Gigi froze as her heart dropped to her stomach.

"Genevieve," Lord Brixton said.

At the sound of the deep, authoritative voice, Gigi's mouth went dry. She turned around to find Lord Brixton standing in the doorway of his study. He held his hands behind his back. His expression looked as if it was carved from stone. Her heart banged away inside her chest, the sound so loud in her own ears she wondered how it didn't wake the whole manor. The color drained from her face as she waited for his next words.

"Come," he said.

The barely spoken command instantly had her moving forward, even though every part of her wanted to bolt up the stairs. He stepped back into his study and Gigi followed.

Lanterns lining the walls, illuminated a room made up of dark wooden shelves filled with pristine books. An imposing desk lay before two leather chairs. Atop the desk were stacks of neat papers and rectangle parcels. The room smelled of lamp oil, pipe smoke and ink. Moonlight filtered through the clouds and fell in through the only tall window.

Lord Brixton gestured for Gigi to have a seat in one of the chairs. She sat on the edge, her back straight and her hands folded on her lap. She hoped the picture she presented was far from the ragged vagabond she felt herself to be in that moment. Lord Brixton gave her clothes a brief glance. Her cheeks flushed scarlet. Suddenly the loose, worn shirt weighed twice as much.

He turned away and moved to the window. His posture was rigid, his silence heavy with unspoken thoughts. Gigi itched to move, to speak, but she clenched her jaw, keeping her words captive. The clock in the room ticked on, the sound seemed to add to the disapproval that was stifling the air.

"Where were you?" Lord Brixton asked, his voice barely hinting at his emotions.

Gigi swallowed hard, trying to push the words though the dryness in her throat.

"I was out in the square, where the troupe was performing," she said, the words small.

At her response, Lord Brixton faced her. "Are you all right? Are you hurt?"

The questions of concern broke off a piece of Gigi's worry. She shook her head.

"I am not. I am fine."

Her grandfather nodded, relief touching his hard features. The betrayal of emotion was enough to break the flood gates of her mind and let the tsunami of words gush out, but held them back.

"Genevieve, do you understand how dangerous it was for a young lady like yourself to go out into the city on her own at night?"

Huck popped into Gigi's mind but she held the knowledge of his presence to herself. Her grandfather's worry would be worse if he knew she had been in the company of a man, even if was her cousin.

"I do, sir," she said, gripping her hands.

He gave a slow nod, seeing the sincerity in her eyes.

"My dear child." He walked back to his desk and stood behind the upright, winged chair. "Do you understand now that your position has changed? You are a Lady. Some may want to exploit you for the title you hold. For this reason you must act in a manner that befits your station."

His gaze darted down at the ragged skirt, the skirt that couldn't hold a candle to the gowns she had grown accustomed to. Guilt wiggled its way into her mind, seeing how she looked before him. As if she had tossed aside his kindness. The hours of lessons climbed up her arms and settled on her shoulders, weighing them down. She found she couldn't raise her head, the foolishness of her actions gnawing at her.

"I do understand, sir," she said.

Lord Brixton took in her hung head and knotted fingers.

"Why did you do it, child?" he asked.

The image of Huck's devilish smile and mischievous blue eyes popped into her head. She looked up.

"I wanted to leave the grounds. The music was so lively and I..."

She didn't finish, her excuses seeming inconsequential in the light of his studying gaze and the glow of the lanterns.

"Your grandmother and I thought it best to keep you out of society until we felt you were ready. Felt you would be comfortable. It was a decision for your benefit." He walked back to the window, but faced her. "Can you understand why we choose to do so now?"

As Gigi dipped her head in acknowledgment, her cheeks turned a deeper shade of red, her heart traveling down to her toes. Her grandfather's gray eyes considered her for a long moment. Gigi held herself together, as her thoughts ran rampant on how to remedy her mistake.

