Such an intriguing start - I like the idea of the old-fashioned aristocracy being the modern day business world, and Mary as such deeply involved in that world, but still encountering that proverbial glass ceiling. Makes such sense in today's world, unfortunately. Love M/M's meeting, and the wordplay with "Bitter." (hee!) And I ADORE Eddie/Edith - I think that is SO clever...making her close to Mary, making Patrick be the one who destroyed her life and making her so *literally* damaged. Great way to define Mary's character, too. :) Also: "David Martin" in the 1920s. Of course. ;) Can't wait for more - update SOON! :D

Goodness, it's just the first chapter and I'm already head over heels for this new fic of yours. I love the not-quite-AUishness of it and the little touches you put in (Matthew's swagger, for one). I already love Edith (Eddie, rather) here, too. Cannot wait for more from you.

OK. I love it. I'm hooked, so please don't decide to just drop the subject! Thanks for something intriguing & interesting to read on a drab day in February :-)