“Now, shall we have that walk?” He put his hand out to her.
“Yes, some fresh air would be nice right now,” she said putting her hand in his. Her arm went warm and her heart was beating faster and faster as he held onto her.
They walked out of his office and out the back of the grand house. There were no guests in this area. It was very private. A staircase led them down to the lawn and to a small area of trees. She felt like they were escaping from a place in secret. It felt good.
Before long, they were entering the woods on the property.
“This truly is beautiful. I cannot believe that you have this all to yourself. I am quite jealous,” she said, looking up at the towering trees.
“I thought that you would enjoy it. That is why she wanted to share it with you. Someone that can appreciate the beauty of something so simple like fabric, must also enjoy the beauty of nature,” He said.
“Well, you thought correctly Mr. Byers.”
“This is what I wanted to show you. I thought you would enjoy it and it would be more enjoyable if I were with you,” He said stopping along the trail. He looked down a long stone stair path. Down below was a small pond with a dock and rowing boats. There were swans and ducks frolicking in the water in pure happiness; it was absolutely breathtaking.
“Oh yes!” she said bouncing up and down excited by the sight of it. Perhaps it wasn't very ladylike of her to be bouncing, but she did not care. She was already a courtesan and actress walking alongside Mr. Byers, she couldn't get much more inappropriate than she already was.
“Does that mean that you like it?”
“Yes, I absolutely do. This is most exciting. Do you mean that they are going to be able to get in one of those?”
“Ye,s if you would allow me to row you around ma'am,” He said bowing very low in front of her, teasing her.
“Yes you may, sir,” she said.
“I am delighted. Not even my sister will get in a boat. She says what if it should tip over how inappropriate that would be. To which I say then let it tip over...” He said as he held her hand leading her down the steps.
“That would be a funny sight. I daresay that she would laugh,” she said.
“I would too, and it would be a sight to see,” he said.
He helped her climb into the boat, and then he climbed in after. In no time they were rowing around the pond. She was fascinated by all the beautiful birds and at how still and alone they were. She could not believe that this massive park was all his. In truth, it did rival Hyde Park in London, but this was his home and not a public park.
The boat rocked more than usual, and they both looked at each other with wide eyes and then burst out laughing, knowing that they could tip over at any moment. But was that not the edge that she was also walking on in real life. She was in this boat of joy being in fine society and she knew that at any moment it could tip over, yet she still stayed inside the boat.
“This is just as I imagined it. It is what I had hoped for when I wrote that letter to you inviting you to come to Brentwood Manor.” He said smiling at her and looking just at her. “I wanted you to enjoy my home with you... share it.”
“I did enjoy your letters very much. I looked forward to them,” she said smiling at him, feeling very vulnerable saying those words to him.
“As did I, Miss Proctor,” he said.
“Katrina, call me Katrina...” she said.
He raised an eyebrow at her. “Is that not inappropriate, using your first name?”
“Not if it is just you and I.”
“Katrina...” He said.
“And call me Mason, if you please.”
She enjoyed hearing her name come from his perfect mouth. Watching his muscular arms row back and forward with the oars in each hand, was bringing a flush upon her. He was a very fit man, and she wondered if this was why he had such a good physique. He rowed very often, and as of late he had been thinking of her when he was rowing. The thought brought goosebumps all over her body.
“Katrina, if I may be so bold to ask. The ball tomorrow night, if you are not yet already engaged, may I ask for your hand in the first two dances?”
“I am not engaged. I would be delighted,” she said.
He smiled and released a sigh as though he was relieved. It shocked her, was he ever told no by any woman? She thought not.
They spent the rest of the afternoon leisurely floating on the pond, and then he walked her around more of the property, but not all. Indeed you could not walk the entire thing in one day.
Later she was escorted back to her room by Mr. Byers where he let her know he was excited to continue their conversations later in the evening before dinner, and after.
She walked in to find the rooms empty. Her sister must still be entertaining with the others. She took off her walking clothes and climbed into bed to lie down for an hour or so, and to think about everything that had happened that afternoon. It was the loveliest day of her entire life.
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The night was just as grand. It was just as before, everyone gathered in the parlour for drinks before being called to dinner, and then after dinner there was entertainment. They performed scenes from Romeo and Juliet. It was absolutely beautiful, and appropriate for her position, she thought. Adeline dressed as a man and played Romeo and all were delighted by the performance, including the bride and groom.
But the next day, she was all anxiety and nerves. For that night would be the ball, and she was to dance the first two dances with Mr. Byers. She should be flattered, but she knew that because all eyes would be on him meant that all eyes would be on her. She didn't know if she was ready for that, but what choice did she have?
“You look perfect,” Madame Douvaine said as she fussed over her dark black hair, piling it high on her head.
