“No. Not that.” Weston replied, cutting him off. “But wehavegrown closer these past few days. I join her in the gardens, and we talk.”
Charles shared in his friend's happiness. Of course, this was all he had ever wanted, for Weston to find a silver lining in the terrible situation he had found himself in. He just didn't think it would happen so fast.
“What do you talk about?” He asked.
Weston shrugged. “Everything. Nothing. That is the best part. We do not have to act up to some moral code or instill any kind of formality. We just sit and talk. Well, that is a bit of an embellishment. I sit and talk while she works.”
“That is quite fascinating. So you have realised you might like her after all.”
Weston raised his hands in defense. “Let us not jump to conclusions here. I have only said I have found her to be a wonderful companion. I never said anything about love or like. Our marriage is still very much duty-bound.”
“Right. So you do not think your relationship will ever move past gardens?”
“And rides.” Weston admitted. Charles frowned at his words in confusion. “We both went for rides yesterday. She took Richard’s horse.”
Charles froze. “She took what?”
“I am aware of how surprising that is, as well.”
“That damn horse almost killed me when I tried to go near it, and what, he did nothing to her?”
“That is basically what happened. They found a connection quickly.”
Charles started to walk again, his arms folded over his chest.
“Interesting. The horse likes her.”
“She gave it a name as well. Richard.”
“After Richard?”
“I will assume so, yes.”
They walked further for a little more, and soon, their tied horses came into view.
“So you went on a ride with her into town yesterday?”
“Yes. I did.” Weston responded.
“And you are still of the opinion that she is only a wonderful companion?”
Weston shrugged. “Yes.”
“Do I really need to spell it out for you, Weston? You're falling in love with her.”
Weston laughed. “I think I would know if I fell in love with someone. Let alone Juliet.”
“Indeed. A few weeks ago, you wouldn't even touch her with a stick if you could help it. Now you're leaving time away to follow her to gardens and take her on rides, and you still think she is nothing but a companion?”
“Precisely.” Weston replied. “She is my source of peace whenever my mother tries to start another war of hers around the house, nothing more.”
Charles reached for Weston's shoulder and squeezed it gently. “I shall let you figure this one out on your own.”
Weston frowned. “There is nothing to figure out. I just told you.”
They began to untie the ropes to their horses.
“And again, I said I shall let you work it out. Do not worry. I shall be here for you when you do.”
