This pulled a smile out of her, but she still wasn’t convinced.
“That’s a very loving thing to say, Tony. But like I said when we were standing out in the garden,Istill can’t see myself as being worthy of you.”
“What can I do to change your mind?”
“Nothing. You don’t have to do anything. This is a deeply personal matter within me. I don’t know how, but I want tobecomea woman worthy of your affection. And I think I need to search for ideas on how to do so. I think… I may have to search the world for those ideas.”
“Then dismiss her, Brother,” piped up Lady Cecilia.
Everyone’s head turned towards her.
Even Anthony appeared stunned.
“I beg your pardon, Cecilia?”
“Brother, I hope I don’t sound disrespectful, but I think we shouldn’t try to convince Miss Meyer to change her mind.” She turned to face Meredith. “I want her to find whatever it is she’s looking for.”
Anthony exchanged looks with Fletcher and sighed.
“Oddly enough, Cecilia, you’re not the first person to say something similar to me today. Only a stubborn, grumpy old goat would ignore these clear signs.”
He gently stroked Meredith’s hand. “And you’re absolutely certain about this?”
“With regards to life, Tony, I think I have learned that the secret is to never be absolutely sure about anything.”
He snorted, “I couldn’t agree more. All right, all right. Fletcher and I will draw up your references tomorrow. But before we go back to the drawing room, let me ask just one more question.”
“Yes?”
“After you have completed your search, once you’re sure you’ve found what you’re looking for, will you come back?”
She nodded slowly, “I think so, if you’re fine with waiting for me, that is.”
“Of course, I like to think of myself as a patient man. But if you could somehow manage to speed up your return, that would be even better!”
Meredith rolled her eyes.
“Then you had better hurry up and let me go—the sooner I go, the sooner I shall come back.”
Chapter 30
Two and A Half Months Later…
“Goodbye, Mrs. Dunn. Thank you again!”
Cecilia continued to wave until the coach was completely out of sight. Then she turned around and made her way back inside as quickly as possible.
Autumn was now coming to an end, so Cecilia was already cold despite having only gone outside for barely two minutes.
Mrs. Oakley was waiting for her inside. “Did you enjoy your embroidery lesson, Lady Cecilia?”
“Yes, thank you, Mrs. Oakley. I wonder if I could make something for Mrs. Dunn and her children. I’m very worried that winter will be here soon.”
Mrs. Oakley smiled warmly, “That would be very kind of you, Lady Cecilia. I wanted to inform you that luncheon will be ready soon. Where would you like to take it today?”
Cecilia tapped her chin. “May I please have it in the dining room? I was hoping to dine with my brother today.”
“Of course, Lady Cecilia. However, I don’t know if His Grace would be available to join you for lunch.”
