42 comments

Friendship Historical Fiction Romance

Fair Lady Charity

Carlton gawked at Riley. Riley gawked at Carlton. Then they couldn't help bursting out in laughter.

“Did you see that fool running around like a banshee screeching with his head afire?” Sir Carlton guffawed.

“Then making a beeline to the exit with his bigwig still steaming once the flaming baton twirler doused him with the pail of water?” Sir Riley chortled.

“Never witnessed anything quite so hilarious!” His good friend still snickering choked out.

“How did his pencil neck ever hold up that enormous fancy wig?” Riley tried to get his own giggles under control.

“I think we have a fair young lady to rescue, My Friend.” Carlton urged Riley forward past the departing spectators.

Sir Riley Fenwick and Sir Carlton Winslow, best friends from University days, had spent the better part of a beautiful spring day splurging on the sights and sounds of the popular frolicking market fair. All in good sport during an amateur boxing match in which they challenged each other, Sir Riley was struck senseless first by the mesmerizing eyes a beautiful young lady gazing up at him and then by his friend when he landed a jab Riley didn't see coming. Working together they spent the last couple of hours searching for that mysterious young maiden. Even though they were frequent guests during the current match making season among the landed gentry they had never seen this particular fair maiden at any of the numerous galas and other social events they attended. Sir Riley was sure a special connection had been made between him and the lady and was determined to find her less he never be able to find true happiness.

Unfortunately, she was in the company of another man. An older, self-important man Riley convinced himself was an improper match for her. Although he may be the underdog he was sure it was not too late to convince her to give him a shot. After all there was an accompanying chaperon which meant it was not a sealed deal.

As fortune presented, a freak accident with a flaming baton during a spectacular fire performance had sent her escort running for his life and reputation away from her side. Since she was left defenseless Riley saw this as an opportunity to come to her aide with or without a proper introduction. The two friends elbowed their way to her position at the front of the crowd as people were filing out of the tent.

~~~

The poor girl was in tears in the arms of the chaperon, an older lady. “Oh, Auntie, what are we to do now? We are stranded here.”

“There, there, Charity, My Dear. I'm sure he will be alright and return shortly. He wouldn't desert us. He is supposed to be a respectable gentleman. Even if he is flamboyant.” She couldn't help but chuckle at her own joke. Soon Lady Charity's tears turned to mirth, too.

“Flamboyant is right! His whole poufy peruke was aflame!. Did you see him running in circles trying to put it out? Thank goodness the bucket of water was nearby. Oh, my! Such a kerfuffle!”

“Everyone was laughing. He'll never be able to live down the humiliation. Not with his big ego. No wonder he hasn't been matched years ago.”

~~~

Finally reaching his destination Sir Riley bowed before the smitten young lady proffering his own silky handkerchief, “To dry your tears, Milady.”

“Oh, my. Thank you, kindly, Sir. But I shouldn't...”

“Please forgive our boldness,” Sir Carlton intervened as he slightly bowed, “but we couldn't help but notice your distress at being deserted. Allow me to introduce my friend, the honorable Sir Riley Fenwick of Fenwick Manor in Camberley, Attorney at Law.”

Riley rose and offered, “And this is Sir Carlton Winslow of the esteemed Winslow Estate also in Camberley and also Attorney at Law of our own firm Winslow and Fenwick. Please do the honor of allowing us to be of assistance to yourself and your companion in your time of need. It is much too dangerous for such lovely ladies to be stranded on The Strand alone. Your friend may not come back to your assistance. He seemed preoccupied with his own needs, if I may be so blunt.”

“I am afraid you gentlemen may be right about that.” The chaperon took the lead. “Allow me to introduce Lady Charity of Farnsworth.”

“And this is my aunt Dowager Countess Dianna Honeyfield.”

“It looks like another fiery performance is being readied. May I suggest we treat you to some lemonade at a nearby stand while we figure our next plan of action? We will be able to see if your escort does return. Ladies, please follow me.” Riley weaved their way through the gathering new spectators with the ladies following and Carlton bringing up the rear.

Once settled with cooling drinks in hand conversation flowed freely among the new acquaintances all the while keeping eyes peeled for the hairless deserter.

Up close and personal it was apparent the chaperon was not as elderly as the two gentlemen were envisioning. The wide brimmed sunhat and the drab gray day dress had been deceiving. She was maybe only a few years older than the entrepreneurial men of law who had started their own firm after graduate school a couple of years previous. Actually, she was very attractive with green eyes and chestnut hair in soft curls caressing a slender neck although not the raving beauty the other miss was with her hazel eyes and fair hair cascading in tendrils beneath her bonny bonnet. More from the last century the Countess's dress was an ornately shirred shirt-waist dress with ample petticoats and stays accentuating her generous bosom whereas the Lady's dress was a more modern light weight material flowing gown falling from below the bust line. The soft material hugged her lithe figure with every gust of spring breeze.