Katrina sat in front of the vanity in the green room looking at her reflection. Adeline was there as well and she did look rather nice, she thought. Adeline wore a dress of green colours, a lighter shade of green made up the top bodice, cut in the u-shaped neckline style, showing off some of her pale cleavage that her tight corset pushed upward. From the gathered and pleated bodice, dropped the long dark olive-green fabric, in the empire style of the day. Beautiful and delicate netting ran down the front of the dress. White gloves complemented the small white flowers that Madame Douvaine put in her hair. Adeline was all set, as was Madame Douvaine in a dark blue silk dress. Katrina wore a gown of soft pale pink with white lace. It also had the low U-shaped neckline and quarter sleeves. Lace overlay topped the entire skirt in a delicate fashion and her hair was adorned with soft pink flowers.
“Shall we?” she said.
“Yes, I am ready.” she stood up and grabbed Adeline’s hand. Together they made their way out of their rooms, down the staircase and toward the back of the house and into the ballroom. It was already more than half full of the guests. Not just those that were staying at Mr. Byers’, but those that also lived locally.
Katrina looked around for Mr. Byers and did not see him, but Mr. William Dawson was quickly at their side stealing Adeline away.
Katrina and Madame Douvaine went to the side of the vast room toward the refreshments as they complemented the flower garlands and decor in the rooms. It was a wedding after all, and this was a wedding party of sorts. Then Mr. Douvaine approached.
“There you are, dear,” Madame Douvaine said.
“Madame Douvaine, you are ravishing,” he smiled and Katrina noted he had been to the drawing room to have brandy early with the gentleman, but Madame Douvaine giggled as if she were ten years younger.
Suddenly, a loud tapping echoed through the room as a footman struck his cane on the ground. Everyone grew quiet.
“The bride, Miss Mary Benton, and the groom, Mr. George William.”
Everyone clapped as they entered. The bride and groom greeted everyone with their smiles as they walked into the ballro
om arm-in-arm. The crowd congratulated the couple on their upcoming ceremony.
“Mr. Byers of Brentwood Manor and Miss Miranda Byers of Brentwood Manor” The footman then said. Mr. Mason Byers stood in the entryway. Everyone clapped louder, as he gave a nod and then walked into the ballroom with an elegant and regal confidence with his sister Miranda on his arm. He absolutely took her breath away in his dark black waistcoat and elegant clothing. His dark black curls were still unruly and she liked it that way. He continued walking greeting those that he passed, and then he saw her. He smiled and changed direction. To her embarrassment he was coming directly toward her. she could tell that everyone was looking at her because of it.
“Miss Proctor, you look absolutely stunning.”
“Thank you, sir.” she gave him a curtsy and so did Madame Douvaine standing next to her.
“Both of you, very beautiful indeed,” He smiled at Madame Douvaine. she blushed and gave a laugh.
A tapping sound alerted them at the string quartet was about to begin. Mr. Byers looked at her, his brown raised.
“You do mean to keep your promise do you not? You promised me the first two dances,” He said.
“I always keep my word,” she said, being a little bit sassy.
“I am glad to hear it.” He put his hand out to her and she rested hers on top of his.
As he escorted her to the middle of the marble ballroom floor, she could tell that all eyes were on her. She could hear whisperings. Who is she? Why does Mr. Byers dance with her? But she held her head up high, trying to not pay attention.
Eleanor Dawson was in the arms of a gentleman on the ballroom floor next to them as they all lined up to partake in the first dance. Mr. Mason Byers stood across from Katrina, looking directly at her.
The music started, and Mr. Mason Byers and she started the dance, touching hands and turning around in a circle, before then moving around their neighbours and back to each other. This was a common first dance and she was having such a fantastic time. For a moment, she lost herself in the eyes of Mr. Byers. It was as though they were the only two people in the ballroom. To her hearts delight, he only had eyes for her. His gaze never wavered and his smile never faded. she felt a moment as they danced and it gave her a sense of pure elation.
When the dance ended, they again danced the second dance together. It was then that she could hear the commotion and whisperings louder. People wondered why Mr. Byers would dance two dances with the same girl, especially one that was not of nobility. As this commotion grew, she was becoming more and more aware of it, and she began to grow nervous.
Katrina was glad when the dance was finally over. Mr. Mason Byers took her hand and led her back to her employers.
“Thank you, Miss Proctor, now I must go make myself a worthy host and speak to the guests. I hope to dance again before the night is over,” He said, then bowed and walked away.
“That was wonderful child. You looked absolutely ravishing dancing with Mr. Byers. You truly look like you belong together,” Madame Douvaine said quietly to her.
“Nonsense. We are just friends.” she said trying to sound convincing, but she knew that her heart was beating fast and that wasn't what happened with a friend.
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“This gentleman wishes to meet your actress's acquaintance,” A lady stepped forward. She recognized her as the woman Madame Douvaine had been playing cards with lately.
“Yes, of course.”
“Sir Ross Harris, may I introduce you to my lovely friend Madame Douvaine and her husband Mr. Douvaine, and her actress Miss Katrina Proctor.”
“I am delighted to meet you both,” He bowed. He was young about the same age as Mr. Mason Byers. But he had blonde hair and blue eyes, and wasn't at all bad to look at. He even had a genuine smile.
“A pleasure to meet your acquaintance,” she said with a curtsy.
“Miss Proctor, if I may be so bold to claim you for the next dance?” He said.
Katrina was shocked. She didn't think that anyone would ask her to dance and that she would only have the few dances with Mr. Mason Byers. How could she refuse?
