"At the lawn picnic, you'll have to eat with perfect civility," Maxwell instructed. They had been going over rules and etiquette for the past hour since she had returned from the boutique.
Jane put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Maxwell, I've got this. I won't stuff my mouth, not that the portions are big enough to do that anyway. I won't pick my teeth, and I won't stab Drake with a fork. Even if that last one sounds tempting."
"No stabbing. At least at this event," he joked. Jane hoped he was joking. "And how do you address Bertrand?"
"Outloud? Your Grace."
"Right! Wait, how do you address him not outloud?"
"Anything else I should know?" she asked sweetly.
"Well, in case it comes up, his full title is Duke Bertrand Beaumont of Ramsford. Also known as Duke Ramsford." When there was a knock at the door, Maxwell went to open it. "Speak of the devil!"
Bertrand stepped in. "Please do not refer to me as the devil. How is it coming along?"
"Great!" he replied. "We were just about to go over her entrance, and how to get in and out of a car without a wardrobe malfunction."
Jane put her hand up. "I know this one! Adjust skirts before moving, and keep your knees and feet together while swiveling out. I learned that early on, and the hard way."
But Bertrand's angry expression showed he was less than impressed. "Anyone can look that up on the internet. We're asking you to be a lady. Something you quite obviously are not. Maxwell, I hope you don't mind if I take the liberty of testing Jane myself."
"Pretty sure it doesn't actually matter whether I-"
"Jane," Bertrand interrupted and walked towards Jane. "Pretend we're meeting for the first time. Hello, it's a pleasure to meet you, Lady Jane Warren."
She put on her smile. "The pleasure is all mine, Duke Ramsford." She dipped down into a quick curtsy and Bertrand took her hand with his right hand and kissed the back of it. When she stood fully again she pointed at his hands. "You used the wrong hand. It's supposed to be the left. Otherwise it's an insult."
Bertrand smiled proudly. "How very observant of you."
'That you think I'm trash? Yeah, doesn't take a genius.'
"I did come for another reason. The limo is ready downstairs to take us to Honeyhill Downs."
The three were soon on their way to the derby, and Bertrand used as much of the time to teach Jane as possible. "How you come across to the Cordonian people is very important. The press at this event will make or break you. What they write, the people read. And if the press likes you, the people like you and that will make it easier to convince them you're worthy of being Prince Liam's bride, and queen."
Jane nodded, but her gaze was out the window. She knew she would never get tired of seeing this scenery. She just hoped it would last longer than everyone assumed it would for her. "What kinds of questions should I be expecting?"
"It really depends which reporter is doing the asking. Typically they start with easy questions: where you're from, who you are. That sort of thing. They'll ask you different, even more questions, than the other ladies since you're not known to anyone."
Maxwell jumped in. "People want to know and understand your story, so think about how you want them to see you."
"So, be myself?"
Bertrand scoffed. "Oh, heavens no. Be a future queen who loves Cordonia and acts with grace and poise. Be anything but yourself. Please. And for the love of all things good, any questions they ask you about Cordonian apples, take those very seriously."
"Apples? Why does that sound familiar?"
"It's our national fruit," Maxwell answered. "It's also one of our most important exports."
"How are you feeling about all of this," Bertrand asked, and Jane knew he didn't mean emotionally.
"A little like I want to throw up, but I'm fine."
"If you're going to be sick, have the decency to wait until you're outside the limo. It's a rental."
Maxwell leaned towards Jane and whispered, "don't worry. I have faith in you."
Too soon they arrived to the derby and she looked around at the crowds, seeing the large group of press nearby. "This is...actually pretty exciting. I feel like I'm at a fair."
"A fair?" Bertrand growled. "This is no county fair. There are no weighing of pigs, no food eating contests. This is the epitome of outdoor events for the social season.
Maxwell squeezed her arm reassuringly. "You'll be great. This is your stop, my lady."
She looked at him quickly. "You're coming with me, right? Like last night?"
"No, we don't need to be interviewed."
Jane pushed down her fear, but felt it coming back ever so slowly. "Okay...so where do I go after I speak with the press?"
"The suitors have their own section. Just keep going down the red carpet and there will be pink tents further down. You'll be great."
