THE COLLISION

“Congratulations!”

The people are cheering as the bride and groom get out of the church. It was the union between Lord Benjamin Brooks and Lady Amanda Cole; the Baron of Griffard, who was two and thirty at that point, was able to get married to one of the most beautiful ladies in London.

“You did an excellent job!” Jasmine whispered as they cheered and watched the bride and groom.

“I didn’t do anything; I just introduced them to each other,” Violet replied

“You are too modest, Violet; you are the great hand at work in this union,” Jasmine replied

“I can take some credit but Lord Brooks was like Amanda from the start,” Violet replied

As the two ladies chatted, the bride, Lady Cole, approached them and hugged Violet.

“My lady!” Violet said

“Thank you, I am very grateful for you, Lady Spencer,” Amanda said

She smiled and left the two ladies.

“Your matchmaking abilities are astonishing; can you perhaps help me next season, my lady.” Jasmine teasingly said

“Is that a challenge, my dear friend?” Violet replied

“Maybe next life, my friend,” Jasmine replied

The two walked away from the cheering crowd, as everyone, just like them, was excited about the union.

Lady Violet Spencer is the only daughter of Viscount Sebastian Spencer and Lady Vanessa Spencer. She is the youngest, with three older brothers: Stephen, the eldest, at the age of zero and thirty; Vincent, the second son, at the age of eight and twenty; and Simon, the third son, at the age of five and twenty. Violet, as the youngest and only daughter, is already in a dangerous situation because her brothers are overprotective, in contrast to her dear mother, Lady Spencer, who wants her children to marry.

Lord Sebastian died when Violet was only three years old, and her brother Stephen, the new Viscount, took care of them. Now that the second season of the marriage market is starting soon, all eyes are on her, given her age of three and twenty. She is already considered eligible to get married.

“The modiste will be here tomorrow, so get ready, Violet,” Lady Vanessa said.

Violet and her family are in the drawing room as their mother announces that. Vincent and Simon looked at Violet, who was busy practicing her piano forte.

“The marriage market is open,” Simon said

“From the looks of it, dear brother, our mama is ready for the battle,” Vincent replied

Lady Vanessa glared at his two sons, for she knew they were teasing her.

“Any particular color or design you want for a dress, my dear?” Vanessa asked Violet

Nothing, mother; I trust your taste,” Violet replied

“Are you sure about that sister?” Vincent said

Vanessa glared madly at Vincent, as if her eyes could be daggers.

“Ignore them, my dear; we will find you a suitable husband for sure,” Vanessa said

“No rush, mama, I do think my brothers need more exposure this season, after all, they are not getting young anymore,” Violet replied

Her brothers glared at her as she teasingly flashed a smile at them.

“Dear sister, are you saying we are not attractable?” Simon asked

“Oh no, brother, I’m just stating that your age is far more eligible to get married than mine. After all, the three of you need to make sure the Spencer bloodline continues.” Violet replied

“Enough!” Stephen said as he poured a cup of tea.

“Stephen, please make sure this season Violet will get a match,” Vanessa said

“I will support mother in all manners, as long as Violet finds her match good and suitable. I will gladly give my blessing,” Stephen replied

“How fake of him!” Vincent whispered to Simon

“I know, knowing he made sure that no men was good enough for Violet last season,” Simon said

Violet continues to play the piano, but she is uninterested as her mother and brothers further discuss the arrangement this season. She never wanted to get married; never might be a strong word. But for sure, getting married is the last thing on Violet’s list of things to do. Her mind and heart are set on accomplishing more than just becoming a housewife.

There is nothing against her becoming a housewife; her mother is a great lady in the Spencer household. But it all made sense for her father, who loved her mother very much, and for her brothers, who keep describing the love her parents have for one another. She wants it, but not as badly as others believe. As such, she simply assisted other ladies, all of whom had strong desires to get married. Just like what she did for Lady Cole and Lord Brooks, if it were not for her introduction, they would never have courted. Violet thinks that is her purpose at this moment.

The night grew longer, and Violet was in her room getting ready for bed.

“Violet!” Stephen came to her room

“Brother? How can I help you?” Violet replied

Stephen entered her room; he approached Violet and patted her head gently.

“You should have spoken up regarding the marriage market this season,” Stephen said

“What is to say, brother, Mother is ready,” Violet said

“Are you ready, Last year was brutal,” Stephen said

Violet stared at her brother.

