“But what about Sir Andrew, is he not herbeau?”
John laughed. “No, his interests lieelsewhere.”
“Then I am truly sorry forher.”
John nodded. “I aswell.”
Susan clasped her hands before her. “John, I need time. I don’t think we should continue our meeting on the school today. I feel we both need some time to think about what has transpired today. At least, I know Ido.”
“Yes, Iagree.”
* * *
Susan desperately wantedto talk to someone about what had just happened. She wanted to see her friend, Katherine, but that was not convenient, and she would not be the most impartial judge, as Daniel was herbrother.
Susan knocked on Clarissa’sdoor.
“Ah, was just thinking about you,” Clarissa greeted. “I saw you walking with Simon. He must beimproving.”
“Yes, I believe he is,” Susan said shyly, but not wanting to talk about Simon. “Clarissa, might I discuss a delicate matter withyou?”
“Of course, come sit by me.” She patted the seat on the sofa next toher.
“It’s about John… andDaniel.”
“Oh… you’d better tell me about this. It suggests a problem. Am Iright?”
Susan nodded and folded her hands in herlap.
“John has declared that he has feelings for me,” Susan saidsoftly.
“Oh, my… And you forhim?”
She nodded. “Yes, I’m afraid Ido.”
“And where is Daniel in all ofthis?”
“Out atsea.”
“Uh huh. Do I detect a possible shift inaffection?”
“Possibly. Yes. Absolutely… I don’t know. Dear Aunt Clarissa, for I think of you as family, what am I to do? How do I figure thisout?”
“Well… This is a development. Not that I’m surprised, mindyou.”
“Really? What makes you say that?” Susanasked.
“Oh, my dear… Are you so unaware of your effect on men? First, there was Simon… although he made a mess of it. Then there was your charming captain. So obviously head over heels… And can you be surprised that John might also havefeelings?”
“But he was so devoted toAnnabel.”
“My dear, she died years ago. He is a man. He is of flesh and blood and he has seen how entirely devoted you are to Elizabeth, how could he be impervious to your other obviouscharms?”
“And you have seen this?” Clarissa nodded. “Then why haven’t you said anything to me aboutthis?”
“It wasn’t my place to do so. He’s a man with his own mind and heart. He must speak for himself—and it seems he has,” she said smilingbroadly.
“But we haven’t addressed my dilemma. How do I reconcile my feeling for both of thesemen?”
