Saturday night arrived sooner than anyone anticipated. The week had been a busy one. Kate had spent every afternoon, with Jack and Leopold learning to ride and was surprised she was enjoying it and getting the hang of it faster than she thought possible. Margaret was frantically preparing for the upcoming wedding as well as contacting only the best families in London for them to visit in a week's time, making the social circles and introducing Kate. Millard had rarely been seen. Kate had been curious when he tended to lock the door of his study, for hours on end. Leopold informed her this was not unusual, he hated to be disturbed when dealing with business. It amazed Kate, that Leopold didn't seem to have much of a concern for his family's fortune, or maybe he did and just didn't want her to worry. Leopold had been busy in his lab, working on his elevator, and was hoping to be able to patent it soon after the wedding. Janet had been quiet. She had listened to her mother, and stayed out of trouble, but tonight was the ball at Lord Spencer's and it had been on everyone's minds. No one knew what to expect, but they dressed in their finest and a carriage departed Balinor shortly after 7, to take them to Westlake Manor.

Once they were off Janet headed down to the stables, all the other servants had gathered in the kitchen, for their dinner and gossip. She wanted no part of it. She knew Jack would still be in the stables. Next to Otis, he worked harder than anyone at Balinor. She found him with Mordrid, and she managed to pull herself up onto the bottom half of the stable door, "Why aren't you eating with the others?"

"Maggie wouldn't shut up about her new beau, and her voice is so high pitched and irritating."

"So you thought you would bother me?"

"I am here to keep you company."

"I am almost finished, actually. I was looking forward to Cook's Sheppard pie, and I might possibly head into the village to have a pint with some of the local lads."

"Oh."

"I'd invite you along, but it isn't any place for a lady's personal companion." He teased.

"You know, Jack, she is hardly a lady. I have learnt a lot about Miss Katherine this past week. She is an odd one."

"I am sure she would say the same about you."

"She likes to wear trousers and where she comes from it's allowed. And she has had a job. And look at her hair, and the way she talks. She hardly ever sits up straight. She told me, her family has no money."

"So what? Leopold loves her."

"What do you think of her?"

"She is pleasant enough, fairly attractive, good sense of humor, intelligent. But it really doesn't matter what you and I think, does it?" He could tell by the look on her face, she had something on her mind.

"Of course you are right, but I think there is more to Miss McKay than meets the eye. She didn't bring anything from her home. Isn't that weird?"

"Give it a rest, Janet. Nothing you do will change the fact that Leopold is marrying her in two weeks time."

"You really think I would do something to sabotage the wedding?"

"I wouldn't put it past you."

"I wouldn't. I am just curious."

"And as I recall, curiosity killed the cat."

"You are no fun. I am dying to know what will be going on tonight though. Aren't you?"

"No, I really haven't thought about it at all."

"Edgar and Leopold are hardly best of friends and Millicent will be there drooling over Leopold, no doubt."

"Much like you do?"

"Don't be stupid. I don't drool. I would love to be a fly on the wall tonight at that ball."

He was finishing up with Mordred and helped her off the door, "Don't you even think about going anywhere near that place, Janet."

They walked out of the stables, "Why would I be thinking of going there? I wouldn't be allowed in."

"The last time you were at Westlake spying, you got yourself into a hell of a lot of trouble."

"Believe me, I haven't forgotten. But I was a child then, and I now have more sense."

He rolled his eyebrows, "Sense. Let's see, I haven't seen much sense in the past few years of your adult life. Getting involved with that Captain was very sensible."

"Enough, we don't need to bring any of that up. I promise I won't do anything stupid."

"Right you aren't, you are coming up to dinner with me, and I will pass on the pint and you and I can play chess."

"Boring. You go hang out with the lads; I have plenty to do around here. I don't need you to baby-sit."

They had dinner together, and Jack saddled up Merlin, one of Leopold's horses. As he mounted the horse, he looked down at Janet who had come down to the stables to see him off, "I won't be long. Maybe when I get back, we can do something."

"Like what do you have in mind, Jack…and no chess."

"I think talking is quite a good idea." He felt awkward.

"Talking." She almost started to laugh.

This frustrated Jack, "Fine, do what you like. Maybe I will be long. Maybe I will find myself a lady friend for the evening."