“It was brutal for you; you made it hard for my suitors,” Violet replied

“Well, they should step up,” Stephen replied

“Brother, threatening and bullying my suitors are not the solution,” Violet said

Stephen let out a sigh.

“I am worried for you; I am responsible for you all and I think I have a say on who will come and enter your lives.” Stephen replied

“And thank you for caring, but it is too much. You are just making mother upset,” Violet replied

“Are you even ready to get married?” Stephen asked

Violet smiled and held her brother’s hands.

“Do not worry, brother, I will take all of my options and not decide hastily. I will get married on my own terms and not by force.” Violet replied

“Or you can just stay here, take care of Mama, and not get married,” Stephen said

Violet glared at his brother and slapped his shoulder. Stephen smiled, then gave Violet a kiss on the forehead.

“Good night, sister,” Stephen said

“Good night, brother,” Violet replied

Violet never feared the thought of becoming a spinster; to be honest, it is not a bad thing. She is the only daughter of the Spencer household. She doesn’t have any duty to provide an heir to the family. Her brothers are the ones who need to work hard, not her. But it is a different case for Lady Vanessa Spencer. She wanted Violet to be more than just a lady; she needed to be the noblest of them all. Being a Spencer is not an easy task. Whether you are a man or woman, as long as you’re a Spencer, your duty to your family is to make it great.

The buzz around town is all about the union of Lady Cole and Lord Brooks. Because it was the most unexpected union of the previous season and this season, everyone is looking forward to the next best thing.

“Good to know Lord Brooks got married,” the man said while reading it in the newspaper.

“He is lucky to get married, especially the lady she acquires is young and able to provide an ample amount of heirs,” a lady said

The man glared at the old lady and smiled.

“Just make your point, Lady Hyde,” He said

“Your Grace, as the only living heir of Holsten Dukedom, isn’t it proper for you to find a wife soon?” Lady Hyde said

“We will get there, my lady; what is the rush? I am only zero and thirty,” He said

“Timothy, this is no fun and games. I am serious,” Lady Hyde said

“I feel the same way; just maybe I can find my wife-to-be this season,” Timothy said

Timothy Pearce is the Duke of Holsten; he is a bachelor and the most sought-after young man in London society. He and his aunt, Lady Luisa Hyde, are in London to socialize during this coming wedding season.

By no account is this Timothy’s idea; he is never interested in marriage, let alone meeting women for that purpose. He became the new duke of Holsten just three years ago; the death of his father was inevitable. Lady Hyde, as the new duke’s godparent and trusted person, wanted to spend time away from the busy duke’s life.

“I have compiled a good list of eligible young ladies for you to see,” Lady Hyde said

“Can we just rest first before going through this list, my lady?” Timothy said

“Your Grace, I agree to accompany you here in London so you can fulfill your duty as Duke and not galavant,” Lady Hyde replied

“And I am thankful for that; the marriage market will start in a week and we just enjoy some peace and quiet before that moment occurred,” Timothy said

Lady Hyde sighed deeply. The carriage they were riding in had arrived in London.

“We are here, your Grace,” The footman said

“Very well!” Timothy replied to

Lady Hyde and Timothy got off the carriage. The Duke’s attendants started to unload the carriages.

“It is good to be back,” Lady Hyde said

Yes, it is,” Timothy replied

The modiste arrives at the Spencer’s as expected, and Lady Vanessa is like a woman playing dress-up.

“Maybe a shade of pink and blue will be good for her dress,” Lady Vanessa said

“Good choice, madame,” The moderator replied

Violet was practically uninterested as her mother continued to give instructions to the moderator.

“Good day, Spencers,” Jasmine arrived

“Oh Lady Brown we didn’t know you were coming,” Vincent said

“Pardon for the sudden visit,” Jasmine said

“Not at all; please entertain yourself as our sister is having the worst moment of her life,” Simon said

Violet was surrounded by her mother and the maid when Jasmine entered the drawing room.

“Jasmine!” Violet, with delight, said

Violet moved away from her mother and the modiste and approached Jasmine.

“We are not yet done, my dear” Vanessa said

“Can I just talk for a bit with Jasmine, and I think the moderator will like to have some cake and tea.” Violet said

Lady Vanessa let out a deep sigh and smiled. She nodded and talked to the moderator. Violet smiled and pulled Jasmine away. They headed to her bedroom.