Jane took a moment, a deep breath, and got out of the car in a very ladylike (and not at all Googled) way. She was immediately swarmed by reporters, nearly getting hit in the face with their microphones. 'Easy questions first, hardball questions later. She plastered on a smile, making it as genuine as possible.
"Over here!" a reporter called out. "Donald Brine from the Cordonia Broadcasting Centre. We've heard there was a new lady on the social scene! What's your name?"
"Lady Jane Warren from House Beaumont."
"We'd love to show our viewers the real story. Tell us about yourself!"
'Who am I? Really?' "I'm just a regular woman, like many out there. A girl from New York whose heart has led her to be swept up in the affairs of the nobility. So, maybe not too regular I suppose," she said with a sweet laugh.
"How's that going for you?"
"It feels like I'm living a fantasy. Every girl dreams of being a princess, and here I am with the chance."
The reporter nodded. "A fascinating spin. I've heard early rumours that you're Prince Liam's favourite. What is it that makes you stand out, do you think?"
"Honestly, I was his waitress."
"A real Cinderella story. Can I get a photo of you?"
She allowed a few of the photographers to snap some pictures of her as she tried to keep her face as normal as possible. If that was possible.
"The Everywoman sweeps the Derby red carpet," he proclaimed.
The interviews continued for a few more minutes, and with her nerves gone with the easier questions, Jane felt comfortable answering the deeper questions about Cordonia easily. She wanted to desperately be herself completely, but she knew she would have to be more composed. She thought to how Liam had acted with her at the masquerade before he recognized her. Polite, but friendly, and appealing.
As she reached the end of the red carpet, she shook her hands out and looked around. 'Maxwell said to look for the pink tents…' But for as far as she could see, there were no pink tents anywhere. She kept moving, looking around every now and then, as though taking in the sights but her heart began to race. There still didn't seem to be a familiar face. After a few more moments, she neared a stable and she slipped inside, hoping someone who was working the event would know where to go.
Jane looked around and found that it was empty, save for one horse. She smiled and approached the stall, but the horse retreated deeper.
"Hey you. Are there any humans here?" She jumped when the stable door slammed shut with a gust of wind. She spun back to the horse who kicked at its door and began to charge towards her, spooked by the door.
"Easy!" she called out. "Easy boy!"
But the horse continued charging, rearing right up in front of her.
Jane stumbled backwards, falling into a stack of hay, when someone darted between her and the horse.
"Whoa there," a gentle voice said. "Whoa."
Jane looked up, her eyes wide in shock to see Drake standing there. His fingers were tangled in the horse's mane as he gently pulled its head down. He locked eyes with the animal and they stood like that for a moment.
"Nothing to worry about, big guy," he said, in a tone Jane was surprised he had. "I'll get this lady out of here for you." He led the horse back to its stall and made sure it was fastened properly before heading back towards Jane. "You okay, Warren?"
"You...saved me."
"Actually I was saving the horse," he said, jabbing a thumb back towards the now contended creature. "These Derby runners are basically athletes. Can't risk one of them getting hurt by trampling a stray human."
Jane frowned. "What are you even doing here?"
He sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "Look...the truth is, Liam asked me to keep an eye on you and make sure you didn't end up in the wrong place." He gestured towards her. "Like that pile of hay. Good thing I agreed to it. You should be getting back to the racetrack, and your adoring fans."
"I'd love to, but...I'm lost. Clearly. Maxwell told me to look for the pink tents, but I didn't see any out there."
Drake shook his head. "That's because they're actually white tents, next to the starting line. Can't miss them. Good luck," he said, before starting away.
"Wait." She stood finally, wiping off the hay from her outfit. "You're not coming with me?"
He let out a laugh. "And hang out with the suitors? No, I'm meeting Liam. He has his own private tent. We hang out there every year at the derby, getting some drinks, placing bets on the horses. It's actually a lot of fun."
"Well in that case, I'd love to join you."
His eyes widened in surprise. "Wait, what? No, I…"
"You said yourself it's a lot of fun. And I'm fairly certain it's more fun than whatever is waiting for me at the tent with the other ladies. Take me with you."
Drake looked back at the horse as though it would support him. It didn't make a sound. "I don't think you're supposed to…"
"Please?"
