Margaret did not deny it.
“That is not how this was meant to begin,” Eleanor said quietly.
“No,” Margaret agreed.
Anne reached for her hand.
“Have you spoken to him?”
“Yes.”
“And?”
“He reminded me that our marriage was entered with practical understanding.”
“Practical.”
“That was the agreement,” Margaret said.
“And you are satisfied with that?”
Margaret considered before answering.
“I believed I would be.”
Eliza leaned back in her chair, folding her arms.
“You deserve more than mere platitudes.”
“I did not ask for more.”
“Not asking does not mean you do not need it!”
Margaret let out a slow breath.
“He thanks me. He praises the management. He ensures I lack nothing.”
“But?” Anne prompted.
“But he does not stay.”
The words felt smaller spoken aloud. Eleanor’s expression softened.
“Does he avoid you?”
“He says he does not.”
“And what do you think?”
Margaret looked down at her hands.
“I think he has convinced himself that distance is kindness.”
“Kindness to whom?”
“I cannot tell.”
“Well do you believe he cares for you?”