“Thank you for coming and rescuing me,” Violet said

“As if you need any rescuing,” Jasmine said

“I do! Mama is getting her hopes too high this coming season,” Violet said

As Violet said that, Jasmine sat on the bedside and smiled sadly at her.

“What is the matter, Jasmine?” Violet asked

“Mother gave me an ultimatum—to get married this season.” Jasmine replied,

“Ultimatum? What do you mean?” Violet asked.

“It means, my dear friend, if I do not get a husband soon, my mother will send me to the monastery to become a nun,” Jasmine said

“She can’t do that,” Violet said

Jasmine looked at Violet, and her tears started to fall. Violet hugged her dear friend. Is it as if the end of the world has fallen on her?

“Oh Jas, I didn’t know you were experiencing this,” Violet said

“It is not your fault, Vi; our situations are different. You are lucky to have older brothers to take the responsibility for you, but I, as the eldest daughter of the family with two more younger female siblings, need to set a good example,” Jasmine said

Violet let out a deep sigh. Jasmine is her childhood friend. They promised to be bound to each other from the beginning of time, and now her friend is in a predicament. The only thing Violet can offer is her help.

“Let’s find you a husband, then,” Violet said

“Whatever do you mean?” Jasmine asked

“What I mean is I will help you find a husband,” Violet replied

“You would do that?” Jasmine said

Violet hugged her friend again. She knew that for her and Jasmine to be together, she needed to get married, and going to the monastery was not an option.

“Yes! Even though I will be losing my partner in crime, it is better than you leaving me,” Violet replied

“Thank you, will be forever loyal to you, Violet, even if I find a husband,” Jasmine said

Violet smiled, knowing that finding a husband—or, for that matter, a love match—is not an easy task. But for the sake of her friend, even if she needs to sweep the whole market and eliminate all competition, she will.

Jasmine is dear to her!

Very dear!

As expected, word spread quickly in London, as every corner of the city knew that the Duke of Holsten had arrived and that he was with his dear godmother, Lady Hyde. It’s as if the “vicious mamas” of London are circling, gathering every detail they require.

Is the Duke in search of a wife?

Does their daughter have a chance?

“I heard that everyone is excited to see you at the first ball of the season,” Lady Hyde said as she poured milk on her tea.

“How exciting!” Timothy sarcastically replied

“Your grace, have you even checked the list I drew for you?” Lady Hyde said

“What list, my lady?” Timothy replied

Lady Hyde was not pleased with Timothy. Is it as if he is not taking this seriously? She approaches the young man and places a piece of paper on the table.

“Look at it,” Lady Hyde said

Timothy let out a deep sigh and checked the piece of paper. It was a very long list of ladies’ names and their family backgrounds.

“My Lady, I do think this is unnecessary,” Timothy said

“Young man, I am not in the mood for jest. I promised your late mother I will support you until my last breath and that includes the matter of your duchess to be,” Lady Hyde said

“I do not see the urgency of a duchess right now; Holsten is doing well,” Timothy replied

“Your grace, managing Holsten is no easy feat; what do plan to do once the household is in need of decision-making?” Lady Hyde replied

“You and Lady Harper are there to do that,” Timothy replied

Lady Hyde angrily stomped her crane as Timothy enraged her.

“I am an old woman, your grace, and to be practically honest, living for a very long time is not part of my plans,” Lady Hyde replied

“If so ever happens, you will depart me. That is the only time I will try to find a wife,” Timothy replied

He stood from his seat and got out of the drawing room. He never understood the urgency or importance of having a wife. as if something untoward will happen to him since he is still young and healthy.

He does not see the importance of the rush itself.

He simply does not require a duchess to be truthful.

The news really did reach far, even at the infamous “Royce Gents Bar,” where all men from different families gather.

“The Duke of Holsten is back in town,” Vincent said.

“Didn’t his old man die three years ago?” Simon said

“Yes and it is rude to talk about things about which we do have little knowledge,” Stephen replied

“Isn’t he your good friend, brother?” Vincent asked

Stephen drank his whiskey and called for another glass.

“I could not say we are friends; acquainted is the proper word. He studied in Oxford and our fathers are friends,” Stephen replied

“So you are friends?” Simon asked

“Stop!” Stephen replied

It is not that Stephen and the Duke are not friends; they hardly knew each other. They meet but are never truly engaged. On the other hand, their fathers did a lot of business, but as the former Viscount passed away, that connection also disappeared.