As he started to ride off, Janet realized something she had never noticed before. Jack wanted to spend time with her as more than a friend. Could that be possible? She tried calling after him, "Jack, I didn't mean to make you cross. I would love to do something with you later."

But it was too late, he was already gone and out of earshot.

Janet went into the stables and to Guinevere. As she stroked her, she felt lonely. The rest of the staff was playing cards up in the kitchen, and Jack had suggested she join in. But ever since returning to Balinor, everyone treated her different. They didn't know the whole story, but they often talked behind her back. And she despised it. She had little hope of ever fitting in here again. Everything was so different now. She couldn't stay here. What harm would it do, if she rode over to Westlake and check out the party? It was a fairly warm evening, and it would be perfectly safe. She was quite capable of being very cautious and discreet. She went and got Guinevere's saddle and bridle. As she was fastening the saddle, she realized she wasn't properly attired for riding. And sidesaddle was out of the question. So she took her skirts and tucked them up into her undergarments and hoisted herself onto Guinevere's back. Then rode off into the night.



The ball was in full swing when Leopold's party arrived. It was fashionable to be late. As Kate took his arm he whispered in her ear, "We don't have to stay long."

She saw concern in his face, "Stop being so pessimistic. We just got here. And I am dying to meet Edgar. Where is the evil one?"

"Kate, this is serious. I suggest you avoid any contact with the man, unless you are accompanied by myself."

"Fine, then introduce me and let's get it over with."

Leopold's eyes drifted around the room, several people acknowledged him and glared at Kate, out of curiosity. He finally spotted Edgar and Edgar spotted him at the same time, making his way across the dance floor smiling. "Leopold, you finally made it." He looked at Kate, eyeing every inch of her, "And you must be Miss McKay. It is a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance." He took her hand and kissed the back of it. Kate smiled at him awkwardly and now understood what Leopold had told her about his smile. It was very weasel like. "I would be ever so pleased if I could be your first dance of the evening, Miss McKay. I am sure Leopold won't mind, in fact.." He turned to Leopold, "Millicent has been anxiously awaiting your arrival, and she gets tired easily and is resting in the study for a bit."

He looked at Kate, not wanting to leave her in Edgar's hands, "I am just fine, Leopold. You go on and see Millicent. It's one dance. I will join you in a minute."

She took Edgar's arm and headed out onto the dance floor. Leopold stood and watched them briefly; just by her facial expressions he could tell she was handling herself fine. He then went to the study, and when he opened the door was shocked at the woman who sat before him. She was pale, and sickly looking. Her eyes closed briefly, but at the sound of the door, they opened. A faint smile appeared on her face, "Leopold, it is so wonderful to see you." She held out her hand to him and he slowly moved across the room and took hold of it, leaning over her and kissing her cheek. He had not prepared himself to see her in such a state and the concern was obvious in his face. He pulled an armchair closer to her, and found himself staring at her.

"You are concerned with my appearance, I can tell. Really, I am doing a lot better. The doctor says I just need to stay off my feet as much as possible. The last few years in India were very hard on me. I never became accustomed to the food or the weather, you can't even imagine how glad I am to be home, and I know things will be fine. But enough, about all that, let me look at you. You are more handsome than I remember. If that is possible. And now you have chosen a wife. I am anxious to meet her. She must be incredibly special. I was concerned you were to never marry, and that would have been such a shame. I always knew you would make someone a wonderful husband. Never have I met a man so kind and compassionate, someone with so much respect for women." She was thinking about their years of courtship. It had been the 3 best years of her life. Leopold couldn't help but see the look on her face, remembering that he had been intended to marry her. There had never been a formal engagement; Leopold had ended the relationship before it was to be announced. Immediately Millicent had found solace in Edgar's arms and they were wed shortly after. He knew he had broken her heart, and now looking at her, he felt he was to blame for her present state. What if he would have married her? He was sure she would have still possessed the love of life, she once had. At balls, you could never get her off the dance floor. Everyone loved her. She made everyone smile. It broke his heart seeing her this way.

He didn't know what to say to her,

"I know what you are thinking. You feel you are to blame. But I made my own choices. Edgar has not been a bad husband. He takes care of Charlotte and myself, and he is extremely excited about this baby. I am not unhappy. I want this baby more than anything."