“I would be delighted,” she said.
As soon as the music stopped, Sir Ross Harris took her arm and led her out to the dance floor. Once again, she felt like she was being watched. As she glanced around the room, she could see women looking at her with strange looks on their face ranging from anger to disgust. They were whispering amongst each other. she quickly looked away and looked at her dance partner, trying to avoid the gossip. The music started and she danced with Ross, but he was not the last.
After him, another gentleman asked for her hand and then another and another, all of them young and handsome. Katrina did not know what was happening. But after 10 or so dances she needed to take a small break. She made her way to the refreshment table.
“I don't know who she is but I hear that she is of low station.”
“No! Does Mr. Byers know? Why would she be invited to such an event?”
“The gentleman should be warned before more ask for her hand in a dance.”
The women were whispering to each other, but not quietly.
Katrina stood on the grand marbled dance floor shaking like a leaf. she knew that all eyes were on her. The whisperings of gossip reached her ears, causing them to burn. What was she doing at Mr. Byers Estate? She did not belong, they whispered.
These fine ladies and gentlemen of this society would be right in their words.
The heat rose in her cheeks and she could no longer take the burning sensation of their words and eyes. To her right was the grand veranda just off the ballroom. Quietly, she rushed toward it.
Cold air hit her face as soon as she stepped out beyond the opened doors. Only then could she breathe again. she gasped, feeling as though her corset was tighter than it actually was.
“A fine night,” a deep voice said.
She turned and looked up into the face of the most gorgeous man she had ever seen, and known, Mr. Byers. A lock of dark hair fell over his brow and she itched to push it away.
“Mr. Mason Byers, I...”
“Please, how many times have she asked you to call me Mason,” he grinned.
“Mr. Mason Byers... I apologize; it is just that...” but as she spoke his brows furrowed together in concern.
“What is it, Katrina?” he asked, standing there in his stiff dress clothes that were fine and elegant. It only made him look even taller than his six-foot height.
“Everyone is looking at me,” she said.
“Then let them look,” his lips curled into that sideways grin that she had come to admire. “It is not like you to care what society thinks of you, Katrina.
“I am not used to being looked at and talked about in such a way. It is unsettling.”
“I understand. Perhaps a stroll in the gardens will bring back some calm. Then you can go back inside and enjoy yourself,” He said.
“Yes, perhaps you are right,” she said.
He put out his arm and she enveloped her arm around his. They walked down the steps to the lighted garden. There were many couples walking the paths quietly talking. The music from inside spilled out of the open doors and down to the garden.
“You have been dancing quite a bit. I don't think you have had one dance without a partner,” Mr. Mason Byers said.
“Yes, that was surprising,” she said.
“Why should that surprise you? You look stunning. Men are clamouring to be at your side.”
“They are not.”
She realized that they were walking under a long tunnel, it was an arbour that went on and on with vines and flowers on top of it.
“Katrina, you are radiant and beautiful and you don't even know it. Men are giving you all the attention tonight, even more so than Mary Benton whose party and ball this is in honour of. All eyes are on you because you are beautiful. In truth, I am feeling jealous. When
I saw you in the arms of Sir Ross Harris, I could not contain myself. It was all that she could do to stop myself from taking you from him. It is just as I felt when seeing you with Andrew Davis.”
“Jealous? Really?”
“Yes, in that moment I wanted you to be mine and no one else.”
He loomed over her and in one swift movement, his arm went around her back and he pulled her to him. His lips landed on her, in a sweet and passionate kiss. A soft moan escaped her mouth. She could not believe this was happening. So many beautiful colours flashed in her mind as he kissed her.
“Excuse me.” A woman gasped.
Mr. Mason Byers let go of her. They both looked with shock as they saw Eleanor Dawson standing at the opening of the arbour tunnel. Her hands were on her hips.
“Mr. Mason Byers! I came to tell you that it was time for you to make the toast. But see that you are busy with... well... shameful.”
Her words stung her. Katrina went from feeling complete euphoria from his kiss to feeling complete embarrassment.
“Apologize for your words, Eleanor Dawson. Do it now,” he said in a stern voice.
“I will not.” she turned on her heels and stomped away.
Katrina tried to fight back tears as her eyes watered over.
“Do not pay any attention to her words.”
“I must go inside,” she said moving past him as quickly as she could.
“Katrina, wait...”
But she did not wait and she did not answer him. she continued moving quickly through the garden and into the house. Katrina did not go inside the ballroom. How could she? Instead she went straight up to her room. She knew that Eleanor Dawson would be telling everyone what she had seen and she would be marked as a loose woman. It was exactly what they expected from her. She could not go back into that room.
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The next morning, she and Adeline took breakfast in their apartment suite. She kept asking her why she disappeared from the ball, but she refused to tell her, simply saying that she had a headache. But Adeline knew her well and she knew that something else was going on and that it concerned Mr. Byers. But she was not going to pry and Katrina was thankful for that.
An Alone and Destitute Girl (#3, the Winds of Misery Victorian Romance) (A Family Saga Novel) Page 14