He stared at her for a moment before shaking his head in defeat. He led her through the grounds in silence before stopping in front of a large enclosed tent. "He's in here. I'll go grab some beers for us."
Jane stepped inside and spotted Liam staring intently at the racetrack, assumedly analyzing it for his upcoming bet with Drake. She smiled and watched him for another moment before approaching him. "You're very deep in thought. What's on your mind?"
He turned slowly, but started when he realized it was her. "Jane! I was just...honestly, I was just thinking about you. All of the ladies, actually. I was wondering where you were in the stands…"
"Well, lucky for you that I found you first."
"You're full of unexpected surprises. How did you manage to find me?"
"Your best friend decided to break some rules for us."
Liam grinned. "Drake's never been one to follow the rules. It's likely why he's my best friend. I seem to like having rule breakers around me."
She smiled and looked down at her shoes, avoiding his eyes. "I had a funny conversation with him earlier. He said...you asked him to look out for me. It was very thoughtful of you."
"I'm often thinking of you."
"But I hope you don't think I'm not cut out for all of this, that I need someone to take care of me out here."
"Jane." He stepped towards her and took her hands in his. "I want to take care of you. I know I said I can't help you much in terms of how the people see you, but in these small things, I must feel like I'm supporting you." Movement in the corner of his eye caught his attention. "Oh, they're leading the horses out now!"
Jane walked with Liam to the edge of the tent to watch the horses parade out. Some pranced, eager to start the race. "They're beautiful. I've always loved that about them."
"I agree. These aren't show ponies, but they definitely have their own form of beauty and grace."
Before Jane could reply, Drake entered the tent holding three beers. He passed them out to the others and looked between them. "Hope I'm not interrupting anything."
She shook her head and took a quick sip of the beer. "Not at all. We're happy to see you. At least I am."
"Really."
"And you're just in time," Liam said, pulling him closer to the front of the tent. "It's about to start. I say Twilight-Dash will take the crown."
Drake nodded thoughtfully. "That's a pretty good prediction, unless you've been studying the stats. My money's on Marabelle's Dream."
Liam turned to him with a coy grin. "Shall we bet on that?"
"The usual, then?"
Jane looked between the two. "What's the usual?"
"Ever since Drake and I were children, we would bet each other push-ups."
"Not just any push-ups," Drake corrected. "Push-ups while the other person sits on your back."
Jane snorted, but covered it with a polite cough. "That's so cute."
"It's...rugged," Drake said, his face straight. "And very manly."
"Very tough," Liam agreed.
Jane held up her hands in defeat. "Yes, of course. How silly of me."
"Although," Liam continued. "I believe we should make one change. It would be awfully rude to leave Jane out of this. Maybe she should be the one to sit on the loser's back."
She saluted dramatically. "Always happy to help! Though I think it will be easier with me on someone's back rather than each other."
A shotgun sounded the start of the race, and Drake and Liam turned their attention to the horses, their eyes glued to the track.
Liam cheered. "Twilight-Dash takes the lead!"
Drake shook his finger at him, his eyes still not leaving the horses. "It's not over yet. Go Marabelle! You're gaining."
Jane leaned forward with anticipation. "They're neck and neck!" She jumped up and down a bit, gripping Liam's arm. "It's so close!"
Drake let out a whoop as Marabelle crossed the finish line first. "Ha! I knew it! Yes!" He clapped before turning to Liam. "And now, I believe you're up."
"I suppose I best get to it," he replied, putting on a sad puppy face.
"Oh no," Drake said, shaking his head. "If you think I'm going to bow out gracefully and let you win, you're dead wrong."
Liam clapped him on the shoulder. "That's one of my favourite things about you, Drake. You don't let me get away with anything. Well, it would be a shame to get these clothes all sweaty…" He grinned and snuck a glance at Jane as he pulled off his blazer and shirt. He did a quick stretch before dropping down to start the pushp-ups. He looked up after a moment of nothing happening to see Jane staring at him. "Jane, I believe this is where you come in?"
"Right, yep. I'm all over this." She shoved her drink into Drake's hand. "Hold my beer." She cleared her throat and sat down on Liam's back as gracefully as she could, putting all of her weight onto him.
"I barely feel anything," Liam quipped.