"Millie, with your health as it is, what is the possibility that you have a healthy child? I was told you have already had 2 miscarriages and a stillborn son. I feel Edgar is being selfish, using you in such a matter. This pregnancy cannot be helping matters."

"If it will make Edgar happy, it will be worth everything. You don't understand, Leopold. Maybe you will once you are married and Katherine is with child, and what it's like to go through this, and then having nothing to show. I must give Edgar a son."

He should never have mentioned it. It was causing her agitation and he now felt guilty for bringing the subject up.

She took hold of his hand, "I know you are concerned, but I am sure everything will be alright this time. I am home surrounded by people I love. I look forward to getting acquainted with Katherine. And wouldn't it be wonderful if she would have a baby soon. Our children could be friends. Edgar is finally willing to put aside his jealous notions, and he would like you and he to be friends."

"How can you believe that?"

"You need to give him a chance, Leopold. He is not the same man, I should know. I have lived with him for 10 years."

"I am not so sure I can give him a chance, but I will try for your sake. He has hurt to many people I care about. You included."

"He doesn't mean to hurt me. I truly believe he loves me."

Leopold knew she was only saying that to make herself believe it. From the brief encounter with Edgar so far, there was no change. He hated what had become of Millicent, and Edgar had no problem taking down as many people as he could to get what he wanted. Leopold wasn't so sure he knew what that was, possibly Balinor. But he would do everything in his power to stop him.



Edgar waltzed Kate around the room, and Kate noticed he kept looking down at her bosom, she was wearing a low cut gown. She tried to pull it up, but to no avail and Edgar found it amusing, "Miss McKay, you have nothing to be ashamed, I assure you. I find the view from here rather breathtaking."

"Isn't it proper to look at a lady's face while dancing, Lord Spencer?"

"You haven't had a good look at the ladies present, obviously. In most cases, their faces are not their most valuable assets. But, you are an exception, I suppose I could draw my eyes away from your delectable bosom momentarily, since you do possess a beauty that is not found in English women."

Sarcastically she said, "You have a way with words, Lord Spencer."

"Miss McKay, I gather Leopold has warned you about me. He has always been a bit paranoid in regards to women he is interested in. He has this ridiculous assumption that I deliberately go after anyone he has eyes for."

"He has warned me, but I can make my own judgments of people. Leopold doesn't do my thinking."

"I can see that, Miss McKay and I like that about a lady. A mind of their own is a quality I find very attractive in women."

"You, Lord Spencer, are a married man."

"Of course I am, but it doesn't stop me from looking or admiring. So I am curious about you and Leopold. It is all very sudden isn't it?"

"I suppose you could say that, but it's right. We both know it."

"And Leopold is probably quite anxious to have an heir, he is not getting any younger."

"That is none of your business."

"From that tone of your voice, it sounds like you are not in favor of having children right away. It is a wives duty, to present an heir. Especially in Leopold's position. You wouldn't want the title to go to someone not in the family if anything should happen to him."

"First of all, it is not my duty to have a baby for Leopold. If and when we have a child it is a decision we both will make together. And as for the title, nothing is going to happen to Leopold, and if by some odd chance it does Millard is next in line."

"Millard is getting rather old."

"Why are we having this discussion? What is your vested interest in who will become the next Duke?"

"Dear, I am just making conversation. I am sorry if I am out of line."

The music stopped, and Kate looked around for Leopold, "He is probably catching up with my wife still. You know that they were once engaged."

"Leopold told me they were to be married, yes, but not officially engaged."

"He was a cruel young man, leading her on the way he did. 3 years, Millicent believed she would be marrying Leopold, then he broke off the relationship because he was too involved in his pathetic inventions."

"Well, isn't it lucky that you came along when you did, to pick up the pieces."

She said sarcastically.

"I would hardly call it luck, she has been unable to give me a son."

"Do you love her?"

"Miss McKay, you are asking very personal questions of someone you hardly know. Is this an American tradition? I find it very undignified and unlady like. I should have guessed Leopold would choose a wife, lacking in everything that a true Duchess should be. Leopold has always been one to rebel against his position."

She saw Leopold heading their way, "Excuse me, Lord Spencer, but I see Leopold. Thank you for the dance, and for the stimulating conversation."

