CHAPTER FIVE
Julian, standing beside his brother, couldn't help but notice the sparkle in Lady Sophia's eyes as she gazed at Maximilian. He felt a pang of admiration for her, but endeavored to conceal his feelings, aware that her interest lay with his brother.
As the carriage rolled away, Julian turned to Maximilian. "Brother, don't you think Lady Sophia seems particularly taken with our family's gatherings?"
Maximilian shrugged. "She's just being sociable, Julian. Lady Sophia values our friendship."
Julian raised an eyebrow, doubting his brother's assessment. "If you say so, Max."
The brothers watched the carriage disappear into the distance, each lost in their own thoughts.
Julian pondered Lady Sophia's subtle cues, wondering if he dared hope for a reciprocal interest.
Maximilian, still oblivious, reflected on his own distraction during Lady Sophia's visit – the mysterious lady at the ball lingering in his thoughts.
Just as they stood there, lost in their thoughts. A man in his fifties with piercing brown eyes, walked towards them, with quiet confidence. His tailored black suit and polished shoes gleamed in the soft light. Clearing his throat softly, he bowed his head, hands clasped behind his back, exuding refined discretion and courtesy.
"Your father requests your presence in the living room. Young masters".Wynton,the butler announced, his voice measured and respectful.
They nodded at once before turning toward the manor. Together, they followed Wynton into the manor, their footsteps echoing through the foyer.
As they entered the living room, Sir Clifford sat comfortably in his favorite armchair, engrossed in the parchment he held. Lady Yvette, seated nearby, sipped her tea from a delicate tea cup, her eyes glittering with warmth. Beside her, a beautifully crafted tea tray rested on a sturdy side table, adorned with an assortment of cups, saucers, and a steaming teapot.
Lady Yvette's eyes widened as she took in the sight of Maximilian and Julian when they entered, clad in their training attire. Her gaze darted between the two, noting the contrasts.
Maximilian's fencing attire was immaculate, his sword belt gleaming. In stark contrast, Julian's attire was disheveled, his shirt torn, and his pants dusty. A faint smudge of dirt marred his left cheek.
"Good heavens, Julian! What happened?" She asked, concern etched on her face.
Julian's sheepish grin and Maximilian's knowing smile told the story. Lady Yvette's eyes sparkled with amusement.
"Ah, I see. Maximilian, you've been keeping your brother on his toes, I presume?" Her tone was laced with warmth and a hint of teasing.
A poised maid, dressed in crisp uniform, stood attentively nearby, her gaze flicking to the young masters as they settled into their seats. With a gentle smile, she glided over to them, her hands moving with practiced ease.
"Pardon, young masters," she murmured, reaching for the teapot. "Shall I pour you some tea?"
She lifted the teapot, its lid adorned with intricate silverwork, and began to pour a stream of golden liquid into the waiting cups. The aroma of freshly brewed tea wafted through the air, enticing and soothing.
Just as she was about to add a splash of milk, Maximilian halted her with a raised hand.
"I prefer something stronger", he said with a smile.
"Of course, Master Maximilian. I'll fetch it immediately."
The maid returned with a dignified haste, a crystal decanter and a pair of snifters nestled in a silver tray. She set the tray on the side table beside Lady Yvette, who nodded her approval.
"Thank you, " Maximilian said, his eyes lighting up as he accepted the decanter. "You know just what I need."
The maid smiled discreetly, her hands moving with precision as she poured a generous measure of amber liquid into each snifter. The aroma of fine brandy wafted up, mingling with the lingering scent of tea.
Sir Clifford looked up from his parchment, his brow furrowed. "Max, my dear, perhaps you should pace yourself. We have a long day ahead."
Maximilian chuckled, cradling his snifter in his hand. "Just a small indulgence, Father. I promise to behave."
Lady Yvette intervened, her voice soothing. "Let's not worry about that now. We have something important to discuss."
The maid's gaze sweeping the room to ensure everything was in order. Satisfied, she curtsied. "Will that be all, milady?"
Lady Yvette nodded. "Yes, dear. You may leave for now."
With a quiet "Yes, milady," the maid departed, leaving the family to their conversation.
The room fell silent, the only sound the soft clinking of Maximilian's snifter against his lips.
Sir Clifford then break the silent "I've received news from Worthingtons..." He paused, savoring the moment.
Julian's interest piqued,his eyebrows scrunching up.
Maximilian, however, remained composed, his mind racing with memories of his mother's recent conversations with him.
It was just a fortnight ago, on the eve of the Falcon Ball, that Lady Yvette, his mother, had summoned him to her chambers. She was seated at her vanity, surrounded by the soft glow of candles and the sweet scent of perfumes. Her handmaid, Alice, was busy styling her hair, while Lady Yvette's expert hands adjusted the delicate lace on her gown.
"Max, darling, come closer," she said, her voice bloomed with warmth and inviting.
Maximilian approached, standing beside her vanity as Alice discreetly withdrew.
"Mother, you look stunning," he said, admiring her reflection.
Lady Yvette smiled, her eyes gleaming. "Thank you, darling. Now, I want to discuss something important with you."
Maximilian's attention heightened, sensing the seriousness in her tone.
"The Falcon Ball is an ideal opportunity for you to mingle with society's elite, especially the unmarried ladies," she began. "You're twenty-five now, and it's time to consider settling down."
Maximilian nodded, aware of his mother's concerns.
"I've compiled a list of respectable families with eligible daughters," she continued, producing a small, intricately carved box from her dresser. "The Worthingtons, in particular, have a lovely daughter, Cecilia. Lady Carina,her mother is a paragon of elegance ,refinement and came from noble lineage. I have no doubt her daughter shares those qualities."
Maximilian recalled his mother's enthusiasm for the Worthington family.
"Mother, I understand your wishes, but—"
Lady Yvette's gentle touch silenced him. "Hear me out, darling. Marriage is a union of families, not just individuals. The Worthingtons would bring valuable connections and strengthen our family's position."
Maximilian remembered the calculated glint in his mother's eyes, her determination to secure a advantageous marriage for him.
Now, as his father paused, a triumphant smile spreading across his face, Maximilian realized that his mother's plans were unfolding.
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