“Did Reverend Henderson say something to offend you?” He knew their time was limited and had to force himself to keep from taking her into his arms to demand she tell him what was amiss so he could fix it.
“Joseph.” She pulled her hands from his, regret and fear pinching her face.
His chest tightened, and he shook his head. “It has something to do with Henderson, doesn’t it?”
“The reverend only reminded me of what I already knew.” Pain flashed in her eyes, and it tore at him.
“Allow me to help.” Yet the distance in her demeanor made him worry he couldn’t.
“I’m afraid that’s not possible.” She looked away, and the house was quiet enough that he heard her breath catch.
“I don’t understand.” He reached for her hand again and held it between his. “Especially since everything feels possible when I’m with you.”
“Oh, Joseph.” She pressed her lips together and her eyes glittered with tears. “I wish the situation were different. But I can’t see you again.”
“What do you mean?” he asked, his heart sinking like a stone as she pulled away once more. “Is this because of Miss Melbourne?”
The sound of footsteps echoing in the hall interrupted them.
Bolton came into view, his gaze shifting between them as if realizing he was interrupting something important. “Lady Harriet. Garland.”
Joseph cleared his throat to try to gain his bearings. “Good afternoon, Bolton. Lady Harriet and I were just catching up.”
“Of course.” Bolton nodded, his gaze holding on Harriet with concern. “I hope all is well.”
“Yes.” Harriet gave a single nod as if that was all she could manage. “The literary league meeting has just ended.”
“What is the next book?” Bolton asked, obviously trying to clear the heaviness in the air.
Joseph wasn’t the only one who felt it, though that brought little comfort.
“The Eustace Diamonds.”
“I look forward to hearing more.” Bolton shifted his gaze to Joseph. “My apologies, Garland, but I have a narrow window of time before I have another engagement.”
“Please don’t let me keep you,” Harriet held out a hand, palm out, and it was all Joseph could do not to take it to keep her from leaving. “I must be going.” Her eyes met his and the finality in them sent alarm spiraling through him. “Goodbye.”
“Harriet—” Panic flooded him at the realization that she was saying goodbye for good.
“I’m sorry, Joseph.” She shook her head, her expression resigned. “I wish you happiness.”
Then she hurried out the door, leaving him staring after her, more confused than ever.