Regency England, 1821. Mary Prosper is the maid of Margaret Wilson; Margaret is the best friend and personal companion of Harriet Benson, who lives with her and her new husband at Wingham House. Mary secretly witnesses nights of irregular sexual behaviour between Margaret and the Bensons. How can she use this knowledge to her advantage? When Mary leaves service at Wingham House, it looks as if all is lost. But she is a survivor. She discovers erotic intimacy with a wealthy, lonely soul but, before their sensual association can lead anywhere, he undergoes his own crisis. Can they find a future together? (12,100 words)