Still, I had a reason to attend. Poetry gatherings were filled with noble ladies—the perfect place to promote my new business.
"Go, then," I said.
Simon hesitated, clearly surprised that I had agreed, but he nodded in the end.
The day of the poetry gathering came quickly. As Simon and I entered the Skyview Pavilion, I saw many finely dressed ladies mingling beneath its elegant arches.
The Leighs had done well in recent years, becoming one of London's prominent families.
Many eyes turned toward us as we entered—some curious, some indifferent, others welcoming. The title of the Duke's heir was enough to attract attention.
"Simon!" A bright, playful voice called from within the pavilion, and a figure in pink descended the steps quickly toward us. It was Lady Ann Leigh, the daughter of the house.
She paid no attention to me, going straight to Simon, her voice soft and sweet. "Simon, would you join me for a walk by the gardens?"
Simon glanced briefly at me before replying, "No."
The rejection, in front of so many onlookers, made Lady Ann's smile freeze, though she quickly forced it back. "Are you still upset that I couldn't stop my father? I never meant—"