Brooke and Lucas finally arrived near Lady Lee's home. They still kept their distance so no one would see them unchaperoned.
Brooke : I think I've won...
Lucas : I readily admit defeat! You're an outstanding rider. But the trousers must have a lot to do with it; I imagine riding sidesaddle can't be easy.
Brooke : I can confirm, it's certainly more graceful, but much less obvious. You have to maintain a precarious balance, and women would never be able to gallop like that unless they showed their ankles, much less so if they deigned to ride like the gentlemen. Speed and the power to launch into a gallop seem, once again, reserved for you.
Lucas : Few women would show themselves in trousers like that, you know. And even fewer would admit they were seeking power...
Brooke : And yet... But like I told you, I hadn't planned on running into a man during my morning walk. I never would if I were to run into anyone. As for that feeling of power, far more women than you think crave it. It's not necessarily strength per se. It's that feeling of being free, of being in control of oneself, of being able to move mountains because one has the capacity. Look at Lady Whistledown. She possesses that power, she gives herself the means to do it. She was looking for that, I'm sure! To have weight in the world, to do what she wanted. I hate and admire her courage at the same time.
Lucas wore an amused but kind smile as he listened to the young woman.
Brooke : Are you kidding me?
Lucas : Of course not! I just notice that you are a very different woman from others. Very strong and powerful, according to your words. More than you think, I'm sure. Did your parents pass that on to you?
Brooke hesitated for a moment and bit her lip as she considered what she should and shouldn't say. She wanted to confide, even if only a little, in this man. So she decided to take the initiative.
Brooke : My mother did indeed pass that on to me. She taught me how to be the young woman expected of me. But she also expected more. She wanted to give me the means to do more. I learned to dance, to embroider, to converse properly. But she taught me even greater things: literature, science, mathematics, languages, among others. The more I knew, the more beautiful things I could do.
Lucas : And your father?
Brooke : My father was very loving when I was young. He saw me as an individual more than just a woman. He taught me how to ride, to sail, to shoot.
Lucas : Indeed, these are activities reserved only for boys here.
Brooke : I know, that's why I don't dwell on all that in polite society.
Lucas : And what happened to them?
Brooke : My father... changed. It ruined him. And my mother wanted to stay with him. So I had no choice but to leave.
Lucas : So you seem to have grown up in a home filled with love... If your mother was so close to your father, romanticism must have ruled your family. But you were very brave. To leave what you knew, and alone at that.
A shadow passed over Brooke's face, which didn't escape Lucas's notice. The memory of her parents still seemed painful for her.
Brooke : You know, Lucas, love sometimes makes you do things you regret later; it blinds you from time to time. Besides, I don't consider myself brave. I ran away. I should have stayed to settle some matters, and I preferred to leave.
Lucas : Unfinished business? If your father left unfinished business after his disappearance, it wasn't your job to handle it.
Brooke : Because I'm a woman?
Lucas : Yes, well, that's how it works down here...
Brooke : You should know that I'm more than resourceful enough to handle all my affairs on my own. And if you're implying that a man should have handled this, or even more so, handled me, you should also know that I'm the last of my name, thankfully, and that a man will never again have a say in my future. With that, I'll leave you. Have a good day.
Brooke didn't give Lucas another glance and put her horse into a trot to return to the stables. He didn't hold her back, too disturbed by her reaction. Sure, she was like Peyton in defending women's rights. But even if he didn't often say it to his sister, he supported her. He wasn't a representative of the fairer sex and didn't live up to the obligations that were incumbent upon them. Yet, just imagining it, he couldn't help but support them. He loved his freedom, his ability to choose. And unfortunately, he didn't use it enough.
Even though on the surface she seemed to have gotten upset over this, Lucas was certain that the reason for Brooke's anger ran much deeper than that. Yet another mystery to solve concerning her. She had agreed to open up a little, to talk about her childhood. Yet, her past still seemed to trouble her. What was it about it that troubled her so much? And what were the things she had run away from? He had never meant to hurt her by implying that a man should have handled them for her. That was the only way it was done, what she had been taught. However, he had no doubt for a single moment that she would not have been able to handle it alone. He simply didn't want that for her. He wanted her to be surrounded, protected. If she wanted it. Brooke Davis was far from being docile and waiting for anyone. Yet, everyone needed a shoulder to lean on. Brooke deserved it, he was sure of it.
