Harriet’s smile grew as the young woman acquiesced so humbly, bringing her flawless complexion and sweet nature that little bit closer to Harriet’s table. It was a terribly tiring business finding appropriate prospects for her sons but she felt a warm sense of possibility with Miss Fawley and practically glowed with triumph of finding somebody who would require no polishing – honestly she was practically aflutter herself!

“Well my dear regrets certainly aren’t for the likes of us so do sit down,” she invited again, knowing this time Miss Fawley would take the seat offered. It was so very thrilling to find a fully-faceted diamond just waiting to dazzle that Harriet allowed herself a small smile, tapping the coin in her pocket inconspicuously to let Hermione know to take her time. “Are you looking forward to the new season?”

Was it her fifth? Sixth? Harriet was quite sure the young lady had been on the scene for a little while now but it was far from a detrimental state – in fact Harriet was rather giddy at the thought of a debutante honed to such perfection!