Lady Charity started to reach for Sir Riley's bruised eye but quickly pulled back allowing her eyelids to flutter down looking towards her lap creating a serene countenance upon her porcelain features. She shyly peeked back up through long lashes, “Ooh, does that hurt much?”

Sir Riley finished the gesture as he gently fingered the injury, “Not really so much. I have had far worse. Chap threw a lucky punch as I was distracted by a lovely vision in white. My heart was sorely bruised when I thought I may never see you again. We are so pleased we have made your acquaintance now.”

“I thought you were magnificent in your bravery. Such prowess!”

“I'm afraid Miss Charity has not been exposed to such manly displays before.” Countess Dianna remarked.

“It didn't take much bravery to be knocked flat on my back. Sorry you had to witness that. We have decided we'll do a rematch with epees.”

“But you may be even more seriously hurt with swords.” Charity worried.

“Not a chance. It's all in good sport and I always best my friend fencing. If I may say so myself.”

“That remains to be proven. We compete in all sorts of good fun. But I dare say at this point it appears your fancy peacock is not going to make a reappearance. Would you allow us to see you safely home?” Sir Carlton ventured.

“That would be most appreciated, kind sir.” The pretty dowager assured.

“Since we arrived in a single two-seater curricle it may be best for us to go to The Strand Palace Hotel nearby and hire a messenger to send for a turnout from your estate to fetch you. It may not appear honorable to take you there ourselves. We can have dinner while we await the coach. Would you agree to that plan?” Carlton questioned.

“That seems sensible.” Countess Dianna agreed.

“Please don't think me out of line but I must admit I do not see the benefit of a proper match for such an incomparable beauty such as your niece to that pipsqueak of a man.” Sir Riley dared speak his mind. “You may even be able to take legal action against him for breech of confidence. The nerve of him deserting the two of you!”

“I suppose we have gotten to know both you well enough to believe you are trustworthy gentlemen we can share a little secret with you. You see, my dear Charity was posing as the chaperon for myself and that appalling charlatan. We have reason to believe he was only interested in obtaining the heightened title he would achieve by marrying me, a countess. He is only a baron and very much wants to rise in stature. Of course, that will never come to be with me. Charity's mother, my sister-in-law, sister to my late husband, recently passed away and Charity wasn't feeling up to joining in the festivities of this season so decided to wait a year to participate as a debutante.”

“We are very sorry for your loss but that explains why I have never seen you at any events.” Sir Riley addressed the fair Lady Charity. “Dare I ask would you have any objection to me requesting your father if I may start calling on you? If not immediately then whenever you are ready. It's undeniable we have made a special connection. In your presence I feel like I've come home for the very first time.”

“You do flatter me, Sir Fenwick. I would indeed be pleased if my father would grant your wish. Your friend, Sir Winslow, may also be pleased that my aunt, too, is a member of our household under my father's tutelage so Father may grant him permission to call upon her as well. He is hosting a foxhunt in a fortnight. Perhaps we could procure an invite for you.”

“Now that would be welcome news to a couple of courting underdogs such as ourselves. Please present our calling cards to him for us.”

June 27, 2024 17:27

You must sign up or log in to submit a comment.

42 comments

Daniel R. Hayes
19:36 Jul 08, 2024

Hi Mary! I read this late last night, but wanted to leave my comments now that I have time. I thought this story was amazing! Truly. Each time I read something from you is just bliss. You have such a creative mind! I loved the friendship aspect in this story and the characters are awesome. I think you could do a follow up! The flow was perfect and as usual your word choices and descriptions are spot on and paint a perfect picture in my mind! Carlton and Riley are great characters! Great job as always...I loved this! :)

Reply

Mary Bendickson
22:44 Jul 08, 2024

High praise indeed coming from one with your talent. Thanks🤗 If a fitting prompt comes up I may resurrect them.🤔

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Irene Duchess
02:46 Jul 08, 2024

A wonderful finish! Seems as if they both got a fair lady. Perhaps there'll be a fox hunt....? :)

Reply

Mary Bendickson
03:56 Jul 08, 2024

If a prompt fis maybe.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
12:28 Jul 04, 2024

Finally caught up on these chaps escapades. Very enjoyable read methinks there may be a continuation? You seem to be on to something here with these characters

Reply

Mary Bendickson
12:38 Jul 04, 2024

Nice idea if I can make that happen. Fox Hunt anyone?😜

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Daniel Rogers
23:20 Jul 02, 2024

They are bold chaps. 🤣 But what do they say about the bold? Well done connecting the stories and fulfilling the prompts.

Reply

Mary Bendickson
00:08 Jul 03, 2024

Glad it made you laugh.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Jim LaFleur
09:51 Jul 02, 2024

What a delightful read! Your vivid descriptions and charming characters transported me back in time. The humor and romance were perfectly balanced. Well done!