When Leopold reached her, someone else had pulled Edgar away. Kate watched as he began flirting with the woman, in a lower cut dress than her own. "That man is a weasel."

"You are in agreement with me, then?"

"My god, Leopold, he is scum. He acts like his wife is a possession and her only purpose is to provide him with an heir, and he is constantly on the make. Look at him."

Leopold turned to see Edgar nibbling on a young lady's earlobe.

"Did he come on to you, Kate? If so I will personally see to it, that it never happens again."

"I think I could handle Edgar Spencer. He did look down my dress and make comments about my bosom, but that's all."

Leopold looked down at her dress and tried pulling it up, with no success, "I will get your wrap, I don't think I like the idea of the various men in this room getting a peek at what is rightfully mine." He smiled.

"My body doesn't belong to you. And I will not put a wrap on. You will have to get used to men looking at me."

"Looking I can deal with." He leaned over kissing her.

"You didn't say how Millicent is?"

"Not well. I wasn't prepared for what I just encountered. How that bastard could put her through another pregnancy. She has already lost one child and had two miscarriages. They have taken their toll on her and she is in denial. Talks about the new baby, and giving Edgar a son. It breaks my heart. I honestly don't see this child surviving and I wonder if Millicent will actually make it through this one, her health is failing her. "

"I'm sorry. I know she meant a lot to you. But maybe her just being here and having family and friends around her, will be all she needs."

"I do hope that will be the case. Now without further ado I would like to dance with my fiancé if possible."

"I think I could manage that." And they proceeded to the dance floor.



Janet tied Guinevere up to a nearby tree, towards the back of the house and made her way towards the ballroom balcony that overlooked the garden. As she looked through the double French doors, she saw all the ladies and gentlemen in their finery. It was hardly different from her last encounter here, 12 years ago, except that the ladies and gentlemen were now older. It had been Lord Spencer's 18th birthday party. It had been on this balcony that Leopold had taken Millicent in his arms for the first time, and kissed her and Janet had been there to witness it. It had broken her heart. She snapped out of her recollection of the past and proceeded to peer through the doors into the ballroom. She spotted Edgar practically raping a young woman in the corner of the room and it filled her with disgust, she averted her eyes to the dance floor where Kate and Leopold were engaged in a waltz. He looked so content. So attentive, as if she was the only person in the room and no one else mattered. Why couldn't he look at her that way? It seemed so unfair. Why didn't she listen to Jack? Why was she here? Only to torment herself. She felt like crying and leaned against the railing. Maybe it was best if she left. She was contemplating it when she heard voices and she couldn't make it back to the horse in time. She hoisted herself over the railing and hid behind the hedges.

The French doors opened and Millard and Jocelyn Spencer walked out onto the balcony. Janet watched as Millard handed her an envelope. Too bulky to be just a letter. What was going on? She listened intently.

"I am glad you have continued with your end of the bargain, Millard. I would hate to see your nephew's world tumble all around him, especially just as he is to be wed."

"And you can't possibly believe this will stop it from tumbling? You know full well, that I am in a never win situation here."

"But Leopold is happy. You have always wanted Leopold's happiness. Just look at him in there with his intended. He doesn't care about the money, the prestige; he is oblivious to the whole room. You can see it by the way he looks into her eyes."

"Unlike your son, who I see, had managed to have his hands on every woman in the room, married or single. I am a fool. I was a fool, the first time I listened to your threats and let this whole business continue. If I could put a stop to it, I would."

Jocelyn looked concerned, "But you wouldn't, would you? You care too much about your family's reputation, Millard. If you even try to put a stop to our little arrangement, you will pay the consequences. And I will carry through with every threat I have ever made. And what will Leopold think of his uncle then? All the lies you have told and the secrets you have kept."

"You have what you want, I will now go and join my wife if you don't mind."



Kate had noticed Millard and Lady Spencer through the doors leading to the balcony. It didn't look like they were exchanging pleasantries at all. In fact, Millard looked extremely disturbed. She didn't mention it to Leopold; he would blow it off as usual. But Kate stored this information away, thinking about her conversation with Aunt Agnes, and what was in that envelope. She watched Millard come in and head for Margaret who was chatting to a few people. He wiped his forehead with a handkerchief, and looked very worried. As they twirled around the room, she then saw Lady Spencer head over to her son, and whisper in his ear. Edgar grinned from ear to ear, much like the Cheshire cat. Leopold noticed that Kate's eyes were not on him.