When he passed in front the door of Lady Lee's home, there was no longer a soul in sight; the gentlemen must have turned away when they learned the young lady wasn't there. Lucas reflected, however, that none of them knew her well enough to meet her needs. And above all, that many of them could never tolerate her intelligence, wit, and desires without it bruising their overly large egos. He smiled for a moment and quietly made his way home, not forgetting that he would have to apologize to Brooke as soon as he saw her again.
When he got home, Lucas found almost his entire family in the living room. Only Nathan was missing, and Anna Tagaro, Peyton's best friend, was also present. He headed towards them. The company of the two young women was always pleasant, especially when he ardently wanted to understand how young ladies worked. He had always felt like he wasn't completely out of touch with reality, yet Brooke Davis was proving him wrong today.
Lucas : Hello, Anna...
He gave a small bow before sitting down next to his sister.
Anna : Lucas...
She gave a big smile and a bow in return.
Peyton : You look exhausted, brother...
Lucas : I went out riding, and I must admit, the race really exhausted me.
Peyton : Really? I've never seen you do that before today. Was it the French wind that made you want to go?
Lucas : Peyton...
Anna : The French wind? Did you go and visit Miss Davis? There must have been a crowd of suitors, I'm sure. Just like Miss James. But don't they all stay at Lady Lee's?
Lucas reflected that the crowd of gentlemen was indeed very impressive, and that some must have gone to see Miss James while others would have preferred Miss Davis. Lady Lee wasn't going to be idle this season...
Lucas : Actually, I ran into Miss Davis. We had a little chat, and she's very interesting.
Peyton : You find a lady interesting? Do you?
Lucas : How should I take that, sister? Can't I seek out the company of anyone, regardless of gender, if they happen to be interesting and intelligent? You, of all people, should be able to say that, right?
Peyton was shocked, and Anna giggled.
Anna : What did you talk about, Lucas?
Lucas : Travel. Miss Davis has traveled a lot in her life, especially to Greece. So we told each other about our adventures...
Anna : Well, it's so rare for a young woman to boast of having traveled. Despite what she says, I'm sure she'll meet a charming gentleman who will make her want to marry.
Lucas : I don't know, maybe. I wish it for her if it makes her happy...
Anna : You seem to like him, but maybe I'm wrong?
Peyton : Oh, Anna, I can confirm that my brother likes him. Even Lady Whistledown noticed!
Lucas : Peyton, I repeat! I can enjoy the company of a lady without wanting to marry her immediately. That's the case with Anna, for example; she's my friend, and that's perfectly fine. That doesn't bother you in this case.
Peyton opened her mouth as if she were about to say something else, but then closed it again. Lucas was delighted to have silenced her. And just as he was savoring his victory, Nathan burst into the household.
Nathan : Dear Scott, I see we're all here! I'm going to ask you all to get ready, because we're heading to the races right away. Like one perfect united family.
Karen : Does any of this have to do with your courting of Miss Taylor, Nathan?
Nathan : Indeed, Mother. And we're going to show off to everyone like the respectable family we are.
Peyton : So you were part of the horde of gentlemen Lucas was telling us about...
Nathan turned to his brother and sister and stared at his younger brother.
Nathan : How do you know that? Do you want to court Miss Taylor?
All eyes immediately turned to Lucas, who, for the first time, felt embarrassed at being spied on by his family. With seven brothers and sisters and a very present mother, in every sense of the word, he should be used to it. Yet, at that moment, he cursed his situation.
Lucas : I'm not courting Miss Taylor in any way. I went for a walk this morning, I passed by Lady Lee's house where I saw the horde of gentlemen. That's all.
