Prologue

"So, young lady," said Branson. "Tell me your story."

I looked up at Leland, who smiled and nodded, then turned my gaze to our guest. "What do you want to know?" I asked.

The older man, who in truth reminded me quite pleasantly of my own father, leaned forward eagerly. "Everything."

I couldn't help but laugh. "Do you really want to know everything?"

He nodded. "I do."

I looked to Leland again and he reached for my hand under the table, giving it an affectionate, encouraging squeeze. I smiled at him, then schooled my expression before turning once again to the man across the table.

"Well then, as Elizabeth said to Darcy's cousin … prepare yourself for something very dreadful…"