"What has captured your attention, and diverted your eyes away from your future husband, my dear? I hope you have not found another, that catches your fancy."

She turned back to him smiling, "Of course not. Why would I look any further when I have the most handsome, charming gentleman in the room? I was just admiring all the ladies and their attire."

"You are beginning to sound like you belong in 1876."

"I know I belong here, Leopold. There is no question in my mind." He leaned towards her and gave her a kiss.



After Lady Spencer and Millard had left the balcony, Janet looked perplexed. There was a lot she knew, in fact she had been sent away because she knew too much. But now it seemed Lady Spencer was blackmailing Lord Mountbatten and it seemed to involve money. That is what had to be in the envelope, but she didn't have all the details. Her mind started racing. Back to that summer when she was 15, and all the events that had occurred. These things were connected. They had to be. So busy in thought, she didn't here the French doors open again, until the next thing she knew, Edgar was only a few feet from her, with a young lady he strategically had pinned against the wall of the house. He lifted up her skirts and proceeded to unfasten his pants, and Janet must have gasped because he stopped and looked around. Janet stood very still, she noticed the young lady was looking right at her, and hoped that she wouldn't say anything. But that was not to be the case, "Edgar, someone is in the bushes watching us." She pointed straight at her.

Edgar's eyes landed on Janet, and she immediately jumped up and started running to where she had tied Guinevere. Edgar fastened up his pants and darted after her, waving at the young lady at the same time, "You go back into the ball, I will deal with this intruder." And she obeyed.

Janet was no match for Edgar, not in this bloody dress. The memories of her 15th year flooded back, and she felt frightened. She just had to get to Guinevere and get out of here. But he lunged towards her and grabbed on to her skirts and ripped the back, she managed to stumble up, but she felt she had twisted her ankle, and it was no use. It was a matter of seconds before Edgar had her right where he wanted her, pinned to the ground.

He was sweaty and panting, and it made her feel sick as she breathed into her face, "Well, well, look what we have here. Miss Collins. I really thought you, of all people would know not to be caught on my property. This has happened on more than one occasion, has it not."

"Just let me go." She pleaded.

"And why should I do that, you have trespassed, which is a major offense in this country. And you have interrupted a very important liaison between me and my lady friend back there."

"I will scream."

"You will do no such thing. You have forgotten what happened in India? Somehow I doubt it. I am in total control here. So what brought you to my humble abode this time, Miss Collins? Are you still tagging after Master Leopold, living in your little fairy tale world? I thought you would have long given that dream up. He is very much in love with Miss McKay. Or did you come back because of me. You have longed for me these past few years and have come back begging for more. I must say Miss Collins, you are in good company. I have many women who find my love making techniques truly extraordinary, and cannot compare to the average gentlemen."

He began to unfasten his trousers, all the while restraining Janet with a firm grip on both of her wrists, holding them above her head. His body was pressed against her, and although she struggled, she could not budge under his weight. He proceeded in lifting up her skirts and he smiled wickedly at her, "I have always enjoyed a struggle, it makes the lovemaking much more animalistic." She held back tears, if only she had listened to Jack, she wouldn't be in this situation. It seemed to late now.

After their dance a few gentlemen obviously interested in his latest work had drawn Leopold away on his elevator, and of course Leopold was anxious to discuss his latest findings with anyone who would listen. Kate excused herself and got a glass of champagne. She noticed Edgar was nowhere to be seen and couldn't help but notice the disheveled young lady who had just entered through the French doors from the balcony; it was pretty obvious she had been with someone out on the balcony. The young lady tried to straighten herself out and Kate found it rather amusing. Kate headed towards the balcony and looked out the window, into pitch- blackness. She was curious, was it Edgar? She opened the doors and stood out on the balcony looking around, she couldn't see anyone. She then went closer to the railing, and thought she heard a noise. In the distance there was a figure, possibly two. As she walked down the steps and the figures were more in view, she realized there was someone struggling, and she quickly picked up her skirts and made her way as fast as possible to the young woman. What she encountered was Lord Spencer with some helpless young woman pinned under him, how many women did this guy go through in a night? It was disgusting.

"Take your hands off her right now."