Reply

Mary Bendickson
16:35 Jul 02, 2024

Thanks you. Glad you enjoyed the trip.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Hannah Lynn
00:05 Jul 02, 2024

Well done! I could picture the scenes perfectly as you described them so well!

Reply

Mary Bendickson
00:22 Jul 02, 2024

Thanks.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
John McPhee
20:49 Jun 30, 2024

Well done Mary! I felt as though I had travelled back in time. Very enjoyable indeed!

Reply

Show 0 replies
Kay Smith
20:45 Jun 30, 2024

"...had sent her escort running for his life and reputation..." --LOL!! "Even if he is flamboyant.” She couldn't help but chuckle at her own joke." -- Lol!! "... kerfluffle..." -- I feel this word is under-utilized in everyday language! :) Another wonderful story, Mary!

Reply

Mary Bendickson
20:55 Jun 30, 2024

Thanks.😊

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
McKade Kerr
19:37 Jun 30, 2024

What a fun story to read! Great work describing the characters and scenes, and putting plenty of humor in it too!

Reply

Mary Bendickson
19:44 Jun 30, 2024

So happy you liked it!😊

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Stevie Burges
08:51 Jun 30, 2024

Good story Mary. Enjoyed it. Thanks for writimg.

Reply

Mary Bendickson
19:00 Jun 30, 2024

Thanks for commenting.😁

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
VJ Hamilton
00:22 Jun 30, 2024

Hi Mary, this is such a creative take on the competition -- of courting! I love how you took the historical perspective. Enjoyed this gem: "Flamboyant is right! His whole poufy peruke was aflame!" Thanks for the fun read.

Reply

Mary Bendickson
18:30 Jun 30, 2024

Thanks! 😄 trying to tie up loose ends from previous two weeks.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Nina H
23:45 Jun 29, 2024

What a fun trip in time 😄

Reply

Mary Bendickson
18:28 Jun 30, 2024

Thanks! 😊

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Rebecca Lewis
20:15 Jun 29, 2024

Hey, I enjoyed reading your story! It has a great mix of humor and romance that’s super charming. Keep it up!

Reply

Mary Bendickson
20:29 Jun 29, 2024

Thanks so much. This may be it for this cast.

Reply

Rebecca Lewis
20:35 Jun 30, 2024

I enjoyed them very much.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Show 1 reply
Darvico Ulmeli
08:49 Jun 29, 2024

This kind of story is not so "attractive" to me, but I don't feel bored when I read your stories. I read them in the blink of an eye, and I feel good. Keep up the good writing.

Reply

Mary Bendickson
19:15 Jun 29, 2024

I like to keep them short and easy to follow. Thanks for reading even if not your thing.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
08:20 Jun 29, 2024

Ooo, the plot thickens. The lady has a name and she is a lady, indeed. Her companion a countess. And they are not fond of the wigged guy who had been accompanying them before his timely accident. Not that accidents are usually timely. Love it, Mary.

Reply

Mary Bendickson
19:12 Jun 29, 2024

Thank you.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Alexis Araneta
16:22 Jun 28, 2024

Ah, the return of the duo. Quite a fun read, this one ! Lovely work !

Reply

Mary Bendickson
16:43 Jun 28, 2024

Thanks again.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Trudy Jas
11:10 Jun 28, 2024

Mary, I do believe you may have found a gold mine. The ongoing quest for lady Charity's affections. 😘

Reply

Mary Bendickson
13:53 Jun 28, 2024

Thank you.😊

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Annie Persson
10:52 Jun 28, 2024

... And they live happily ever after! What a nice end to such a lovely story! I really do feel like I've been transported back in time when I read this story, the language and descriptions just go so well with the setting. I really love this little series, and I can't wait for more of your stories! :)

Reply

Mary Bendickson
13:52 Jun 28, 2024

You are too kind. Thank you.😊

Reply

Annie Persson
18:05 Jun 30, 2024

You're welcome. And I'm only saying what's true. :)

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Show 1 reply
23:03 Jun 27, 2024

An interesting story. Sir Riley Fenwick is a wonderful character. I like reading historical stories, and this one is splendid. I like both the male characters they both seem-for lack of better words-cute.

Reply

Mary Bendickson
23:55 Jun 27, 2024

Glad you liked it. Third one with these cute guys.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
Johanna Parry
19:02 Jun 27, 2024

I really do enjoy the Bridgerton series! This reminds me so much of that! Thank you, Mary. Very entertaining.

Reply

Mary Bendickson
23:54 Jun 27, 2024

Thanks for liking and commenting.

Reply

Show 0 replies
Show 1 reply
RBE | Illustrated Short Stories | 2024-06

Bring your short stories to life

Fuse character, story, and conflict with tools in Reedsy Studio. 100% free.