It was not until Joseph reached his house that he realized he was still smiling.
“I have no wish to enter society, Aunt. In fact, I am unsure I will even stay in London.”
Milly was seated in her favorite parlor, attempting to read a letter from Apple-blossom, who was now betrothed and extremely happy.
The room was a symphony of cream and rose, from the walls to the carpets. The furniture had been purchased for comfort and style, and in here she felt at peace. Well, at least she normally did. Right at that moment, her aunt was attempting once again to lure her out into society. So far, she had managed to stand firm, but Aunt Beth was a determined woman.
“I understand your reservations, Millicent, and yes, your need to leave London, should you wish it. But you have already received many morning calls, so you have suffered through the worst of it, surely.”
Milly could hardly believe the change in her life over the last few weeks. It was almost as if she was living a dream. She was warm, and well-fed, and did not have to sleep in damp, dusty rooms.
“Are you listening to me, dear?”
“Yes, Aunt, I am.”
To Milly’s eyes, her aunt seemed happier and healthier. Her cheeks were flushed with healthy color and she had put on weight. Leaving the control of her children had been the best thing for her. She no longer lived in that cold house and suffered through her son’s lectures on economy.
“I have no wish to go into society, Aunt, and am more than happy here with you.”
“But I do enter society, Millicent, as you very well know. And between us, my friends and I, we will be there to support you, as will Lady Thurston, and I suspect Lord Ellsworth. After all, it was he who brought you back to London, dear, and you have explained some of what transpired to him. So I’m sure he holds no grudge against you.”
She had not told her aunt everything, but a selection of truths. Enough to keep her happy.
“Perhaps you and Lord Ellsworth could—”
“No.” Milly nipped that thought off at the stem. “I will not marry.”
Her aunt’s lips thinned, but she said nothing more.
She’d seen Joseph yesterday, riding that black beast of his. He’d raced with her and Milly had been exhilarated. Oddly, she also felt at peace in his company. Perhaps because he had seen the Milly she had become, or perhaps with him she needn’t show any other side any longer.
“Lord Ellsworth has invited us to the opera tomorrow evening. I think you should start with that, and then we can discuss which other events you will attend.”
“I had forgotten your tenacity, Aunt.”
Her relative sat on the sofa opposite, comfortable and content. At least in this, Milly had been able to make small amends for hurting her. She would let no one hurt Aunt Beth again, and ensure her life was a long and happy one. Because if she had learned nothing else the last four years, it was to value those who loved her.