Nathan eyed him suspiciously but quickly diverted his attention, urging everyone to get ready quickly. Lucas huffed and puffed, trying to shut off his mind, which was thinking only one thing: would Miss Davis be at the races?
Brooke had brought her horse back to the stables and returned to the house where she was staying. She was very upset and angry. Lucas Scott had a knack for bringing out emotions in her that she had long tried to keep buried. Of course, she hadn't been offended by Lucas's remark about men's affairs. She knew very well that this was the way the world turned. But not hers. It wasn't this misogynistic reality that had angered her. It was mainly the fact that he brought up her loneliness, her escape, and everything that remained behind her. All his allusions to a home filled with love had made her laugh bitterly. He had indeed grown up in this environment, but not her. She had believed it for a time, before reality caught up with her. The latter had almost condemned her just like her mother. And yet, here she was today. But without her. She was simply too jealous of Mr. Scott, and too angry with herself. With life.
Brooke hurried back to her room and dressed in something more modest. She put on a pretty blue dress and her usual gloves and quickly joined Lady Lee. In the small drawing room were her aunt and the entire James family. Brooke had met them the day before, at the early-season ball. They hadn't had much time to talk, but now that they were living under the same roof, Brooke felt like making friends with them.
Brooke : Good morning everyone...
Taylor : Good morning, Miss Brooke...
She curtsied slightly, followed by her mother and sister.
Debie : Was your morning good, my dear niece?
Brooke : Excellent, thank you. I ran into Mr. Scott during my walk.
Taylor : The Viscount?
Brooke : No, his brother, Lucas Scott. I wonder how he knew where I used to go...
She narrowed her eyes as her gaze fell on her aunt, who was smiling mischievously.
Debie : A very pleasant coincidence, I'm sure...
Taylor : Oh...
She seemed visibly disappointed.
Brooke : I'm sure the Viscount will be at the races. Are you going?
Haley : Indeed, we were waiting for you to leave. A great many gentlemen came to visit you this morning, Miss Davis...
Brooke : Well, I apologize profusely for not showing them the interest they thought they deserved. And I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long. If we're all ready, let's go!
So the household set off. The Jameses got into a carriage, leaving Lady Lee and Brooke together. Once on the road, the young woman wasted no time in bringing up the subject that had been bothering her.
Brooke : Why did you tell Mr. Scott where to find me? And without a chaperone to keep an eye on us?
Debie : I didn't exactly tell Lucas Scott where you were. The charming gentleman came to visit you this morning, and one of my butlers, at my request, kindly informed him that you preferred riding to receiving visitors. Fate took care of the rest..
Brooke : And so without a chaperone?
Debie : Chance doesn't provide a chaperone, I'm sorry. But I'm sure you wouldn't do anything inappropriate with a gentleman...
Brooke : Of course!
Debie : I had no doubt about it, my dear.
Brooke rolled her eyes, shaking her head. This woman would get the better of her.
Arriving at the races, Brooke was delighted to see the sun brightening up the mild afternoon. She hadn't eaten anything and was hoping to find something to nibble on. So she eluded her aunt's vigilance and wandered the aisles in search of something delectable. There were multiple colorful stalls, and the race would soon be starting. She was scanning the onlookers when she came face to face with a face she didn't recognize, but one that strongly reminded her of someone.
Karen : Miss Davis! I'm delighted to meet you in person. Let me introduce myself, I am...
Brooke : Lady Scott, no doubt...
Karen : Indeed, but we've never been introduced...
Brooke : I was lucky enough to meet your son, and he can never deny that he looks exactly like you...
Karen : Well, indeed, my children look quite like me! In any case, I'm delighted to be able to speak with you in person. I was hoping to see you accompanied by your aunt because we are friends. Besides, isn't she with you?
Brooke : Yes, she stayed with the James. I wanted to take a little walk before going to meet them. Actually, I think Miss James was hoping to run into the Viscount, but don't tell her I didn't mention it!
Karen : I won't say anything, don't worry, but I'm sure my son was looking for her too. We came as a family, perhaps I could introduce you to my children?
