He knew now that he needed to make things right. He couldn’t change the past, but perhaps he could change the future. Heneeded to find a way to show Judith how much she meant to him, to prove that he was worthy of her love.
With renewed determination, Aaron stood up and began to pace again, this time with purpose. He needed a plan, a way to win Judith back. And he knew he wouldn’t rest until he had done everything in his power to make things right.
CHAPTER 31
The soft peals of laughter filled the parlor as Judith, Rosy, and Joanna gathered for tea in Rosy’s elegantly decorated sitting room. The sun streamed through the large windows, casting a warm glow over the floral wallpaper and antique furniture.
Rosy’s home was the epitome of grace and comfort, a sanctuary where the three friends often gathered to share their lives’ joys and challenges.
Rosy and George had just returned from their trip to Spain, which had been cut short due to an impending flood. Despite the abrupt end to their travels, Rosy was in high spirits, delighted to be back among friends. Joanna, ever the lively one, recounted the latest Society gossip with her usual flair, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
However, once they had caught up on the latest events in town, Rosy turned to Judith, and the latter’s shoulders tensed up.
Judith had told Rosy all about her feelings for Aaron, and thus far they hadn’t had a chance to talk about it. Of course, Rosy had to have heard the latest news about Judith courting Graham.
“So, Judith,” Rosy began, turning her attention to her friend. “You must tell me how you came to court Lord Leeds. The last time you wrote to me, you said that you were fond of the Duke of Nottingham.”
“Aaron? I did not know you cared for him!” Joanna exclaimed. “I thought that the two of you looked at one another in a certain way, but I didn’t think that you and he would… I am perplexed.”
Judith wetted her lips and looked out the window. “I was silly, I should not have written that. It was a moment of weakness because I thought I’d be alone forever and he was there for me. I thought if I could be with him, my problems would be resolved, but no. I was silly, and now I am courting someone who truly cares for me and I for them.”
But then a thought came to her—the second letter! She’d written to Rosy after the kiss in the library and given her a full report. She’d been interrupted by Matilda, but she’d finished writing it and sent it. Rosy never mentioned receiving it and therefore apparently did not know what had happened after.
Should she ask her about it? No, if Rosy hadn’t received the letter while in Spain, there was little chance she would now. It was best to let it go, and if she ever did receive it by chance, Judith could dismiss it. By then, she’d be married already.
“You mean Lord Leeds? I’ve heard about this,” Rosy said. “Is it really serious? Do you think he’ll ask you to marry him?”
Judith hesitated for a moment, then took a deep breath. “Well, actually, Lord Leeds has spoken to Oliver,” she explained, trying to keep her voice steady. “He wants to marry me, indeed.”
Rosy and Joanna gasped with delight, their faces lighting up with joy.
“That’s wonderful news!” Joanna gushed, clapping her hands together. “I remember when Kenneth spoke to Father about our marriage. It was such a thrilling time.”
“And George,” Rosy added, a fond smile on her lips. “He was so nervous when he asked for Father’s permission. It seems like only yesterday.”
“Was Lord Leeds’ proposal romantic?” Joanna asked, leaning forward with interest. “You must tell us all about it!”
Judith forced a smile, though she felt a heavy weight in her chest. “It was,” she replied. “He proposed after a concert in the carriage, and I said yes.”
She smiled, but it never reached her eyes. It had been sweet and would have been romantic if she loved Graham in any way, but she didn’t. And thus, it meant little. Already, the memory was becoming blurry.
Rosy and Joanna exchanged delighted glances.
“How wonderful!” Rosy beamed. “But, Judith, you don’t seem very excited. Is something the matter?”
Judith shrugged, trying to sound nonchalant. “It’s a good match, and I am pleased with it,” she said. “Lord Leeds is a fine man, and I know we will have a good life together.”
Her friends looked at her with confusion, sensing there was more beneath the surface.
“But are you happy?” Joanna asked hesitantly. “You don’t seem as overjoyed as we expected.”
Judith avoided their gazes, focusing on her teacup. “I am content,” she stated. “And that is enough.”
“Is content truly enough?” Joanna asked gently.
“I think it will need to be,” Judith replied. “I already said yes, after all. And besides, I am four-and-twenty and already not well regarded in Society due to my age and past broken engagement. I must be realistic, and Lord Leeds is the best match I can hope for. I assure you, I will be fine.”
The sisters looked at one another, and she felt that they didn’t believe her.
