Through time; The ripper

His home

*Leo*

As we walk through the streets, I have to admit that I am starting to feel slightly nervous, which is not a feeling I experience very often.. The anticipation of the ball looms like a shadow, both thrilling and daunting. I glance sideways at Lily, her simple dress swaying elegantly as she walks, and I can’t help but smile. She looks stunning already, and in her ballgown she will be the Belle of the ball. If anyone dares to criticize her tonight, they’ll have to answer to me.

I lead her toward my bachelor townhouse, a modest yet respectable abode, adorned with the kind of decor that shouts ‘I am wealthy but not gaudy.’ I push the door open, and the familiar scent of polished wood and leather greets me.

“Welcome to my humble home, my lady!” I announce with a flourish, only half-jokingly.

“Very charming,” she replies, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

At that moment, my butler, Mr. Pembroke, emerges from the shadows of the hallway, his expression one of mild disapproval.

“Lord Thorne,” he states, his voice dripping with the kind of sarcasm that only an exasperated butler can master. “Might I inquire why you have brought a young woman into the house without a chaperone? What kind of example are you setting?”

I can’t help but roll my eyes. “Pem, must you always be the voice of reason? I assure you, Lily is perfectly capable of staying out of trouble. Besides, she needs guidance for this evening’s soiree, and I’d rather she receive it from me than the gossipy matrons of society.”

“Quite the noble cause you’ve undertaken, sir,” Pembroke replies, raising an eyebrow. “I only hope your ‘guidance’ does not lead to a scandal that will have me polishing the silverware for the next decade.”

I chuckle, and I can see Lily trying to suppress a giggle. “You’ll have to forgive him; he has a flair for the dramatic.”

“In my line of work, my lord, one must be prepared for the worst,” Pembroke replies with a sigh, shaking his head. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have more pressing matters, such as ensuring the tea is brewed to perfection for your afternoon refreshments… I small inform the cook that we have a guest.”

“Don’t worry, Pembroke. I shan’t keep you from your precious tea for long,” I promise, waving him off.

“Charming,” Lily whispers, her eyes shining. “He’s quite the character.”

“Just wait until he gets started on the latest gossip,” I say with a wink. “Now, come along. We must prepare you for the evening ahead.”

I lead her to the sitting room, where sunlight streams in through the tall windows, illuminating the plush furniture and elegant decor. “First things first, we must discuss how to interact with the aristocracy. It’s an art form, really.”

“An art form?” she repeats, arching an eyebrow.

“Indeed,” I reply, gesturing for her to take a seat. “You see, each title comes with its own set of expectations. You will address Dukes and Duchesses as ‘Your Grace’, any earls, marquess, viscounts or leaser sons of nobility as ‘My Lord,’ Do you follow?”

“Like a dance card for words,” she muses, a hint of amusement in her tone.

“Precisely!” I exclaim, warming to my subject. “And remember, when you greet someone, a slight curtsy is customary. Too much enthusiasm can lead to misunderstandings.”

“Right, so no leaping into their arms with exuberance,” she quips, and I can’t help but laugh.

“Exactly! And as for conversation, steer clear of politics and religion, I hate to say it but women are not supposed to talk about those things here. Stick to the latest fashions, the weather, and, of course, the latest gossip.”

“And I guess no talking jobs or murder cases?” she asks, her expression turning mischievous. “However, will we entertain ourselves then?”

I give her what I hope is schooling look, then a smile, “Ah, well, dancing is a fine way to do that. You may dance with a gentleman once, twice if he’s exceptionally agreeable, but never three times. That will lead to tongues wagging, and we wouldn’t want that now, would we?”

“Very stern rules,” she muses, a playful glint in her eyes. “What if I like to dance?”

“Then you shall have to be very discerning,” I reply, leaning in conspiratorially. “But fear not; I shall be your protector against any unwanted advances.”

“Your gallantry is noted,” she smirks, and I can’t help but feel a surge of pride.

“Now, let’s call for my maid,” I say, turning to the door. “She can help you with your hair, the dress when it arrive and any last-minute touches.”

“Your maid?” Lily asks, tilting her head. “You have a maid? You think she is okay with that?”

“Rest assured, she has more skill than most,” I reply, pressing the bell to summon Emily.

A moment later, a young woman with bright cheeks and a friendly demeanor appears. “Yes, my lord?”

“Emily, please help Miss Lily prepare for the ball. Her dress will arrive soon and I hoped you Could help with her hair.” I tell her.

“Of course, my lord!” She turns to Lily with a wide smile. “I’ll make you look absolutely stunning, m’lady! I have sisters who are always in need of my help, so I’ve had plenty of practice.”

“Ah, this should work perfectly then,” I comment, chuckling as I watch the two women exchange excited glances.

“Just wait until you see what I can do, My Lord,” Emily says, her enthusiasm infectious.

“Very well, then,” I reply, crossing my arms with a grin. “I shall leave you two to your devices. But remember, Lily, if you need me, just call for Pe,broke and tell him to fetch me.”

As I take my leave, I can’t shake the feeling that this evening will be one for the books. A ball, a beautiful stranger transformed into a dazzling lady, and the chance to navigate the treacherous waters of high society together… whatever could go wrong?

I make my way to the study, pouring myself a glass of scotch as I listen to the sounds of laughter and chatter coming from the sitting room. I can almost picture Lily in front of the mirror, her eyes sparkling with excitement as Emily works her magic.

This is the most I have looked forward to a ball in forever.