Arya Stark + Regency AU
It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single woman in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wealthy husband to gift it and her freedom to. However little known the feelings or views of such a woman may be, this truth is so well fixed in the minds of the surrounding families, that she is considered the rightful property of someone or other of their sons. It is inconceivable that she would choose a dreaded spinster’s life when she has the means to secure a husband.
So it was that when Miss Arya Stark, an orphan with a fortune and a head for figures, made it clear she had no intention of marrying, she became something of a scandal. A woman capable of managing her own finances, securing her own investments, and living an independent lifestyle was simply … “unfeminine”.
The harsh judgments and merciless gossip of her peers hurt Arya profoundly. But the freedom and security she gained from the choice more than compensated for any bruised feelings. With the income of her investments, she was able to keep a house in London, give generously to charities, and travel as much as she wished. Despite the initial disapproval of her lifestyle, Arya was able to build a circle of friends and family who loved her and were eager for her society.