Chapter 18

Everybody in the house was excited to attend the lavish party that Lord and Lady Pembroke were hosting, but Lady Hillsfolk stayed home instead, wanting to be close to her ailing mother-in-law, Tabitha.

The sound of a chess match softly filled the room. Though he was becoming older, James still had a sharp mind, strategizing over the chessboard as he faced off against Benedict. Over the years, the two had formed a friendly rivalry, with each encounter being a test of cunning and tactics.

James remarked, a cunning smirk playing on his lips, "Your move, Benedict. Don't take the whole night now, or we'll lose the opportunity to have some quiet time without the kids around."

With a chuckle, Benedict studied the board with his keen eyes. "James, please be patient. A good plan requires patience. Additionally, I'm relishing this unique opportunity for peace of mind before the celebrations start."

The family was busy making preparations upstairs in the meantime. Glamorous in a rich emerald-green dress that framed her elegant form, Harriet fiddled with her pearl necklace in front of the mirror. Perfectly groomed in a black tailcoat, Harry stood next to her, giving her a comforting grin.

"Harriet, you look amazing," Harry remarked, admiring her.

With a smile of her own, Harriet temporarily forgot her earlier concerns about Andrew. "Many thanks, Harry. You do an excellent job of cleaning up yourself."

Peggy was working with Marianne on the last details of her outfit across the hall. Even though she was still pale from her recent sickness, Marianne looked stunning in a delicate lavender gown. Ever the vivacious person, Peggy was unable to control her excitement.

"Marianne, you look wonderful," Peggy said, her eyes gleaming with happiness. "Andrew won't be able to look away from you."

Marianne grinned, but there was a trace of nervousness in her eyes. "I'm grateful, Peggy. All I want is to feel strong enough to enjoy the evening."

Andrew, wearing a black suit, entered the room after gently tapping on the door. "Marianne, are you ready?" he asked in a soft voice.

With a nod, Marianne inhaled deeply. "Yes."

Ruth and Rose were alreadydownstairs, their pink and light blue gowns delightfully contrasting with one another. Their joy was evident as they conversed animatedly.

"This evening is going to be fantastic!" Rose exclaimed, her eyes gleaming. "I'm eager to dance."

"I am, too," Ruth replied with a big smile. "It has been far too long since we held a formal ball."

Warm yet forceful in her expression, Lady Hillsfolk addressed the family as they gathered in the grand entryway. "Enjoy yourselves. And please look after Marianne—she is still recuperating."

Reaching out, Andrew grasped her hand. "Lady Hillsfolk, we will. Take care of yourself."

The family bid farewell to one another and departed from Hills estate, arriving at the Pembrokes' opulent ballroom in carriages. There was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air, and the trip was full of animated discussions and laughter.

The ballroom was already a bright, elegant spectacle when they arrived. The spotless floors were illuminated brilliantly by crystal chandeliers, and laughter and music filled the air. The room was filled with elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen, their discussions mingling into a beautiful hum.

Anxious to get involved in the celebrations, Rose and Ruth soon found partners and swept onto the dance floor, their laughter mingling with the music. Hand in hand, Harriet and Harry navigated the throng, greeting friends and strangers as they went.

Feeling a little overwhelmed by the busy atmosphere, Marianne positioned herself next to Andrew. Seeing her discomfort, he smiled reassuringly.

"Should we find a peaceful area to stand for a bit?" he proposed.

Marianne gave a thankful nod. "That sounds ideal."

They discovered a tiny nook with a view over the dance floor as they made their way to the far corner of the room.

Andrew leaned against the wall and looked out over the assembly. He said, "It's quite a turnout."

With her gaze trailing the dancers, Marianne nodded. "Indeed, it is. It's beautiful to watch everyone having a good time."

Harry and Harriet had made some new acquaintances nearby, and they were having a great time chatting.

Warmly greeting their hosts, Lord and Lady Pembroke, Harriet said, "So good to see you. The ballroom appears amazing."

Lord Pembroke grinned widely, a tall man with a cheerful manner. "I'm grateful, Lady Harriet. We are really happy to see you all here. You look amazing this evening, may I add."

Harry shook Lord Pembroke's hand. "It is a lovely event. You have outdone yourselves."

Lady Harriet saw Marianne and her brother standing on the sidelines as the evening wore on and the dancing music reached a lively peak. Though they made a striking couple, Harriet could not help but note the palpable distance and the unspoken tension between them. She smiled warmly as she walked up to them, determined to fix this.

"Andrew, Marianne," she yelled, sounding both upbeat and commanding. "How about you two dance together next time? You two are too beautiful to spend the entire evening on the sidelines."

Marianne's eyes widened slightly. "Oh, I'm not sure, Harriet," she nervously said. "I'm not sure if I could dance."