“What do you think is his purpose for coming here?” Simon asked

“That is none of our business,” Stephen replied

“I heard that he is with Lady Hyde, and if that lady is involved, you know what is coming,” Vincent said

Stephen drank another glass of whiskey. If Lady Hyde returns, she might be assisting the Duke in finding his future wife; nothing indicates that it is them, but if Violet will be joining this season, the probability is quite alarming.

“Aren’t lady hyde and mother acquainted?” Simon said

“I do believe so; they did catch some schemes,” Vincent said

“Brothers, we need to take care of Violet this season,” Stephen said

The two stared at their brother; this was the first time they’d mentioned Violet’s. Ever since her social debut, all they have done is hinder her from ever finding a match. Like any other older brother out there, nobody is enough for their sister.

“What about Violet, brother?” Vincent asked

“She is still young, but I do believe that we need to find her a match,” Stephen replied

“What? I disagree,” Simon firmly replied

“I understand that we do not see anybody a match for her, but I would not want our sister to become a spinster as well,” Stephen said

“She is alright; I will take care of her. She will be a great aunt to my future children,” Simon said

Stephen let out a sigh and drank his whiskey. I poured another glass.

“Then after that? I do not have any doubt that she will be a great aunt to our future children. But the reality is that we cannot live forever. Who will take care of her? Obviously, a mother will not also allow a Spencer to become a spinster, Stephen replied.

Vincent and Simon didn’t have the guts to reply; what their brother is saying is the reality they need to face. But imagining Violet with a husband is hard for them; Violet didn’t lose any suitors. In all honesty, their sister is very beautiful, which makes them angry because it is hard to keep her. Their mother is not also making it easy for them; once Violet got married, all of them were next in line to find a wife.

“What is your plan, brother?” Vincent asked

“I want to know everyone who’s going to court Violet and we will try our best to pick the husband for her,” Stephen replied

“That would be hard, considering every man in this town has questionable background. But maybe we can get a diamond in the rubble,” Simon said

“We have too; the fate of our sister is in the balance and ours as well,” Stephen replied

That same evening, Violet was in her room.

“Should I leave a light on, my lady?” Nora asked

“Yes, I will put it out later,” Violet said

“As you wish, my lady!” Nora replied and left the room

Violet was at her table, busy writing. She is actually drafting her plan to ensure that Jasmine will be able to get married this season; she has compiled a list of eligible young men compatible with Jasmine. Violet takes this seriously; she doesn’t want her dear friend taken away from her. Her matchmaking worked for Lord Brook and Lady Cole, so it will work for Jasmine.

It has too; no matter what happens, she needs to make sure it will happen. She doesn’t care anymore about herself; this is all for her dear friend Jasmine.

The opening of the season is nearing, and many mothers are also getting ready for that moment. At this point, young ladies are encouraged to hone their skills in order to secure a respectable marriage proposal.

“We need to change things in the drawing room,” Lady Vanessa said

Yes, my mistress,” Madam Lorie replied

As they are walking through the market, they come across Lady Hyde.

“If it isn’t Lady Spencer,” Lady Hyde said.

“Your grace, it is pleasure to see you,” Lady Vanessa greeted

“I hope it isn’t a bother to join you,” Lady Hyde said

“Not at all; it will be a pleasure,” Lady Vanessa said

The two started to promenade, and it did catch the attention of a lot of people. Lady Spencer and Lady Hyde knew each other.

“How are you, my lady?” Lady Hyde asked

“I am fine; as of the moment, I am busy preparing with my daughter for this season,” Vanessa replied

“I see, How are the young Spencers?” Lady Hyde asked

“Sigh! They are still young, my lady,” Vanessa replied

“I see, Are they not looking for a prospect this season?” Lady Hyde asked

“I am hoping at least my eldest does,” Vanessa replied

Lady Hyde smiled at people who were looking at her; she then moved closer to Lady Spencer.

“The Duke of Holsten is town,” Lady Hyde said

“I heard my lady,” Lady Spencer

“If I were direct, I would love to introduce young lady Spencer to his Grace,” Lady Hyde said

A bright smile came to Vanessa’s lips as she heard those words. She knows that her daughter Violet is a desirable candidate for marriage; it is just that her sons are getting in the way of it. Now that a match is being made, it is irreversible. Vanessa knows at this point that her efforts as a mother will not be in vain.

She will find the perfect match for Violet.

