“Forgive me, but I was never able to congratulate you on your betrothal. May I extend my congratulations now?”
“You may, thank you, Mr. Addison,” Matteo said, still smiling.
“Well, I wish you both a pleasant day.”
“And to you as well, sir,” Helena replied, smiling at him.
When they continued on, Matteo frowned at Helena.
“Why did you suddenly let go of my hand when you saw Mr. Addison?”
Helena looked flustered.
“What—I, I… I thought it was an inappropriate gesture out in public.”
“I’m sorry you feel that way,” Matteo smiled at her suddenly, his charming, winning smile. “I quite like holding your hand, Helena.”
When they arrived back at Huntington House, they proceeded once again to the sitting room.
Helena was just ringing for tea when Chastity suddenly entered the room.
“Helena, why did you cancel our visit to the theater?—”
Chastity stopped midsentence as she realized that Matteo was in the room as well.
“Your Grace.” She curtsied.
“Lady Chastity.” Matteo bowed. “I hope the afternoon brought you the respite you needed?”
“Er-yes, Your Grace.” Chastity smiled at Matteo.
“I’m glad to see you up, Chastity,” Helena said. “Will you be joining us for tea?”
“I have just had tea, thank you.” She looked at Helena and gestured towards the door. “May I have a word, Helena?”
Helena’s eyebrows rose as she and Matteo exchanged looks.
“Of course, dear.”
She stood up and followed Chastity outside the door of the sitting room.
“Why did you cancel the theater visit tomorrow, Helena?” Chastity looked almost panicked. “And why did you not take me driving with you today?”
“Chastity,” Helena said, taking her hand to calm her. “You said earlier today that you were tired, so I thought that some rest would do you good. I had thought to let you be until tomorrow, so that you can recover and gather your strength for Lady Chapman’s dinner the following day.”
Helena thought it was relief that she saw in Chastity’s eyes. “Was I wrong in deciding such?” Helena asked, concerned.
“No, no, you were not wrong. But today’s rest has given me sufficient respite. I feel that I can go out tomorrow again.” Chastity smiled at her older sister. “Do let us go to the theater tomorrow as planned, Helena. I am well, really.”
Helena had expected another argument; indeed, she braced for it. To now have her sister suddenly pleading and sanguine unsettled her.
“Well…”
“Please, Helena.”
Helena was not immune to Chastity’s pleading.
“It is your decision, if you say that you are feeling better, then we shall go.”