He managed to turn his head, while keeping her pinned, "Ah, Miss McKay, this is no concern of yours so please leave us be, this instance."

She then managed to see the girls face, and realized it was Janet. Feeling ashamed, of being caught by her employer, she turned her head away. "This is my concern. You happen to have my personal companion pinned underneath you, and she doesn't seem pleased. So would you kindly, remove yourself from her, this instance? I won't ask again."

"And what pray tell will you do to me, if I don't obey?" He was rather amused by Kate's firm stand. "Or possibly are you jealous, that your companion is in this position and not yourself. Is Leopold lacking in that department? I am truly not surprised." Edgar was losing interest in Janet and found Kate much more tempting. He loosened his grip and began to sit up. Janet quickly got out from under him and stood back. As he stood up refastened his trousers, he moved closer to Kate and grabbed her arm, he smiled at her triumphantly. "I will gladly be obliged to show you what you are missing, Miss McKay."

As he pulled her closer to him, she pulled her skirt up with her free hand stepped forward and raised her left knee. Before he realized what was happening she kneed him in the balls, and he cried out in agony, letting go of Kate and stumbling over in pain, holding himself. Janet laughed, "Good one, Miss Katherine."

Kate looked down at him on the ground, he now seemed rather pathetic. "I don't think you will be bothering either one of us again, this evening. Or any other sweet young thing attending this ball, for that matter. Don't you think you have left your guests long enough? What kind of host are you?"

He didn't say anything as he picked himself up, embarrassed to have been taken by a woman, and he walked past them, tried to straighten himself up and head towards the house.

Janet looked over at Kate, "Thank-you. I don't know what I would have done without you. I detest that man."

"I am glad I could do something. I don't think to highly of him myself. But Janet, why are you even here?"

"I was bored. I thought there was no harm in just having a peek. Everyone having such a good time all dressed up. You and Master Leopold looked absolutely magnificent together on the dance floor." There was sadness in her voice, "but I shouldn't have come. I should've learnt from the first time. But the first time, I wasn't so lucky. There was no one to save me from Lord Spencer then."

Kate looked surprised, "What are you saying?"

She started to cry, "You mustn't ever tell Master Leopold. You must promise."

"Okay, I promise."

"I told you a lie, about why I was sent away. You see, I was pregnant, with Lord Spencer's baby."

"You were 15! He raped you?"

"It started out as rape, and I struggled and I bit and kicked, but I finally gave in. It was horrible. I blame myself."

"How can you blame yourself? I have seen him in there, all over every woman in sight. Did you lose the baby?"

She nodded, "I threw myself down the stairs, at Balinor, I lost the baby. I couldn't bear the thought of having his child. It made me sick. I know I did a horrible thing, killing the life inside me. But I really felt I had no choice. I thought I would be able to stay on at Balinor, but Millard was outraged."

"He knew?"

"Oh, yes. When he found out I was going to tell Master Leopold, he had a fit. But he always was fond of my mother. She has been a good employee, so he sent me to a girls college in Scotland, and that is how I got my job as a governess."

"Who else knows?"

"My mother, of course and Jack. I tell Jack everything."

Kate went over to her and comforted her, "Oh, Janet, I am truly sorry. Look, you need to get back to the house. How did you get here?"

"I rode Guinevere. I am sorry, I know she is your horse, but I didn't think you would mind."

"I don't mind, but you are all shaken up. You can't possibly ride, in your condition now."

"I will be fine. You need to get back to the ball, Master Leopold will be wondering where you are."

"You don't think Lord Spencer will say anything do you?"

"Oh, no, miss, not after being beaten by a woman. He wouldn't have the nerve. What will you tell Master Leopold?"

"I will cross that bridge when I come to it. You better go. We'll talk later tonight."

"I would like that, Miss."

Kate watched her mount Guinevere, feeling a bit protective of her. She had never had a sister and felt something for this young woman. In New York she had never had a close female friend, working in a man's world. She felt a connection with Janet and hoped they could continue to be close. Sometimes she just wanted someone to talk to besides Leopold. She was also very curious about this woman and her connection to Edgar Spencer. So many things seemed to be going on. Kate couldn't just let it go. There seemed to be much at stake. After Janet rode off, Kate headed back to the ball, her mind swimming with thoughts. It was turning out to be quite an interesting evening.