Lady Tremaine’s head was spinning after the dinner party. The evening already swirled in her memory like a dream. She tried to hold on to every moment, to form a clear memory she should cherish forever, but it slipped through her fingers, leaving her with fragments. She could hardly believe it was all happening, and so quickly. One moment she thought it was all a misunderstanding, and the next they were engaged.

After dinner Lady Hackle arranged for champagne, chocolates, and fruit in the library so Lady Tremaine and Sir Richard could have a few moments alone before he sailed to the Many Kingdoms.

“I’m sorry to dash off like this, when we have so much left to discuss, but I have been summoned by my king, and it’s my duty to attend to him the moment I’m called to his side. It is my express wish, however, that you and your daughters join me as soon as you are able,” he said, kissing her hand. “I hope you understand.”

She wanted to say she did, but she didn’t.

“Won’t you come back with me to the Many Kingdoms now? I hate the idea of delaying your journey any longer than necessary.” He kissed her hand again, then squeezed it in his own.

“And what of my girls, Richard? I can’t go ahead without them.” Lady Tremaine shook her head. “Of course I’ll leave Lady Hackle’s immediately so I can join you as soon as possible, but this is all happening so quickly. There are things that must be considered, plans to be made. My household needs to be packed and shipped, and there is the matter of my servants. I will have to arrange passage for them, as well as for myself and my girls. My goodness, I have to tell the girls! They’re going to be blindsided,” she said as Sir Richard took her other hand in his.

“There is no need to bring anything other than your personal belongings, Lady Tremaine. My château is beautifully furnished and fully staffed. Bring your lady’s maid and governess for company for you and your girls during the journey, if you wish, but we won’t be in need of them once you are settled into your new home. But come quickly and with haste. I need you by my side,” he said, looking deeply into her eyes.

Just then there was a knock at the door, and Sir Richard’s valet entered. “Excuse me, but we must be going. Sir Richard’s carriage must depart now if he’s to make the ship to the Many Kingdoms.”

“Very well, I’ll be there in a moment,” Sir Richard said.