"The King's Festival is an honored celebration which the highest of the Kingdom's nobles come to join in. If you are not ready to be a part of this tradition, I must know now."

Panic squeezed Gigi's chest and yanked her heart up into her throat. Her eyes widened, as every image of Lords, Ladies, and a glittering world were drowned in her mind. All the hopes of the coming weeks edged toward a cliff and she saw them teetering. Heart pounding in desperation, she jumped up and rushed over to her grandfather. She looked at him with pleading eyes.

"I am ready. I made a foolish mistake," she said, holding onto his arm. "I will not leave the grounds again. There is nothing more I want than to attend the King's Festival. I am sorry for leaving. I will behave as a lady should. I promise."

"You are part of the Brixton line now, Genevieve. You have an image to uphold."

"And I will, if you give me a chance to do so. I promise I will."

Lord Brixton stared at her, as if judging the honesty and determination behind the statement. She tightened her hold on his arm, trying to convey all of her desire in the gesture. After a long tense moment, he gave a solemn nod.

"Then if from this point on," he said, "you conduct yourself in a manner that befits a Lady, then I see no reason you could not accompany us to the King's Festival."

Relief, that made Gigi feel weak, flowed through her. She bowed her head, trying to contain her excitement.

"Thank you."

When Lord Brixton shifted, Gigi released her hold on his arm. Lifting her head, she took a step back. The clock in the room chimed, bringing the reality of the hour back to them.

"It is late," he said. "You should retire."

Gigi curtsied, giving him a small, grateful smile.

"Goodnight, grandfather."

"Goodnight, child."

She rose and left the room, trying to restrain herself from rushing out. A relieved smile broke free once she was safely beyond the doorway. Her renewed excitement was too great, that she didn't wonder what had kept her grandfather up late as well.

**************

A bright flash of sunlight shocked Gigi awake the following morning. She winced and rolled over, avoiding the blaring sun. Margo moved over to her bed, hands folded before her.

"Your grandfather wishes you to join her ladyship and him for breakfast," she said.

A jolt of fear ripped Gigi entirely from her dreams. She sat bolt upright, before realizing he had allowed her to still go to the King's Festival as long as she was behaved. With a shaky laugh at her own worry, she sank back onto the pillows. Margo gave her a puzzled look.

"Are you alright, Lady?" she asked.

With another soft chuckle, Gigi nodded.

"Yes, I am going to the King's Festival and nothing will stop that."

The puzzled looked deepened on Margo's face.

"I wasn't aware that you wouldn't be going, Lady," she said.

Gigi looked over at her and smiled. She tossed aside her blankets and climbed out of her large bed.

"It is nothing Margo," she said, waving her hand.

Margo nodded, but still looked puzzled and slightly unconvinced. Gigi moved to the balcony and pulled open the doors. The sounds of hooves on stones, shouts and carriage wheels tumbled into the room on the morning air. Gigi took in a deep breath, relishing it all. Margo's footsteps faded into the bathroom. A second later the sound of rushing water and the scent of lavender filled the room.

Gigi didn't move from where she stood, too content with the feel of the rough stone beneath her feet and the manor grounds spreading out around her. With a smile, Gigi was pulled from her spot on the balcony by Margo's voice.

As Margo helped Gigi get dressed and ready for the day, Gigi noticed her giving curious looks. Her eyes would dart to Gigi, as if wanting to say something but not knowing how to phrase it. Gigi watched her, amused by the looks, though she didn't know what was behind them. When Gigi was ready and about to leave, Margo stopped her.

"You came in very late last night, Lady," Margo said.

Gigi turned back, her lips curling into a playful smile.

"Is that your way of wanting to know how it went?" she asked.

Margo blushed, as if she had been caught doing something embarrassing. Gigi gave a bright laugh.

"I shall tell you all about it, Margo. But for now I must not keep my grandparents waiting."

Margo smiled, the look eager and shy all at once.

"I would be honored, Lady," she said.

