“somehow I don't believe that” James remarked as he watched his friend closely. “Is it about the dance?” He asked further.

Fennel nodded then shook his head. “Not just” he mumbled, as he felt anger running through his veins. But truthfully he wasn't angry but hurt. 

“What else happened?” He asked, both concerned and curious. 

Fennel sighed. “Apparently she is looking for a suitable husband”

James looked rather confused. “Isn't any lady doing that…?”

“Still looking” Fennel added with a snap.

“Oh” James nodded, understanding now what the issue was. “Well that is pitiful” he thought for a moment “but surely the issue is the lacking trust yes?”

Fennel sighed feeling defeated “...hopefully just that” he mumbled really not wanting to talk about it more. James understood the hint and let it be at that.

Back at the Woodherl mansion both Sage and her father sulked. Neither was happy with how the night had proceeded. Anis on the other hand was very pleased. “Finally we got rid of him” she hummed happily as she twirled around. She placed her hands on her niece's shoulders. “Now my sweet we can find you the perfect husband, yes?” She exclaimed happily. Sage just nodded, she too felt defeated. “May I leave for my room?” She asked, clearly upset. “Oh my sweet he is just a man, don't let him drag you down” 

Sage just sighed and left for her room. Her aunt was right, she shouldn't be too down. After all this was the biggest decision of her life. She had to get it right. Still she could have been more sensitive about it. Perhaps explain her reasoning? She sighed as she fell into her bed. She hated all of this.

Her mind wandered off, trying to find a way to make this right again. And suddenly she had an idea. Her gaze wandered to her desk. She immediately jumped up and grabbed a pen and paper.

Fennel's head rang badly. He drowned his sorrows in another bottle of whisky last night. He rested his head on his table as an unpleasant noise shot through his ears. “Urgh…yes” he hissed. Someone was knocking on his door. It was Mary.

“Apologies my Lord but someone brought you a present “ she claimed excitedly and placed it before him. A small basket filled with a beautifully wrapped present. 

Fennel looked at it confused, but a certain herbal smell immediately let him know whom it was from. He hastily unwrapped it. It was the soap Sage had made for him. Alongside it was a small letter.

Apologise my love, until Wednesday 

-yours truly

Sage

Fennel had mix feelings. He was happy she wished to see him still but then again. Her words still ringed in his ears. Perhaps Wednesday would bring some closure. 

He contemplated his next steps. He felt quite upset but didn't wish to be too rude. He had talked it over with Lisbeth and Mary as well. They reminded him that this was her most important decision in life, that might end her life altogether. And that there have been more charming men than him who turned out to be absolute monsters. 

So ultimately, even though he didn't see her personally, he sent flowers to both Sage and Anis on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.