When the Queen named you Diamond of the season, your parents had been elated. You were the eldest sibling, the first daughter. You were to set the mould for your younger sisters. Lords and Earles flocked to you. Ladies wanted to be you. Not a kinder word could be said about you. If your name was in the gossip sheets, it was only ever to comment on how desirable you were and speculating on which lucky gentleman would take your hand in marriage.

One day you accompany your father to an acquaintance‘s estate, a man who had recently come into Dukedom and married from the ton last season. When you arrive, he has a guest, a man in his late thirties, groomed beard and mustache. He walks with a limp and a cane, dressed much more casually than his Grace and your father. “Lord Wolverton.” His Grace greets. “Miss Wolverton.” You bow, greeting his Grace. “This is my old colleague, John Price.” You learn John used to be captain in the Royal army before he was severely injured. He was compensated with land and enough money to run a modest estate. “Miss Wolverton, my wife is in the next room. I am sure she would delight in some company.” You nod and smile, eyes lingering on the kind-looking man before you exit the room.

When business matters have been discussed, you are on the way home with your father. “His Grace’s friend.. Mr. Price was agreeable.” You say, chewing on your lip.

Your father scoffs. “A kind fellow. Not one I would ever want any of my daughters to marry,” he says. “Mr. Price is not fit enough for a Diamond.” he decides, ending the conversation.

By chance meeting, you and your handmaid run into Mr. Price while out in the town. You two strike up conversation, everything flowing naturally. He is so unlike any Lord or Earle you’ve spoken to. These meetings continue until too many eyes begin to peep, too many ears overhearing.

The two of you decide to meet in secret now. You know the risk, but you don’t care. “Miss Wolverton,” John greets, walking into your home’s garden in the middle of the night.