A Lady or a Cock Whore? Ch. 05

Arya stayed home the next two days, using her distress as an excuse to refuse several dinner invitations. Luc recovered in no time, and spent the days sitting with her, reading and talking. Their time together was peaceful and happy; Luc didn't bring their adventure up, knowing that Arya was hiding something, and Arya was happy to leave it that way.

By the time she returned to Varus's social scene everyone had moved onto different topics, and Arya was spared the pain of talking about her ordeal.

It did not keep her from dwelling on it, though. She slept poorly for the next week, upset and wishing she could talk to someone, but knowing it was impossible. She wished Eric could comfort her, but also knew that was impossible. Her only comfort was knowing that she would be leaving soon. She was sick of the people and the politics, and was ready to spend a few weeks in relative solitude.

Everything was arranged for her trip. Eric's sister, Claire, had visited the day after her disastrous ride, asking her aunt if Arya could accompany her to their estate at Langton. Her aunt had given Arya a smug look, correctly guessing that Eric was the one who was really inviting her. Her aunt had readily agreed, hiding her surprise well. Arya walked Claire to the door, curtsying gracefully.

"Thank you for the invitation." Arya said, smiling warmly at the girl.

Claire looked steadily back at Arya, replying, "I did it at Eric's behest, and I can't say I entirely approve." Arya's smile slid off her face.

"However, he seems to like you very much and I love him dearly. So I am looking forward to getting to know you better." She paused, looking Arya up and down. "I only hope you live up to our expectations."

Arya blinked in surprise, before nodding. "I hope I do as well." Claire curtseyed stiffly, and left with a swish of her skirts.

Arya turned back to the house. Well, this may be a bit more interesting than I had expected. She sighed, And I had thought I would be escaping such judgment. Still, it's better than insisting on going home before the season's out and having to explain to my parent's why I left.

Two days later and it was finally the day of the trip. Arya had tried to keep from thinking about spending two whole weeks with Eric, but she couldn't help feeling nervous as it loomed before her.