“It will be a pleasure, my lady, to introduce to your esteemed guest, my daughter,” Vanessa replied

“Then it is settled; I would love to see them engaged in a conversation. Your daughter is a Spencer after all,” Lady Hyde replied

“We will be ready, my lady” Vanessa replied

Vanessa cannot hide her excitement; Lady Hyde will be the first sponsor for the season’s opening gala, and making her way to introduce Violet to a Duke is no easy feat. Now, all she needs to ensure is that her sons will not interfere.

Violet decided to pay Jasmine a visit. “Good day!” she said, “and so nice to see you, Lady Spencer!” as she needed to inform her of her plans.

“Good day!” Violet greeted

“Oh, Lady Spencer, it's so nice to see you,” Lady Brown replied

“Violet, you're here.”

Jane and Juliet Brown, the two younger sisters of Jasmine, approach. They are very young. Jane, the second daughter, is only six and one, while Juliet is four and one. Their age difference from Jasmine’s is great.

“Stop crowding, Lady Spencer,” Lady Brown said

“It is alright, my lady,” Violet replied

“How come you’re friends with my sister, Violet? You’re too pretty,” Juliet asked

“Hey! Do not say that about your sister,” Lady Brown scolded

“Your sister is pretty, Juliet” Violet replied

“How about us?” Jane asked

“The two of you as well, your pretty blooming buds,” Violet replied

“Stop right now!” Jasmine entered the drawing room

“Hello!” Violet greets

Jasmine pulled Violet away from the crowd, and they went to her room.

“I didn’t expect your visit,” Jasmine said

“I have a plan,” Violet said

Violet then pulled out a small piece of paper and showed it to Jasmine.

“What is this list for?” Jasmine asked

“This are the list of eligible young man you can choose as your husband,” Violet replied

“List? You really went all out,” Jasmine replied

“Look, I promise I will help you find a husband and I will,” Violet said

“So what is the plan exactly?” Jasmine asked

“As the seasons begin, we go to galas, picnics, and all. We will meet these people, and you will choose from them,” Violet said

“That is easier said than done,” Jasmine replied

Violet holds Jasmine’s hands.

“Do not worry; I will make it happen,” Violet replied

“Thank you!” Jasmine said

The two girls hugged and smiled.

“We will make this work; you will be happy,” Violet said.

“I am already happy, Vi. I just want to make sure I will bring good things to my family,” Jasmine replied.

“I understand!” Violet said

Violet knew that this task was not simple and that her decision to help Jasmine could also affect her life at this point.

“Now let’s ensure that all of them have their eyes on you,” Violet said

“As if they will notice me?” Jasmine said

“They will!” Violet said

Confidence is something Violet holds dear as part of the Spencer household. She holds a great deal of pride in her entire family. She might not have chosen to be born into this family, but she never regretted it. Being a Spencer has its advantages, and she intends to take advantage of them.

After her lovely visit to the Brown household, Violet decides to go to the town market.

“Are we looking for something to miss?” Nora asked

“ I would just like to look around Nora” Violet replied

As they were walking, the volume of the crowd slightly increased. Violet tried her best to avoid it, but she ended up colliding with someone.

“I am sorry!” Violet said

“It is quite alright!” The man said

Violet’s handkerchief ended up falling on the street as she was about to reach it. The man took it and handed it to her.

“Here you go!” He said

“Thank you!” Violet replied

As Violet turned and looked at the young man, it was none other than the Duke of Holsten. Timothy, on the other hand, stared at the young lady, for it was his first time seeing her, and she looked very familiar.

“Thank you sir, and I am sorry the crowd is overwhelming,” Violet said

Timothy was a little surprised as the young lady addressed him as sir, which means that she didn’t know him.

“Are you sure you’re alright, my lady?” Timothy asked

“Yes, sir!” Violet replied, but looking around,

Violet didn’t know it was the Duke. She was busy looking around, looking for Nora; it seems they got separated due to the crowd. Timothy, on the other hand, continued staring at her. The crowd slowly grew again, and they were smack in the middle.

“I think it is best to move to the side walk, my lady,” Timothy said

“You’re right!” Violet replied

Timothy held his hands toward Violet without even thinking. Violet reached out, and the two of them got to the sidewalk. The street becomes more and more busy.

“I hope you chaperone is alright,” Timothy said

“I do hope; I am worried,” Violet replied

Timothy had never before spoken naturally to young ladies; most of them had learned who he was and had changed their attitudes.