"That's not true," Harriet answered with an unshakable smile. "Dancing is healthy for you. In addition, an engaged couple is frequently seen dancing on these occasions.

Recognizing Marianne's hesitation, Andrew gave her a subdued but encouraging nod. "How about us, Marianne?"

Marianne nodded reluctantly and sighed as she was escorted onto the dance floor. The music started as they took their spots, and they started to move to the beat. Their first steps were ungainly, a little stiff in their motions. Andrew was disturbed by the tension he sensed in Marianne's body.

Andrew tried to calm things down with a quiet voice. "Marianne, I hope you are recovering. Isn't this a gorgeous evening?"

His eyes briefly met hers before she turned away. Her voice was flat as she added, "Andrew, I'm really not interested in any conversation at this moment. I had no choice but to attend the dance, even if I didn't want to. I had the impression that I must do this."

Her comments made Andrew's heart sink. She was trying to hide her misery, but he could see the strain in her eyes. He opened his lips to respond, but the impact of her words stopped him cold for a minute. Rather, his thoughts raced with worry and melancholy as he concentrated on guiding her through the dance.

Applause flooded the ballroom as the dance came to a close before he could gather his wits to reply. Marianne and Andrew walked back to the room's edge, where Harriet and Harry were waiting. Lady Harriet smiled at them, happiness glimmering in her eyes.

"You two looked beautiful together out there," Harriet said in a warm and sincere voice.

Marianne faked a grin, suppressing her feelings. She said, "Thank you, Harriet," in a quiet but courteous tone.

Harriet was a nice friend and had always been kind to her, so she had no excuse to be harsh.

Taking note of the residual tension, Andrew glanced at Harry. He squeezed Marianne's hand gently and whispered, "We'll be back in a moment," before he and Harry moved away.

Marianne and Harriet were left alone to observe the bustling scene surrounding them. Couples danced and socialized while the music played in the colorful ballroom. Ever astute, Harriet saw the faint strain in Marianne's grin and chose to shift the topic of conversation to something more lighthearted.

"It seems like Rose and Ruth are having a great time," Harriet observed, gesturing to the dance floor, where the two sisters were animatedly chatting with their dance partners. "They have been searching assiduously for compatible companions. Maybe they will have luck tonight."

Marianne grinned warmly as she watched Rose and Ruth. With a somewhat warmer tone, she concurred, saying, "They do look happy. I hope they discover what they're trying to find. They are both deserving of happiness."

With a sigh of relief at Marianne's more sincere face, Harriet grinned. "They most definitely do. Ruth is searching for someone who has a strong interest in the arts, while Rose has been talking about finding a companion who shares her love of books."

Marianne nodded, her mind briefly taking a break from her own problems. "They are both such ardent people. It's amazing to witness their optimism."

While observing the dance floor, Harriet made the decision to bring up a more private subject. "I hope you are aware of how much we all appreciate you, Marianne. Feel free to chat to me about anything at all if you're having trouble."

For a split second, Marianne's smile wavered, but she quickly collected herself. "Harriet, thank you. You're a great friend, and I sincerely value your care. I guess I'm just a little overwhelmed right now."

Reaching out, Harriet gave Marianne's hand a consoling squeeze. "That makes sense. Getting ready for a wedding can be very demanding. Never forget that you are not alone. All of us are here to help you."

Marianne nodded. "It means a lot to me, and I know that. I simply have to go one step at a time."

Andrew and Harry, meanwhile, managed to locate a private area in the ballroom where they could converse without being overheard. Andrew had a worried look on his face, thinking a lot about his earlier chat with Marianne.

With a hint of melancholy and despair in his voice, Andrew said, "She's not happy, Harry. She feels bound to all of this, like she has no choice."

Andrew felt Harry's comforting hand rest on his shoulder. "During the dance, I saw it in her eyes. It appeared as though she was attempting to hide her real emotions. Have you discussed it with her?"

Andrew scowled as he shook his head. "Not really. I didn't want to push her when she asked not to talk during the dance. However, I must find a way to communicate with her in order to learn what's truly upsetting her."

Harry gave a contemplative nod. "Giving her space is crucial, but you also need to let her know you're available. Maybe later on, when it's quieter, you can have an open discussion."

Andrew let out a sigh, his mind buzzing with ideas. "You're right. All I want is for her to feel encouraged rather than pushed."

Andrew redoubled his resolve as they headed back to Harriet and Marianne. In order to ensure that Marianne felt heard and appreciated, he had to figure out how to put things right.

When they got back, Harriet and Marianne were still talking.

With a smile, Harriet gazed up at the men approaching them. "Is everything all right?

Andrew smiled a little and nodded. "Yes, just needed a moment to clear our heads."

When the music changed to a softer melody, Harriet turned to face Harry, her eyes sparkling. "Shall we dance, my dear?"

