Toby smiled at his reflection in the mirror. He could barely believe the way his life had altered in just 5 short months!
At the age of 37, living alone with his widowed mother in rural splendour, he had assumed that his chances of marriage and happiness had passed him by.
He had led a sheltered life, under the firm guidance of his female parent and had never had a girlfriend, let alone a serious relationship. Consequently, despite his early middle-age, he was still, very much a virgin.
Slim and unimposing, he was nevertheless, quite good looking, though painfully shy with strangers... especially those of the female gender. Since leaving full-time education, he seldom experienced company beyond that of his mother, who insisted that he lived and worked at the family home.
Luckily his mother, Mrs Campbell, was a wealthy woman. Indeed, Toby would one day inherit the considerable family fortune. There was really no need at all for him to work, but he did manage to occupy his long lonely days with some on-line share and currency dealing on behalf of his mother. His performance in this field was however somewhat lacking, as she regularly pointed out.
Mrs Campbell had been a society beauty, and even at the advanced age of 63, could attract male attention. Unlike her son, she maintained a circle of friends and acquaintances in the locality. One such, was Cecily; a woman of similar standing and outlook, whom she had met at various charity functions.
Cecily Granger, aged 52 was an attractive divorcee with comfortable means and a love of all things equestrian. Like Toby's mother she lived in a large country house, with her only child; Lucinda, a lovely young woman of 25 years.
6 months ago, the two friends had concluded that their respective offspring might make a most 'convenient' match. They decided to make introductions and foster a romantic relationship. Suitable arrangements were made.
Lucinda and her mother had always been very close and open. In particular, Mrs Granger had made sure to pass on to her daughter a full understanding of sex, male desires, perversions and weaknesses. Once the 'courtship' had started, mother and daughter had quickly discussed the best ways to manipulate the situation to their advantage.
Lucinda, like her mother, was sexually experienced. She had broken the hearts of several young males and had had affairs with two older married men. She had often been described as 'stunning', with her slim curvaceous figure, long lustrous chestnut hair and sexy legs.
Naturally, the couple were closely 'chaperoned' at all times and it was not until their sixth meeting that Toby was able to plant a kiss on Lucinda's cheek.
Understandably, Toby was rather in awe, when in her presence. It was clear that she would need to take the lead, if the relationship was to advance. She was quite aware of his background and limitations, but willing to conspire in his 'capture' to secure her (and her mother's) unimpeded financial future.
One afternoon, Toby's mother invited him to sit and discuss his 'relationship'. Of course, she had been made fully aware of its progress, from her friend, but wished to hear of Toby's feelings, directly.
Awkward and stuttering as usual, Toby nevertheless managed to covey the extent of his admiration for Lucinda. He was clearly smitten, but unsure how to progress.
Mrs Campbell was most reassuring to her son........offering encouragement and dismissing his feelings of nervousness and inadequacy. She explained that she had talked to Lucinda's mother about the 'courtship', and received some most welcome feedback. Indeed, it was apparent that a formal approach from Toby would be warmly welcomed!
Arrangements were made therefore, for Toby to visit Mrs Granger, to discuss the possibility of marriage to her daughter.
It was a timid and flushed man who arrived at Lucinda's home....to visit the woman who would determine his future life. An elderly housekeeper, Edna Groves, showed him into a grand reception room. He sat down on the edge of an opulent sofa, and waited.
Eventually, Cecily Granger made her appearance. She was as usual, dressed beautifully in a tight-fitting calf-length silk floral dress and groomed impeccably. Toby stood awkwardly but she graciously gestured for him to resume his seat.
Effortlessly, She made small talk and tried to put poor Toby at his ease, though she was quite aware of the effect her appearance and formidable character was having. Eventually, she brought the mainly one-sided 'conversation' to its purpose.
"Well Toby, I gather from your mother, that you have strong feelings for my daughter. Is there something that you wish to ask me?"
Toby was taken aback at her directness, but somehow managed to compose himself: "I love Lucinda. I'd like to marry her. Can I propose to her Mrs Granger?"
"How delightful, Toby. Yes, of course you may. I have taken the liberty of discussing the possibility with my daughter and I think you will find her most receptive!"
Toby blushed. "Oh, thank you, thank you...I wasn't sure......"
"No need for that. All being well, I will arrange for you to be alone with her. However, there are some important issues I need to raise with you. I will need your full cooperation on certain matters."