“It is rather wonderful.”
“It is indeed.”
“You know, I have had a thought. Did you dispose of those gowns you disliked?” There he went again, subtly introducing a new topic.
She raised her chin and raised her eyebrows. “I have not yet.”
“I should like to burn them. All of your gowns, in fact.”
“All? You do not like my new ones?”
“Not a bit.”
“Well, that is...” She appeared at a loss for words.
“It is time you stopped hiding, Amelia. Let us have new gowns made. Ones that do not hide the evidence of your past bravery but that showcase it.”
Understanding dawned, but she bit her lip. “I am not certain I can manage it—I have been hiding them for so long.”
“You need not do it if you do not wish it. But I do not want you to hide any part of you any longer. The world may not deserve all of you, but you deserve to show all of you to the world.”
She swallowed but nodded. “Very well.”
“Is that a yes?”
“Yes. But let us not burn them. I imagine we could alter my new ones and perhaps donate my others to... the poor?”
“Darling, I do not think the poor want those gowns.”
She hit his chest with a fist, he captured her hand in his own, pressing a kiss to her knuckles.
“You’re impossible.”
“I am aware.”
And he released her, kissed her, then whisked her from the house without another moment to lose.
Epilogue
June 3, 1813
Dearest Amelia,
Why did you never tell me you disliked the nickname “Mellie”? How shocking to have to learn that information years after terming you that name! Never fear, though difficult as it may be, I promise to resign myself to calling you Amelia.
Now, do not be offended by my taking a moment to speak solely of myself and my good fortune! Sir Frederick has asked Papa for my hand in marriage—and he has given his permission! I am certain I do not need to tell you of my response to his proposal. I am overjoyed! Papa has even offered to procure a special license, but I wished to write to you and see if you will visit and attend the wedding. I know you and Lord Norwich are enjoying your seclusion from Society, but would you break from solitude for a week (or fortnight) to celebrate my nuptials? Edith has agreed to be on her best behavior, should Papa allow her to return for the marriage.
Oh! Speaking of our sister, she is still unhappy to have been sent home early from the Season, complaining that Lord Berkeley will surely be married when next she is allowed to attend. I do not hold such hope for the man, as he has been on the marriage mart for years and still has not shown particular preference toward any woman. However, Edith will not hear such logical assumptions. She ignored my latest letter. Alas, I find it hard to dwell on her hardships whilst I am in a state of utter joy. Send word quickly, I hope you will be able to come!
Yours affectionately,
Henrietta Kennington
PS. I am finally to see Brighton! Sir Frederick wishes to enjoy a trip there following our wedding. Edith will be put out I am sure, but it is not my fault her Brighton trip was cancelled due to her poor actions, is it? Sending my love!
September 7, 1813
Dear Amelia,
