AN: I see that are plenty of people are view the story and I even have my first favorite and follow, that is so exciting! I hope to see some reviews to know what you all are thinking: even it's one sentence saying that you like it or you don't and why, maybe even predictions on what you think will happen or should happen.

"I'm proud of you, Bella. I could hardly tell you were nervous at all." Esme says while helping me get out of the fancy clothing from earlier. "But remember your carriage next time; you looked timid, and the upper class women are like sharks. They will eat you alive if they smell fear."

At that I have to laugh, because they do seem rather viscous. "I became acquainted with a Rose Hale tonight."

"Oh, really? I have to say that I'm a bit surprised." She says while brushing my hair.

At my confused look she continues. "I mean no offense to you, it's just that young Miss Hale tends to be on their end of things. She is what your father dreams of you becoming; a trophy daughter of sorts. She's…"

"The definition of wealth and beauty." I finish for her, repeating my first sentiments.

Esme nods letting out the breath she had drawn. "If you really want to impress your father, stick with her, she can give you field practice."

"Does that mean I do not have to continue my French lessons?" I ask hopefully, looking at Esme through the vanity mirror.

"Non, ma chérie. While Rose can correct your behavior and speech in the setting itself, you still need to have something to contribute other than your presence. You don't want to be one of those pushover women who are seen and not heard, do you?" She continues when she sees the conformation she's looking for on my face. "You will continue to study music, dance, fine works of literature, and be well verse in foreign languages."

I groan and lethargically climb into the giant bed and drown myself in the covers.

Esme laughs lightly and kisses me on the head. "Bonne nuit et fais de beaux rêves, ma Bella."

"Dors bien Esme." I say.

She turns out the light and quietly exits the room, letting the door close with a soft click.

Drifting in out of sleep, I hear the door creak open. Not conscious enough to question it, I continue to fade in and out of dreams of this supposed other daughter. I feel the feeling of being watched, before what sounds like rustling of fabric, and then the door being shut. In what had to have been the times I was fully asleep I saw images of a girl with short hair in disarray being tortured in a dark, dingy room. Screams and chains clanging followed by maniacal laughter filled the air, leaving behind an aura of sheer distress.

The next morning I wake up to a grey cloud cover blocking the warm rays that greet me every morning. With the words of those gossiping ladies still echoing in my head, I get out of bed to find yet another outfit already waiting for me in its usual place. I think I will try to put together my own attire today. Opening the rosewood bureau, I am instantly overwhelmed with the array of styles, colors, and textures. I have never really felt the need to look in here since I have always been given what to wear. Deciding to just be thankful for whoever takes the time to coordinate all of this for me, I concede to wearing what has already been placed out for me.

I go through my long day of lessons, lunch, more lessons, and dinner with father and limited conversation. The only conversation we make with each other is my progress in my lessons and his work. I mention my becoming acquainted with Rose Hale at the tea, and with that he is thrilled…well, what appears to be thrilled by his standards of expression. After dinner we sit in the living room with father smoking his pipe and reading the newspaper. I read the Adventures of Sherlock Holmes: A Scandal in Bohemia written by Arthur Conan Doyle. I know it is not typical ladylike literature, but I have never really been fond of the notion that men should be allowed to know about action and adventure while us women are to know about romance and the fine arts. I just like to be well rounded, and besides, between the mystery stylist and this supposed other daughter I know there are some mysteries going on here, and I am determined to solve them.

French Translations: Non ma chérie- No my sweet or darling (really just a term of endearment) Bonne nuit et fais de beaux rêves- Good night and sweet dreams, Dors bien- Sleep well

AN: I have never actually read The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes but here's to Sherlock Bella!