"I can get on there too," Drake piped in. "Get you to really do some work."
But Liam started before Drake could sit down, counting under his breath. "And ten!" He waited for Jane to stand up before standing himself and putting on his shirt. "Never let it be said that I've ever backed out of a bet."
"And you lose all the time, so at least you're a good sport," Drake teased.
Liam rolled his eyes but his eyes were still lit up. "I must've gone very off track at some point in my life to have you as my best friend."
Drake put a hand on his own chest. "It's my duty, and profound honour to keep you humble. Which has been very difficult the last few days with all these gorgeous women chasing after you."
He nodded, and some of the light left his eyes as he glanced at Jane. "Speaking of which, we'll be expected at the next part of the social barrage: the lawn picnic."
"I guess that's my cue," Jane said as took a few steps towards the entrance of the tent. "I should probably get over there. Bertrand and Maxwell are probably looking for me."
Drake looked between the two of them, and sighed. "I can take a hint. I'll go see where they are." He glanced at Jane once more before leaving the tent.
Once they were alone, Liam turned to Jane and took her hand. "Thank you for coming. I'm not exaggerating when I say that you made my day. It was wonderful to be able to spend time with you, and my best friend."
"You made mine too," she said softly. "I had a lot of fun."
Liam kissed the back of her hand. "You have no idea how glad I am to hear you say that."
Someone cleared their throat from outside, and Drake's voice came floating through. "I just saw Maxwell run out to get the car brought around. The ladies are a few tents down, and they're all heading down to the lawn picnic. I can make sure Jane gets there."
Liam smiled and let Jane go. "Until we meet again."
She smiled and joined Drake outside. After they had walked a little bit away, she looked up at Drake. "Thank you for letting me crash your...bro-time. I know that's usually something just to two of you do," Jane said gently. "You could have said no, so I appreciate it."
"Could I have said no to you?" he retorted. He glanced down at her and rubbed the back of his neck. "I knew Liam would really like the time with you. But...thank you, I guess. You could have just asked me to leave. You could've had all of that time alone with him, but you wanted me there too. Why?"
She shrugged. "You're his best friend. If I want to get to know him, I should get to know you too. You've known him the longest, and he trusts you more than anyone else. Yes, I have to impress his parents, and all of Cordonia, but I also have to get you to like me, too." She stopped when she saw a few of the ladies she could recognize. "Drake." Jane looked up at him and waited for him to look back at her. "I want you to know that I don't want to get between you two. I have no intention of taking up all of his time. And if there's ever a time when I'm convincing him to sneak off with me, again, but it ruins any plans with you, I won't let him."
He stared down at her before his usual frown appeared. "And it's that attitude that's not going to get you far. But...for what it's worth...thanks." He nodded towards the other ladies. "You should get going."
Jane nodded. "Thanks for making sure I didn't get lost. Again. And...thanks again for saving me."
"I know I can be a jerk, but I'd have to really be something to let a horse trample a girl. Especially a girl my best friend likes."
She smiled, and felt her face redden. 'You already know he likes you. Why get embarrassed about it now? Because Drake knows too?' "Well, thanks anyway." She made her way to the other ladies and walked towards Olivia who was speaking with Kiara and Penelope.
"I can't believe we didn't even get to see the prince at all," Olivia said sadly.
"He'll be at the lawn party for sure," Penelope said soothingly.
Olivia looked over her shoulder and noticed Jane just behind them. "Well, look who showed up fashionably late. The term does have its limits, you know."
"Jane!" Hana fell in step with her and gave her arm a quick squeeze. "Where were you?"
She grinned, and knew it would be best to keep her cards close. "Oh, I got...lost."
Kiara frowned and almost looked sad for her. "It's only the second day and you already can't keep up?" She clicked her tongue as she shook her head.
"I know it can be overwhelming," Hana said, ignoring Kiara's comment. "Especially with how the press swarmed all of us."
'That's not exactly why I look flustered…' Jane smiled politely and decided to change the subject. "You look stunning as always, Hana."
"Oh!" She looked down at herself. "I feel like I lack variety sometimes. I don't have nearly as many dresses as I would like." She linked arms with Jane as they continued across the grass. "Are you ready for what's next?"
"What's that?"
Hana grinned. "The real party!"
