Page 8 of The Duke and his Hellion
“She knows… some things,” Abigail explained awkwardly and his laughter rumbled through the garden. “Are you hiding things from your family, my lady? That's not very proper.”
Abigail shot him an agitated look. “I am a grown woman, I can ask help from whomever I desire,” she retorted hotly. “Now are you planning on teaching me anything or are you satisfied with merely teasing me?”
At this, Charles only laughed softly though he turned his gaze towards her, his expression quite peculiar. “So, Lady Abigail,” he said, his voice low and conspiratorial. “Are you ready to begin your education in the ways of the ton?”
Abigail lifted her chin, meeting his gaze with a defiant spark in her eye. “I am, Your Grace. Teach me everything you know.”
Charles chuckled, shaking his head. “Careful what you wish for, my lady. The ton can be a treacherous place, full of hidden snares and pitfalls for the unwary.”
Abigail shrugged, a reckless smile playing about her lips. “I am not afraid, Your Grace. I am ready to learn, to do whatever it takes to succeed in this world.”
Charles studied her for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Then, with a nod, he began to speak, his voice taking on a lecturing tone.
“Very well, then. Let us start with one of the most basic, yet critical aspects of navigating society. Introductions.”
Abigail frowned, her brow furrowing in confusion. “Introductions? But surely that's a simple matter of exchanging names and pleasantries? I thought we would start with something more exciting.”
Charles shook his head, a wry smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Ah, if only it were that easy, my lady. In the ton, introductions are a complex dance, governed by a strict set of rules and expectations.”
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the manicured lawns and fragrant flower beds of the garden. “You see, a young lady's reputation is her most precious asset — the key to her future prospects and social standing. And introductions play a crucial role in protecting that reputation, in controlling who is allowed to interact with her and under what circumstances.”
Abigail nodded slowly, her mind racing as she tried to absorb this new information. “So... how does one go about obtaining an introduction?” she asked, her voice hesitant.
Charles smiled, a glint of approval in his eye. “There are a few ways. Neighborhood matrons and parsons' wives are often excellent sources, as they have a wide range of connections and social ties. Public events like dinners, parties, and festivals also provide opportunities for introductions.”
He paused, his expression turning serious. “But there are also strict rules governing who can make an introduction, and under what circumstances. For example, a person of lower social rank can never introduce themselves to someone of higher rank. That would be seen as an imposition, an act of arrogance and presumption.”
Abigail felt a flush of embarrassment, remembering her own bold approach to Lord Kensington at the ball. “I... I didn't realize,” she murmured, her gaze dropping to the ground.
Charles reached out and lightly pressed his finger under her chin, lifting her downcast face and gazing into her eyes. “It's alright, my lady. You're learning, and that's what matters. Just remember, in the future, to always seek an introduction through a mutual acquaintance, someone who can vouch for your character and standing.”
Abigail nodded, and a wide grin appeared on her face as she met his gaze once more. “I will, Your Grace. Thank you for the lesson.”
“Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule,” he said, his voice low and teasing. “For example, a gentleman of higher rank may introduce himself to a lady of lower rank, if he so chooses. It's a way of expressing interest, of singling her out for his attentions.”
Abigail's eyes widened at this thought and she looked at him quickly. “Is that so?”
Charles nodded, his eyes never leaving her face. “Indeed it is, my lady. And if a gentleman were to introduce himself to you in such a manner... well, it would be a clear indication of his intentions, of his desire to further your acquaintance.”
Abigail swallowed hard, her heart pounding in her chest as she held his gaze, a silent challenge passing between them. “And what if a lady were to reject such an advance?” she asked curiously. “What if she were to refuse the attentions of a gentleman, no matter his rank or status?”
Charles's smile widened, a glint of admiration in his eye. “Then she would be well within her rights to do so,” he said, his tone even. “A lady always has the power to choose whom she may address, and whom she may dislike. It is her prerogative, and no gentleman would dare to question it.”
A smile appeared on Abigail's face and she looked at Charles gratefully. Perhaps, she thought, it would not be so difficult after all — there were merely some things she had to remember. “Thank you, Your Grace,” she said quietly. “For everything.”
Charles bowed his head, a small smile playing about his lips. “It is my pleasure, Lady Abigail. And remember, should you ever find yourself in need of an introduction, or any other guidance in navigating theton... I am always at your service. Besides… this was only our first lesson.”
With that, he offered her his arm, and together they strolled back towards the house, the sun dappling their path with golden light.
“I would still love to know why you're helping me,” she said quickly, her shoulder brushing against his as she moved and her cheeks flushing at the touch.
“Perhaps I am merely kind,” Charles retorted, though the glint in his eyes hinted strongly that this was not the case.
“The kindness of your heart made you help a woman with Scottish blood?” She teased and he laughed, shaking his head.
“What if I have a soft spot for damsels in distress?” He retorted quickly and she shook her head with a soft laugh.
“A man like you?”
