Thomas ~ The Protege

A day of coincidence changed the life of a Butler’s son, enabling him to become an educated wealthy gentleman. His gift with numbers proved a powerful tool, placing him on his road to success. Confirming Lord Simon Danvers theory, that given a good education, with diligent effort and a bit of luck, any man, wishing to, may succeed in life.
Thomas Soames became contracted to Lord Simon Danvers, an entrepreneur, who was creating an investment empire, into which Thomas became so enmeshed, it enveloped his life. In exchange, he was provided with entry to a private school, admission to Oxford University for education, acceptance in society, and a generous monthly allowance.
A dinner with some raucous friends, in a pub, by chance, put his foot on the ladder to financial independence.
He never faltered in his commitment. He was, to all intents and purposes, the son Lord Simon Danvers longed for.
A business venture to New York at the behest of Lord Simon, with his lifelong friend and possible heir to the House of Danvers fortune, Devlin Danvers, brought him into contact with a feisty young woman, a relative of Lady Jane Danvers. Her effect on him threatened to upend his planned existence.
Angelina Symes, smart, independent, rule flaunting, outspoken young woman, captured the attention of Thomas Soames. Determinedly she schemed, manipulating her father to travel with Thomas and Devlin Danvers when they returned to England.
As their relationship evolved, Angelina struggled to settle into London society. She constantly challenged him, blatantly demanding his undivided attention.
Thomas grimly hung on to his planned path. He wanted her but was not convinced she would conform, even a little, to fit in the society he moved in. He would not surrender everything he had worked so hard for, his London life, his chateau in Bordeaux to live in America.
He determined not to be seduced, he must be in charge, he would follow his father’s advice, “keep the brain in charge” but it was not always successful.