“My lady!” Nora suddenly appeared

“Nora, thank god you are alright,” Violet replied

Yes, my lady, how about you?” Nora said

“I am fine,” Violet replied

Violet totally forgot the man who helped him. Timothy just smiled and turned around to make his departure. Not until!

“Excuse me, sir!” Violet called

Yes, my lady!” Timothy replied

“Thank you earlier, Can I perhaps know your name so I can express my gratitude properly, Mr?” Violet said

Timothy smiled and nodded.

“Your thank you is enough, my lady; I better get going,” Timothy replied and left

Violet was stunned as the gentleman refused to tell her his name, a very unfamiliar occurrence.

“Let’s go, my lady” Nora said

Alright,” Violet said

Violet would never be seen engaging with a man, even if he was from a well-known or educated family. As a Spencer, she will never put her family name in jeopardy, no matter how it looks. But it does make her wonder: how can a man and woman truly know one another if they are limited to a mere glance?

That evening, the dining room at the Spencer household was full. The three boys decide to have a lovely dinner with the family.

“It is so nice to see everyone,” Lady Vanessa replied

Indeed, mother,” Stephen replied

“How was the town visit, sister?” Simon asked Violet

“It was lovely; there were alot of people. I think it has something to do with the opening of the season,” Violet replied

“Are you excited?” Vincent replied

“Rather excited, I think I am a little interested right now,” Violet replied

The boys looked at each other.

“I forgot to mention that I meet Lady Hyde,” Vanessa replied

Everyone at the table looked at each other with surprise written all over their faces. They know for a fact that their mother and Lady Hyde are cooking something up.

“Oh, I heard she is with the Duke of Holsten,” Stephen replied

“Oh yes! And we will be meeting them at the gala,” Vanessa replied

“So Lady Hyde will introduce the Duke?” Stephen replied and looked at Violet

Violet just kept eating and listening to the conversation. She knew that Lady Hyde and her mother were setting her up with the Duke.

“I would highly appreciate it if the three of you would be supportive this season,” Vanessa replied, glaring at her sons.

“Of course, mother, we intend to participate this season,” Stephen replied

The direction of the conversation at the table is starting to get heated. Simon and Vincent are watching each moment carefully.

“I sincerely hope the Duke enjoys this season,” Violet remarked.

As Violet uttered those words, everyone turned to face her.

Vincent questioned Vi, “Are you possibly interested in meeting the Duke?”

Violet remarked, “If given the chance, but I highly doubt the Duke will be interested because his reputation is something to look at.”

Everyone was in awe of Violet’s response to Vincent. Simon grinned and took a sip of his wine.

“I think the Duke is reputable enough, my dear,” Vanessa said.

“I do not doubt that, mother; I do believe the Duke is reputable and has an outstanding background, just like my dear brothers,” Violet replied

“I do hope this season will go well for us,” Vanessa replied

“I do hope so, mother,” Stephen replied

Violet did intentionally make that remark to throw off her mother. In her perspective, being the center of a plot to entrap a young duke into marriage is not on her life list. She truly wishes this season would be good, as her one and only mission is to ensure her dear friend Jasmine gets married.

Timothy was in the drawing room and was drinking a bottle of whiskey.

“You are still up your grace,” Lady Hyde said

“How was your day, my lady?” Timothy asked

“Well, I met old friends,” Lady Hyde replied

“Good to hear!” Timothy replied

“Your Grace, isolating yourself here is not the next course of action,” Lady Hyde said

“I am not isolating my lady; I just do not find it interesting to go out,” Timothy replied

“Your Grace, I understand that returning to London is not easy for you. But as a Duke, you have an obligation to fulfill,” Lady Hyde replied

“I understand that; do not worry, I do not plan to coop up in my apartment,” Timothy replied

Lady Hyde let out a deep sigh.

“I do hope that this season you will find whatever clarity you are looking for,” Lady Hyde said and left.

Timothy, pounder of what Lady Hyde said, what is he even looking for? He thought to himself. His being the Duke is very difficult to get used to; all aspects of his being have been altered since he inherited the title. If you ask him, he never wanted to be a Duke.

Nobody asked Timothy what he even wanted to do, and nobody in this world even tried to understand him—not even the last breath of his father; that person only thought of the Dukedome and never his relationship with Timothy. Timothy’s father did the same thing to his wife. Until her mother’s last breath, only Timothy was by her side. His father was never there.

Timothy grew up knowing that the only thing he could trust in this world was himself.

Nobody else, only himself.