I have to remind myself that Harry is not an option anymore, that my fate was bound to Benjamin now. The thought is bitter, but I must make the best of my situation.

The Duke's steady, reliable presence was a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions that is Harry. Benjamin is courteous and respectful, a true gentleman that is genuinely trying. Despite my lingering feeling toward his brother, I owe it to the Duke to give our arrangement a fair chance.

"Are you enjoying the day?" He asks, his voice breaking through my conflicted thoughts.

I force a smile in return, "Immensely, thank you."

"Would you care for some refreshments?" He asks, gesturing toward a tea shop nestled along the busy street.

"That would be lovely," I breathe out, thankful for the distraction.

We make our way to the cozy tea shop and settle into a table. But my reprieve is short lived, as I recognize a familiar face just outside the window.

There he was, effortlessly charming a group of women as they giggled and blushed under his attentive gaze. I felt a pang of jealousy at the sight of his alluring smile, mixed with an unexpected surge of anger. How could he act so carefree, how can he move on while I struggle to compose myself? Was this all just a game? As he engages in amiable banter with a group of women, I can't find it in myself to look away.

"Jane, is something the matter?" Benjamin asks, his brows furrowed in concern once my gaze meets his.

"No. Nothing of importance. I... I was just admiring the architecture of that building over there."

He follows my gaze, nodding appreciatively. "Indeed, it is a marvelous example of the city's rich history. London has much to offer and I hope to show you all of its wonders."

"I look forward to it," I reply, my voice lacking the enthusiasm I wished I could muster.

Over tea, Benjamin and I engage in light-hearted conversation, discussing our respective interests and sharing anecdotes from our childhoods. He is a gentleman, through and through, his genuine efforts to make me feel comfortable and included do not go unnoticed. And despite my inner turmoil and stolen glances in Harry's direction, I found myself slowly warming up to his company.

As the day progressed, we found ourselves wandering through the vibrant market stalls, having lost our mothers somehow during the day. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked goods and the lively chatter of merchants trying to make a sale. I delicately hold Benjamin's arm as he guides us through the crowd.