Gigi opened the door and walked out. She glided through the familiar hallways and made for the main staircase. The rise and fall of male voices floated up from beneath her as she descended. The low rhythm of their voices grew until the words became clear. Gigi was halfway down the steps, when she halted in her tracks. Coming from Lord Brixton's study was her grandfather.

Alongside him was the gray eyed nobleman she was danced with.

Neither men noticed her as they moved towards the front entrance. Gigi found herself unable to move. Equal parts of her wanted to hide before she was seen, while a strong part of her wanted to know the name of her dancing partner. The decision was made for her when her grandfather's companion looked around the foyer and locked eyes with her.

A spark of surprise darted across his face as Gigi found all the air leave her lungs. His lips slowly spread into a wide, amused smile. Lord Brixton followed the man's gaze and found Gigi frozen on the stairs. He cleared his throat and the man looked back at him, his face calm. Lord Brixton raised a hand towards Gigi, and she suddenly found that she was proceeding forward.

"Duke, I would be pleased for you to meet my granddaughter," he said, as Gigi stopped before the pair. "This is Lady Genevieve."

The Duke took a step towards her and caught up Gigi's hand. With a bow, he kissed the top of it. His eye gray eyes flashed up to her, the look teasing.

"It is an honor to make your acquaintance, my lady," he said. He rose. "I am Duke Sayers."

Gigi gave a small curtsy, her cheeks coloring at the look in his eyes.

"I am the one who is honored, your grace," she said, bowing her head.

When she met his gaze again, the teasing look had doubled and his smile was fighting to break free. He turned back to her grandfather, his back straightening, his chin lifting.

"I am indebted to you for your hospitality, my lord," he said. "My apologizes for early departure but there is an appointment I have that I can not break."

Lord Brixton gave him a reserved smile of understanding.

"Of course," he said. "Safe travels."

Duke Sayers bowed to him and received a nod of the head in return. He turned to Gigi, a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"If she is willing, perhaps your granddaughter will escort me to my horse," he said.

He held out an elbow and Gigi quickly took it, leaving no room for her grandfather's refusal.

"Very well," Lord Brixton said. "Till next time."

The men exchanged a look then the Duke was leading Gigi to the front doors. Two servants pulled them open and they stepped out into a warm morning. The light bathed the courtyard in a soft glow, that would eventually turn the stones hot. Once the doors were shut, they stopped and the Duke looked at Gigi, his smile breaking free. Gigi's heart leapt to the side as he looked at her. In the clear light of day, she was struck by his attractive features. His gray eyes were more prominent compared to the dark tan of his skin.

"The vagabond girl turns out to be a lady," he said, with a low chuckle.

Gigi's blush rushed to the v of her dress. The sight widened his smile.

"I was not aware that you would be at the manor, your grace," she said.

He laughed, the sound deep and melodious. "I believe after last night we can forgo the formalities. You may call me Raif."

Gigi smiled, the look bringing a touch of intrigue into Raif's gray eyes.

"Does your grandfather know you paraded around as a commoner?" he asked.

Something about his playful tone kept Gigi from remembering the severity of her grandfather's words the night before.

"He does," she said, her tone matching his.

"She defies his lordship and thinks nothing of it."

He studied her, his smile curious. Vic appeared from the stables, leading the same tall, black stallion Gigi had seen Raif riding the night before. The clacking of hooves reminded them of where they were. Raif stepped back from Gigi and gave her a low bow.

"Good day, Lady," he said.

He walked down the steps and took the reins from Vic. In one graceful motion, he swung himself into the saddle. He looked back at Gigi.

"I have a feeling we will cross paths again, Lady Genevieve," he said, with a rakish smile. "I look forward to that day."

Gigi felt her stomach flutter at his words. With one final look, he turned the horse and trotted off. She longed to watch him until he disappeared but felt the presence of Vic. She looked at him and found he was already watching her.

