As she exited the room, Philip let out a breath he had not realized he was holding. “Thank you, Thomas. I don’t know how much more of this I can take.”
Thomas chuckled. “I can see that. But you must confront this, Philip. Avoiding it will only prolong your agony.”
Philip nodded, knowing his friend was right. “I need to find a way to communicate my feelings to her. To make her understand that I cannot simply marry for convenience.”
“Perhaps Lady Verity can help you find that clarity,” Thomas suggested. “Sometimes, when you meet someone who resonates with you deeply, they can provide insights you never considered.”
Philip’s mind drifted back to Lady Verity. Her warmth, her intelligence, the way her presence had immediately put him atease. Maybe Thomas was right. Maybe Verity could help him navigate this emotional turmoil.
Philip sighed heavily, running a hand through his hair. “You are right, Thomas. I need to confront this situation head on. But how? My mother is relentless, and I don’t want to hurt her, yet I cannot simply capitulate to her wishes.”
Thomas leaned forward; his eyes serious. “You need to have a candid conversation with her. Lay out your feelings clearly and firmly. If she understands how deeply you feel about this, she might relent.”
Philip nodded slowly. “It will not be easy, but you are right. I must make her understand.”
Thomas smiled encouragingly. “And in the meantime, don’t lose sight of what your heart is telling you. If Lady Verity has stirred something within you, you owe it to yourself to explore that.”
“I suppose I should find a way to see her again,” he mused aloud.
Thomas grinned. “Now that is the spirit. Take control of your destiny, Philip. You have more power over your future than you realize.”
Philip nodded, feeling a sense of determination settle within him.
“Enough about my troubles anyway. Tell me more about your travels. I am curious to hear about the women you met. I wish to live vicariously through you for the moment.”
Thomas chuckled, leaning back in his chair. “Ah, where to begin? My travels have taken me to many places, and I have met many fascinating people along the way.”
Philip leaned forward, eager to hear more. “Do tell.”
Thomas smiled, a faraway look in his eyes. “In Paris, I met a young lady named Colette. She was an artist, passionate and full of life. Her creativity was infectious, and I found myself inspiredby her zest for life. We spent many evenings discussing art, philosophy, and the world at large. It was a refreshing change from the rigidity of our society.”
Philip listened intently, captivated by his friend’s stories. Especially when this woman reminded him a little of Verity. “She sounds wonderful. Did you ever consider staying in Paris?”
“For a time, yes,” Thomas admitted. “But ultimately, I knew my heart belonged back home. There is something about England, despite its flaws, which keeps pulling me back.”
Philip nodded in understanding. “And who else?”
“In Italy, I met a woman named Isabella. She was the daughter of a count, and her beauty was matched only by her intelligence. We toured the vineyards and explored ancient ruins. Isabella had a remarkable knowledge of history, and I found our conversations both enlightening and engaging. She challenged me in ways I had never been challenged before.”
Philip raised an eyebrow. “Challenged you? How so?”
Thomas laughed. “She had a way of seeing through my defenses. She pushed me to question my beliefs and to grow as a person. It was both exhilarating and humbling.”
“And yet, you did not stay in Italy either,” Philip remarked.
“No, I did not,” Thomas said softly. “Each encounter was meaningful, but none felt like home. My heart knew I needed to return here, to the familiar, even if it meant facing old challenges.”
Philip sighed, understanding the sentiment all too well. “It seems we are both searching for something elusive.”
CHAPTER 9
Lady Beatrice always held the most lavish events. She was known for her opulence and impeccable guest lists. Her balls were one of the most popular soirees in the Season. Everyone was very much looking forward to the ball, but Verity could not garner the same excitement. Even in her finest gown, with her hair styled in the most complicated looking chignon, she felt out of place.
Henry had not even taken her into the ballroom yet, and the nerves had gripped tightly on to her. She could not shake them off however hard she tried.
“Oh, it sounds rather busy already,” her mother declared as soon as she stepped off the carriage. “I am sure that tonight will be a lot of fun.”
If only Verity could get caught up in that feeling. The closer they stepped to the crowds, and the more that she could hear of the chatter and laughter from the ton inside, the more anxious she felt.
