Despite her protestations, Adelia agreed to change her outfit for the dinner that would welcome their guest. Anna, Adelia’s favorite of the maids, assisted her.

‘They say he’s very handsome,’ whispered Anna, as she slid a blue brocade bodice around Adelia’s chest.

‘Who says that?’ Adelia tried not to gasp too hard for breath as she spoke.

‘Everyone,’ said Anna with a giggle. ‘I heard the wife of a Count, I’m not saying which one, was found on her knees on his doorstep. She was begging for just one more night with him, as if she were his slave. Can you imagine a woman of such standing humiliating herself in...