"I take it that was the late night visitor?" she asked.

"It was, Lady," he said.

"Do you know anything about him?"

Vic smiled an easy smile, a look that said the Duke was a frequent visitor.

"His family runs an estate on the border of Loria and Varron, Lady," he said. "They own one of the largest ports. His grace is the youngest of three brothers. He often travels with his father's ships, delivering precious cargo. He is well known here. Lord Brixton procures rare books from him."

Gigi nodded as her gaze traveled to the front gates and where Raif had long since disappeared. When the silence stretched too long, she returned to herself and smiled at Vic.

"Thank you, Vic."

He bowed and headed back to the stables. The doors opened and Elkly appeared.

"Lord and Lady Brixton wish you to join them for breakfast, Lady," he said.

With a nod, Gigi returned to the manor and was escorted to the dining room by Elkly. A long polished table filled the room, ringed by intricately carved chairs. Light poured in from the tall windows, the room turning cool as the light passed through pale blue, gauzy curtains. Her grandparents were already seated when she entered. She curtsied to them and took the chair a servant held out for her. Lady Brixton smiled at her.

"Well, my dear," she said. "Today will be a busy day."

Gigi's eyes flickered to her grandfather before resting back on her grandmother, wondering if it had anything to do with their talk.

"Why is that?" Gigi asked.

Her grandmother beamed with eagerness. "I have summoned Elis. He will be working with you all day to create your new wardrobe. You must look your best for the King's Festival. It is only in a couple weeks time."

The thought of a new wardrobe and the King's festival banished all lingering thoughts of Raif from Gigi's mind. She struggled to contain her excitement.

"That sounds wonderful," she said. She turned her attention to Lord Brixton. "I look forward to the chance to wear them."

He looked at her and gave a small nod, an understanding passing between them.

***************

As the last traces of the days chaotic event were carried away, Gigi fell back onto her bed. The day was over, the lights of the city illuminating the sky speckled with stars. She stared up at the carved moldings of her ceiling, feeling the tendrils of sleep pulling at her. Before she could succumb to the idea, her door opened and Margo walked in. She was followed by a servant carrying a tray laden with food. Gigi raised herself to her elbows.

"Lady Brixton thought you would enjoy a quiet night after today," Margo said.

The servant passed through into Gigi's sitting room. In a second, he was back and gave her a half bow before leaving. The scent of roasted chicken and spiced veggies floated from the doorway.

"I will agree to that."

She stood and pulled her silk dressing gown tight around her. Walking over, she gave Margo a mischievous smile.

"I also remember agreeing to tell you about last night."

Margo swallowed an eager smile and bowed her head respectfully.

"Only if you wish to, Lady."

Gigi laughed, the sound teasing a small smile from Margo.

"Who else was I going to tell," she said.

They walked to the sitting room, but a noise stopped Gigi in the doorway. She cocked her head, listening. The sound came again. A faint knock on glass. Realization dawned on her and she spun around. Grinning from behind the balcony doors was Huck. He was leaning against in the frame, his gaze trained on her. A laugh bubbled in Gigi's throat. Reality came crashing back down on her, as the weariness of days events reminded her of her promise. Her expression fell. She turned away from him and looked at Margo, who waited by the table.

"I will be with you in a moment," she said.

Margo's baffled expression was the last thing she saw as she closed the door. Quickly blowing out the lanterns, she moved to the balcony. She opened them, but didn't step back to allow Huck entry. His grin dimmed in the face of her solemn expression.

"I'm training a beautiful mare. I thought you'd like to come see," he said. By the time he finished the words had no hope.

"Huck..."

He was shaking his head before she could even find the right words to say.

"You don't have to tell me, Gigi," he said, his tone sardonic. "You've chosen where your loyalty lies and it's not with me."

All her arguments rose to her lips at the blunt declaration of the matter.

"That's not true," she said, reaching for him.

