“About what? Please share your burden with me. Perhaps I can offer some assistance.”
Tears leaked from Kathryn’s eyes and rolled down her cheeks. “I don’t think anyone can help me.”
“Why do you say that? There’s always a choice to be made.”
“Not for me, I’m afraid.”
“Kathryn, may I speak plainly?”
“Of course. You are a very dear friend, and I value your counsel.”
“Are you unsettled because of Mr. Clifford?”
Kathryn gasped. “No… um… why would you think that?”
Audrey squeezed her hand. “My dear friend, I have eyes in my head, and I’ve seen your enthusiasm when talking with him about the garden design, as well as all the longing in your faces when you look at each other. Have I guessed wrong? I don’t wish to overstep.”
Kathryn jumped up and began pacing. “Everything is all wrong. It’s an impossible situation.”
“Why is it wrong? If you’ve developed atendrefor him and he feels the same, then I don’t see why that is wrong. Love should be celebrated, should it not?”
Kathryn slumped down on the settee once again. “Don’t you see? Mr. Clifford is far below my station. My father would never approve of a match between us.”
“I see. However, I believe my question to you is much more important than either of your stations in life.”
“What question?”
“Do you love him?”
Kathryn started to deny it and then nodded. “With all my heart. He’s the only man who has ever wanted to spend time and talk with me. He makes me feel so special. No gentleman in London ever took the time to converse beyond bland tidbits about the weather when they danced with me. I know I only attracted their attention because of my dowry.”
“Have you told Mr. Clifford of your feelings?”
“I could never.”
“Why? Does he not share your feelings?”
“I believe he does.”
“Well then, there’s only one thing for you to do.”
“Really? What do you recommend?”
“Kathryn, it’s time to be bold and declare your feelings. Mr. Clifford will never mention his feelings unless you give him some encouragement. If you want to have a life with him, you must act, or I fear your father will deny your request without argument.”
“I fear Papa will deny it no matter what. My father values appearances amongst thetonabove all else.”
“Maybe, but you’ll never know if you don’t try. Perhaps if you spoke to your mother about your feelings first.”
“I could never do that. She wishes me to marry a peer. I would hate to disappoint her.”
“I’m sure your mother wishes you to be happy, and if you tell her how happy Mr. Clifford makes you, then she may be able to convince your father to allow the marriage.” Audrey stood and kissed Kathryn’s cheek. “Think of what I’ve said, my dear.”
“I will. Thank you, Audrey.”
After Audrey left her bedchamber, Kathryn thought about everything her friend had said. She’d never been brave, but she’d never wanted anything so much as she wanted to be with Mr. Clifford.
He was her heart, and she could be brave for him.