Hazel’s vision blurred. Her chaotic, exhausting, beloved little sisters looked at her with sincerity she had never seen before. They were not turning to her for dependency or expectation, but pure love.
Hazel pulled them both into her arms at once, holding them tightly, the way she had for years, but this time, the embrace did not feel like responsibility. It felt like family.
“My darlings,” Hazel whispered, “you have nothing to apologize for. I did what I did because I loved you. And because you needed someone to be your guide.”
Patience clung to her. “We know. But we want to do better, tobebetter.”
Chastity nodded into Hazel’s shoulder. “For you, and for ourselves.”
Hazel kissed each of their heads, feeling her heart full in a way she had not known it could be. When they finally pulled back, Hazel saw a new version of her sisters. They had reached maturity, gratitude, and there was a slight spark of independence she had long hoped to see.
She smiled, brushing a tear from Chastity’s cheek. “Well then, I suppose I must get used to having grown-up sisters.”
Patience laughed through her tears. “Not too grown up, we hope. You’re still our Hazel.”
“Yes,” she said softly. “And I always will be.”
Hazel dabbed the corners of Chastity’s eyes with her handkerchief, then sat back to look at them both properly. “Myloves,” she said gently, “now that you’ve realized all this… tell me. Have you thought about whatyouwant? Not what Mama expects, or society expects, but rather, whatyoudesire for your own lives.”
Chastity and Patience exchanged a glance. This one was less nervous and more contemplative.
Hazel smiled encouragingly. “Well? I am listening.”
Sweet, dramatic, thoughtful Patience twisted the ribbon on her sleeve. “I… have thought about it,” she said quietly. “Quite a lot, actually.”
Hazel’s eyebrows rose with approval. “And?”
Patience bit her lip. “I don’t think I want a Season this year.”
Hazel blinked. “You don’t?”
Patience shook her head, curls bouncing. “I know it is what Mama wanted. And Chastity is already enjoying preparing for hers. But I…” She took a breath. “I feel soyoung, Hazel. I don’t feel ready. I think I was rushed into it because Chastity was coming out, and it seemed easier for Mama to present us both.”
Chastity snorted. “Easier for Mama, perhaps. Not for Patience.”
Patience nodded gratefully. “I would like… one more year at home. Perhaps a chance to grow up a little more, to learn who I am before I start parading it about at balls.”
Hazel’s heart swelled with pride. Patience, who once wanted nothing more than to follow Chastity like a shadow, was finding her own path.
“That,” Hazel said warmly, “is a very wise decision.”
Patience let out a breath of relief. “You don’t think it’s foolish? Or childish?”
Hazel took her hands. “I think it is brave, and thoughtful, and entirely your choice to make.”
Patience threw her arms around Hazel with sudden force. “Thank you.”
Then, Chastity cleared her throat delicately. “Well, since Patience is admitting things…” She straightened, as if mustering the courage to speak her mind. “I have decided Idowant my Season, a real one.”
Hazel smiled. “Not one where you are constantly looking over your shoulder for Mama’s approval or my guidance?”
Chastity shook her head. “Exactly. I want to see who I am, on my own. I’ve always relied on you, Hazel. But I don’t want to do thisSeason as someone’s responsibility.” Her voice softened. “I want to do it as myself.”
Hazel reached out, brushing a stray curl from Chastity’s cheek. “I think that is a wonderful idea.”
Chastity’s eyes shimmered. “Do you think I can manage it?”
Hazel laughed softly. “My darling, you are eighteen. You are charming, kind, beautiful and far stronger than you realize. Yes, you can absolutely manage it.”