He pulled back from her grasp, his face losing all its merriment.

"No?" he mocked. "What you were about to tell, huh? It wasn't to say yes to going with me, I know that. I know you better than you think I do."

"Huck, you understand it's only for the summer," she said. "I'm coming back."

"Are you?" he said, the words sharp. "You really think when it comes time to make a choice, you'll choose us? Face it Gigi you've already changed. I didn't want to believe it but just look at you."

He gestured to her, as if her silk gown and slippers were the most distasteful things he had ever seen. She crossed her arms, anger coloring her cheeks.

"I have looked at myself and for the first time I've seen someone who matters. Not someone to be shunned or tossed off without a second glance. I am someone who means something."

A sad look entered Huck's eyes as he stared at her.

"You were always someone who meant something. Clothes didn't change that." He shook his head again, still looking at her. "Only thing that's changed are the people that you see that mean something."

Gigi clenched her fists as angry tears welled up in her eyes.

"That's not true. I still know who matters."

"Do you? I had thought I was on that list. Now I can't even be permitted to come into your room. Take a step into your precious world." He stuck his hands into his pockets. "Nah, Gigi you might be able to convince yourself that you are still the same, but I'm not fooled. I know you better than that."

"Huck, it's not because you do not mean anything. I made a promise to my grandfather to behave. I have to keep that promise."

Huck took a step back, his expression disbelieving.

"I think you'll keep the promise to your grandfather more than you would to me, even though I'm the one that's known you longer."

Gigi moved onto the balcony, trying to close more than their physical distance. The air was still warm, the heat from the day hanging on.

"I will keep my promise. I swear to you I will," she said, her tone fierce, the tears kept back.

Huck just looked at her, his faith in her slowly crumbling away despite the adamant words. They stayed frozen there, both of them appraising the other, as if strangers.

"I don't understand what's worth staying for," he said.

At his words, the image of Raif looking at her, seeing her as someone worth looking at popped into her head.

"They don't have what we have," Huck said.

"And we do not have what they do."

Huck shook his head and moved to the balcony. He was climbing over when Gigi's words stopped him.

"I will see you when the summer ends, Huck. I will come home."

He paused but didn't look at her for a second. When he looked back his eyes were filled with a mixture of anger and sadness.

"Now you sound like the vagabonds the world believes us to be," he said, "because that was a good lie."

He swung his leg over and dropped. There came a muted thump as he landed on the thick lawn. Then his figure took off, disappearing into the darkness. Gigi stood rooted to her spot on the balcony, unable to find it in herself to move. All thought of exhaustion and food had left her. In her mind she battled with two worlds. A world she had grown up in and left against the world she had only dreamed of and was within her grasp.

**********************************************************************

Top of the day to you fair reader!

(Props for this go to PauleenRupp)

What are we thinking about Raif? Let's hear it all! 😄

Let's face it, Gigi is completely stupid for doing that to Huck. Honestly, she should jump off a balcony. *sigh* But I guess she's the main character so I can't really do that. 🙄 Well, still I don't like her for being so cruel to adorable, lovable Huck.

To distract you from my character's poor life decisions I'll tell you of my family's poor life decision, it involves a pool, a floaty and a giant wave.

So yeah we broke our pool. It was an above ground pool so it wasn't made of cement. Well, my older brothers discovered that if you took a donut floaty and pushed down really hard on it in the center of the pool it created a wave. Now add five fairly strong kids to that mix and you get one of the biggest waves that can be made in a pool that's only six feet wide and five feet high.

Yeah, the pool did not take well to the abuse.

Epic? Yes. Smart? Not so much. But say what you want, my family is creative.

Worst thing your family has done?

Randrom question: if I were to post a book that was made up of author's notes (kinda like a blog type thing) and updated weekly, would you read it?

Giraffe, apple, pig (This is how Shayray189 says Vote, comment, follow. They are fluent in animal)