[Perceptions 05] • A Sense of Turmoil

With the countess’s health failing, Flora knows that Luke Beranger, the Earl of Swindon, will want to be with her grandmother during her final days. Luke returns from a prolonged visit to his family’s estate in Boston, bringing with him Miss Ottilie Fleming and her brother George, who has been managing the Beranger’s interests in America for the past ten years.

Flora suspects that Luke plans to propose to Ottilie. Suppressing her jealousy, she can sense no harm in Ottilie. The same cannot be said for her brother, whom Flora had been advised by Remus, her quixotic spirit guide, has ulterior motives.

Bereft by the death of the countess, Flora and Luke argue violently when she advises caution in respect of George Fleming. Luke makes accusations that he later regrets but cannot withdraw and which Flora cannot neither forgive nor ignore. Hounded by her family, only Archie Hardwick, now the Marquess Felsham, continues to offer her his support.

Heartbroken, Flora makes good on her intention to leave Beranger Court and set up home alone. But will her ambitious father leaver her in peace, and are Luke and Archie willing to let her go…