You’re late for the dinner and arrive after Edward (<80% TRUST)

The hours slipped away far more quickly than you had intended. You spent time with the servants and young gentlemen and wandered the estate in your own thoughts - thinking about the future and your time and experiences these past couple of days.

By the time you finally glanced at one of the longcase clocks standing in the corridor, your heart immediately sank.

The farewell dinner.

You were late.

Edward would already have gone down without you.

You quickened your pace through the now bustling corridors, narrowly avoiding a pair of footmen carrying silver platters towards the dining room.

Somewhere nearby, the chapel bells finished their final peal.

The evening had already begun.

You paused only briefly outside your chamber to straighten your coat and smooth your hair with one hand.

It would have to do.

As you approached the dining room, the muffled sound of conversation drifted through the heavy oak doors.

A footman stationed outside noticed your arrival.

"Good evening."

He offered the faintest hint of an amused smile before opening the door.

The room beyond was already alive with conversation.

Candles illuminated the long table.

Crystal glasses caught the warm light.

Guests had begun enjoying the first course.

You quietly slipped inside, doing your utmost not to draw attention.

It almost worked.

Sir Edward happened to glance towards the entrance. As well as a couple of amused young gentlemen.

For the briefest moment, your eyes met.

He didn't frown.

Nor did he look particularly surprised.

Instead, the smallest smile tugged at the corner of his mouth before he calmly returned his attention to the conversation around him.

Relief washed over you.

You moved quietly to your accustomed place behind his chair, resuming your duties as though nothing unusual had happened.

When an opportunity finally presented itself, Edward leaned back ever so slightly.

"I trust your afternoon proved... worthwhile."

His voice carried just enough amusement to make you smile.

"It did, sir."

There was no reprimand.

You couldn't help wondering whether he had chosen not to ask any further questions.

Or whether he already knew the answer.

Either way, the evening continued.

Whatever adventures had delayed you...

...they would remain your own, at least for a while.