After one last look in Sarah’s direction, reluctantly, she acquiesced, her expression a mix of resignation and apprehension as she fell into step beside him.
They walked in silence, the distance between them and the rest of the family providing a semblance of privacy for their impending conversation. Henry, a man of few words, wasted no time in getting to the heart of the matter.
"We must discuss the matter of you providing an heir to the duke," His words were direct, leaving no room for evasion or delay.
Jane's heart raced at the weight and suddenness of his words, the gravity of the situation settling heavily upon her shoulders. She coughed then steeled herself, meeting his gaze with nonchalance.
“Is that what we’re out here to discuss?” Despite her heart thumping loudly in her chest, she rolled her eyes in frustration. "I don't want to speak on it, Father,” She stated firmly, shaking her head. "Such a matter is between me and the duke, not for you to meddle in."
Her father fell silent for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, with a tone that brooked no argument, he continued, "Every man desires an heir, Jane. It is essential that you focus on providing His Grace with one. This is of utmost importance."
His words hung heavily between them, laden with expectation and duty. At last, he sighed and his tone shifted slightly, “I only say this out of concern for you. You have been thriving.”
He paused and stared at her matter-of-factly. “It would be a shame to lose all of this because you couldn’t focus on your duty.”
Jane's frown deepened as she lapsed into a contemplative silence, her thoughts swirling with questions and uncertainties as his words echoed in her head. To her dismay, she could not find a counter.
As they walked on in quiet companionship, the weight of his words danced around in the air, casting a shadow over the morning stroll.
Jane couldn't shake the nagging curiosity that tugged at her mind. It was not the first time she had contemplated this matter. Did Colin truly desire an heir, and if so, why had he not taken steps to secure one?
She had no desire to pressure him. However, the unanswered questions danced in her thoughts, wishing they could be provided a response immediately.