Brooke : It would be my great pleasure, Lady Scott...
Brooke followed the mother of the family through the aisles until they reached the stands. In the distance, she saw the James family seated. A first gentleman was sitting next to Taylor. Lord Keller was indeed her date this afternoon. As for Haley, another gentleman seemed to be keeping her company. Lady Lee was keeping watch nearby, and right next to her stood the entire Scott family. The only person missing was the Duchess Lucas had told her about. Brooke thought they all looked a lot alike. A beautiful family.
Lucas was chatting quietly with his younger sister, Lily, when a sharp blow to the ribs knocked the wind out of him. He turned his head toward his brother, Julian.
Lucas : What?
Julian : I think Mother had a lovely encounter...
Lucas looked ahead and saw his mother approaching them, accompanied by Miss Davis. Lucas's blood boiled. Leaving his mother, a compulsive matchmaker, in the company of Miss Davis wasn't a good idea for his business at all. She would surely praise all of her son's qualities with a cruel lack of tact and drive the young woman away. And he clearly didn't want her to stop seeing him. He was already supposed to apologize for upsetting her this morning, and he didn't want to have to apologize for the advances his mother was making in his place.
His mother and the young woman climbed up to them.
Karen : Miss Davis, allow me to introduce my children. Julian, Lily, Jamie, Peyton, and Rachel. My eldest daughter isn't with us, and Lucas. As for the Viscount, where is he?... Oh, well, it seems he's found Miss James. Miss Davis, would you like to keep us company?
Brooke : With great pleasure, Lady Scott...
Julian stood up to give her the seat next to Lucas and went to sit between him and the youngest of the family, to make sure they had some peace and quiet. An awkward silence fell between Lucas and Brooke as she sat down.
Lucas : I'm sorry...
Brooke : What about?
Brooke stared straight ahead, paying her no attention. Lucas was thrown off balance. She had a temper like he'd rarely seen before.
Lucas : For upsetting or hurting you this morning. That wasn't my intention at all. And I'm sorry about my mother.
Brooke : Your mother?
She finally looked at him.
Brooke : What would your mother have done that would warrant your apology?
Lucas : Well, nothing too serious, really. But she can be pretty quick when one of her children is around a member of the opposite sex...
Brooke : Oh! So you're apologizing because you think your mother dropped hints about a potential union between you and me?
Lucas : Yes?
Brooke : So that means that if your mother is already picturing me at the altar on your arm, you would have told her about me and our interactions?
Lucas : No!
He was very embarrassed by the turn of the conversation.
Lucas : Well, yes! I told her about you. A little. And she saw us dancing at the last ball. But I didn't make any allusions, of course, because we're friends, as you reminded me this morning, and...
He stopped when he saw her looking at him and smiling. She seemed to be making fun of him, and it saddened him. His greatest desire was to uncover this young woman's secrets, and all he managed to do around her was lose his composure.
Lucas : You're making fun of me...
Brooke : No, Mr. Scott. I'm teasing you because, indeed, you are my friend. It's me, in truth, who should be apologizing for this morning. I reacted vehemently when it was nothing to do with you. Your words simply brought back bad memories. As for your mother, she is charming and I must say that her attacks, because yes, there were some, are charming and relatively delicate. Your family is very pleasant, don't worry. And I am not angry with you. Forgive me if you thought otherwise or that I might have laughed at you. That was in no way my intention. Quite the contrary.
She had said these last words, quickly placing her hand on Lucas's knee, wearing a kind smile. She had made sure no one saw this gesture, all too familiar for high society, but she had intended this contact to reassure him. And it had worked. Even if it had also made this honorable gentleman's heart beat a little faster.
Lucas : You are surprising, Miss Davis...
Brooke : I take the greatest care, so you flatter me, Mr. Scott...
She turned her attention back to the race that had just started, and he could only continue to look at her. Her profile, her laughing eyes, her captivating smile. She was dazzlingly beautiful, and even though the sun was shining brightly on this festive day, he had a much brighter star to contemplate.