Harriet pressed her lips together. “I took it as a sign that I wasn’t ready. In truth, I wasn’t.” She couldn’t help but trail a finger over her chest, reminding herself why she believed that.
“You see, Joseph caught my notice at a ball,” Harriet began, her heart aching at the thought that she’d hurt Frances. “Though we were introduced, we didn’t dance. But he was still so kind. So handsome. It was as if a spark inside me had been lit. Each time I saw him afterward, it grew a little brighter.”
Frances nodded. “I know just what you mean.”
“Then I encountered him the week before the party on Bond Street. His mother nearly stepped in front of a passing carriage, and I managed to catch her in time. I thought he and I had a moment of connection only to realize he didn’t remember me. Then when the house party began, he mistook me for you, which made it clear that I was quite unmemorable. At least, to him.” Harriet sighed. “I had no idea you cared for him until you told me.”
“He seems to like you.” Frances sniffed again. “Much more than he likes me.”
“I don’t suppose he’s had much of a chance to know you as of yet.”
Frances closed her eyes. “I wish I could act normal when I’m near gentlemen, but I can’t seem to. My throat closes and I can hardly force out any words if I happen to think of them.”
“You’ve done well the last few days.”
Frances sent her a doubtful look.
“It’s true. Each evening, you’ve visited more and more with the guests, gentlemen included.”
“I suppose that’s true.”
“Perhaps it feels like only small steps of progress, but it’s still progress,” Harriet pointed out.
“So often it is an uphill battle.”
“Mr. Sinclair seems to think well of you. He’s downstairs, quite worried.” At least, Harriet assumed so from his expression.
“Truly?” Frances blinked. “I shouldn’t have left him the way I did.”
“May I ask how long you’ve cared for Joseph?”
Frances stared across the room. “Several months. Since before Phoebe suggested the bold move.”
Not so different than Harriet.
“Do you think he’s the one?” Harriet asked, uncertain if her friend would answer.
“I did at first. When he brought me that glass of lemonade, his kindness captured my heart. Now I’m not so certain.” She glanced at Harriet from beneath her lashes. “I find Thomas quite attractive as well.”
“He is rather handsome.”
“Yes.” A small smile played about her lips. “He’s gone out of his way to make me more comfortable. The day we were playing charades, he told me he thought I had the loveliest eyes. Can you believe that?”
“You do have lovely eyes.”
“But I also like Viscount Garland.” Her brow puckered, much like Harriet’s heart.
It seemed clear there was only one thing she could do though the thought of it hurt more deeply than her scars had.
“I realize the party is almost over, but I will keep my distance and allow you more time to decide how you feel for each of them.” The idea made her entire body ache, but it seemed the least she could do. Besides, how could anything come from what she felt for Joseph? It had been ridiculous of her to think it was possible.
“Are you certain?” Frances asked.
“It’s the least I could do. I’m sorry I didn’t do so sooner.”
“How could you have without being rude? It’s impossible to avoid any of the guests.”
“True.” Really, this was for the best. Besides, Frances might be able to help sway her father into assisting Joseph with his bank. “Again, I’m so sorry, Frances. I hope you can forgive me.”