“Harriet, I have to ask.” He pulled a folded paper from his inner pocket, and her heart sank. “Did you write these?”
She hesitated, wishing she could answer honestly. But how could she when she hadn’t told Frances the truth? But neither could she lie to Joseph. “No.”
He frowned, making her wonder if he sensed her unease. It took a moment for her to realize she’d just admitted she knew what he held since she hadn’t asked what it was. Nor had she shown any surprise.
“But you know who did,” he suggested.
“Yes.” She closed her eyes briefly, wishing they weren’t having this conversation now.
“Was it Miss Melbourne?”
Harriet opened her eyes to look at him in surprise. Did she confirm it or keep Frances’ secret? She didn’t want to hurt her friend, but neither did she want to ruin the possibility of a future with Joseph.
It was an impossible choice.
She reached for his empty hand and took it in hers, hoping the right answer would come to her. “Joseph, I—”
“Harriet?”
Harriet looked over to see Frances emerging from the ballroom with Mr. Sinclair directly behind her, her gaze fixed on their connected hands. Harriet quickly released Joseph but knew it was too late. Her friend had already seen their touch.
Frances stared between them, eyes wide with a mix of hurt and surprise. “I don’t understand...”
“Frances, I didn’t mean for this to happen,” Harriet began, her heart aching. That much was true. She only hoped her friend didn’t ask what it was that had happened because she couldn’t explain.
Tears filled Frances’ eyes as she backed away. Then with a sob, she spun and ran inside.
Chapter Twelve
Joseph watched MissMelbourne rush away with Sinclair following, calling her name.
A glance at Harriet’s stricken expression had him taking a step closer to her. While he didn’t precisely understand what had just occurred or why the lady was upset, he had an idea and couldn’t help but think he was to blame.
“Joseph, I’m sorry,” Harriet began before he could say anything.
“I feel as if I’m the one who should apologize.” He waited a moment, hoping she’d explain.