Trent scooted up closer to the table, leaned on his arms, picked up a biscuit, and asked, “Tellall.”
Emily laid out the Duke’s proposal and the seeming impossibility of taking up the offer because of her father’s insistence on the inviolability of thetrio.
“And what did you tell your father and sisters after you returned from themeeting?”
Emily blushed. “I lied. I said they were working on a proposal but it was not firmed upyet.”
“Why would you do that?” Trentasked.
“I needed time to think through what I reallywant.”
“But you must make a decision soon. You mentioned the Duke said time was of the essence,” Fanny said, pouring them all another cup oftea.
“I know,” Emily said in a strainedvoice.
“And who is this duke? And why is he taking an interest in your career?” Trentasked.
“His family has a long history of supporting the arts, with a special interest in music,” Emily said. “And I have to admit, he is a very sympathetic youngman.”
“Young man?” Fanny immediately perked up. “He is young? And is hehandsome?”
Emily nodded reluctantly. “He isboth.”
“Ah, more and more interesting. Might there be a potential romance brewing?” Fanny asked, causing Trent to frown at theidea.
“Not at all. I met the lady he iscourting.”
“Are they engaged?” Trent askedhopefully.
“Not yet. But I expect it is only a matter of time before theyare.”
“And what are you going to do? His offer seems to be a gigantic opportunity for you,” Trentcontinued.
Emily shook her head and lowered her eyes. “I have no idea. I have not had the courage to broach the subject with Papa justyet.”
“Oh, Emily, you must. I do not see how you can refuse such a generous offer. Giles has not been able to come up with anything like this foryou.”
“But we have been moving forward with the intention of remaining a trio. There has been no serious thought of solo work. He always knew Papa would prohibitit.”
“Emily, my dear… What are you going to do?” Fanny asked, lookingdistressed.
Emily sat with her hands in her lap staring out across the teashop.
“I have no idea. Of course, I wish to have a solo career, but I am also concerned for my sisters who would have no careers if they were left on theirown.”
“And how is that your responsibility?” Trent asked. “If they are not qualified and are not willing to do the work to become better, why should you suffer because ofthem?”
“Because they are my family, and I know Papa counts on me to keep the triogoing.”
“Nonsense, Emily. You must honor your talent and take the Duke’s offer. And that is all I have to say on thematter.”
“And I second that,” Trent added. “I want you to become wildly famous, so I can say I knew youwhen…”
Emily could not deal with this discussion any longer. It was clear they both thought she should pursue a solo career, but she could not yet make thatleap.
She turned to Fanny and said, “I need a new petticoat. What can you recommend, and is there anything nice onsale?”
* * *