With a smile, Harry grabbed her hand and ushered her to the dance floor. "It would be my pleasure."

Andrew stood next to Marianne as they joined the other couples, watching Harriet and Harry move sensually to the music. There was a brief but comfortable silence between them as the waltz's notes served as a calming background.

"Harriet has a great deal of affection for you," Andrew stated. "She wants to see you happy."

With her gaze fixed on the dance floor, Marianne nodded. "I know she does, and I am thankful for that as well. It's simply too much to process."

Andrew turned to face her, his eyes full of seriousness. "Marianne, please know that you have my support as well. Do not hesitate to let me know if there is anything you need to talk about or if something is bothering you."

With a mix of emotions in her eyes, Marianne raised her gaze to him. "I'm grateful, Andrew. I will remember that."

While the dance went on, Andrew and Marianne stayed at the room's edge, taking in the vibrant sight. Even though they had previously been at odds, they were beginning to recognize the need for open communication and support for one another.

As they danced with their partners, Rose and Ruth were having a great time across the ballroom, their faces beaming with delight. Peering over her shoulder, Harriet grinned at what she saw, feeling happy and proud of them.

Harry and Harriet finished the waltz and went back to join Andrew and Marianne.

Andrew turned to face Marianne, his eyes kind and friendly. "Marianne, are you up for dancing once more? This time, I swear to be a better fiancé."

After a little pause, Marianne nodded with a little smile. "Yes, Andrew, I'd like that."

The four of them headed for the dance floor after that. The couples started to step in time as the orchestra started playing a vibrant number. With a trained ease, Harry and Harriet danced with beautiful, flowing movements. Seeing Marianne was a little stiff at first, Andrew led her with confidence and gentleness, which helped her to loosen up.

Andrew looked at his cousins as they danced. Rose was definitely attracted to Francis, a charming young man with a deep interest in books, with whom she was dancing. Ruth was paired with Peter, a gifted artist who appreciated the arts as much as she did. The two sisters had a dazzling appearance, their faces beaming with joy.

Taking in Andrew's look, Harriet leaned in to have a little conversation with Harry. "Observe them, Harry. Ruth and Rose appear to have found amazing partners. Seeing them happy makes me very happy."

Harry smiled and nodded, his eyes crinkling. "It appears that they are truly enjoying themselves. For all of us, tonight is going well."

Andrew made the decision to talk to Marianne while the music was still playing. "Is something bothering you?"

Marianne's eyes softened as she raised her gaze to his. "There is too much to handle in this entire situation."

Andrew said, "I understand," in a sincere tone. "However, I want us to work as a unit and encourage one another. To me, it matters that you are happy."

With a slight smile spreading across her lips, Marianne nodded. "Yes, Andrew, I am aware. And you don't realize how much I appreciate it. For now, let's just enjoy this evening."

As they settled into a groove, they kept dancing, becoming more fluid in their moves. As the first awkwardness subsided, a developing sense of intimacy took its place. Andrew felt a ray of hope, thinking that they could develop a solid and encouraging bond with patience and time.

The ballroom was a hive of laughter and excitement around them. Harry and Harriet swayed sensually to the music, their smiles expressing their joy together. Rose and Francis were walking down the dance floor, their laughing interspersed with meaningful conversation. Ruth and Peter, on the other hand, moved in perfect unison as though they were engrossed in their own universe.

The couples' speed slowed as the evening progressed and the music changed to a more romantic melody. A cozy ambiance was created in the space by the warm light that the chandeliers cast over it.

* * *

The family gathered by the entryway as the evening was coming to an end, getting ready to depart. They wished farewell with cordial handshakes and sincere gratitude from Lord and Lady Pembroke.

"I appreciate your presence," Lady Pembroke remarked, her eyes glimmering with happiness. "Having you here is a pleasure, as always."

With a smile, Harriet forgot her prior worries for a time. "It was our joy. I'm grateful for such a fantastic evening."

A cozy silence descended upon them as they rode back to Hills estate. Clearly tired, Marianne sat back in her chair and closed her eyes. With his attention still focused on their last chat, Andrew observed her.

With a look of relief, Lady Hillsfolk welcomed them back to the estate in the foyer. "Welcome back. Did you enjoy yourself?

"Yes, we did," Andrew softly answered. "That evening was amazing."

Lady Hillsfolk stared at Marianne, her eyes softening. "You seem worn out, my love. Now go and get some rest. We will discuss in the morning."

Marianne smiled a little and nodded. "Mother, thank you. Good night to all of you.

The family went to their rooms, but Andrew stayed for a while, thinking about Marianne. In order to make sure she felt heard and supported, he decided to talk to her the following day. He was worried, but he was also determined to find a way to put things right as he made his way to his room.