“Humph. If he’s wise, he’d be pleased to have happiness for her. Material things are lessening in value these days.”
Thomas could hardly believe his ears and didn’t know how to respond.
“Melbourne could set aside funds for his daughter if he has doubts about you. But surely your life thus far has already proven how reliable and determined you are, not to mention your other qualities.”
Thomas stared at his father, wondering what he was talking about.
His father straightened in his chair. “Stop staring at me as if I’ve lost my wits. Perhaps I don’t say it often, but I raised two fine sons. They’re men who are honorable, intelligent, and are damn good people. What more can a man ask for?”
“I couldn’t say,” Thomas managed as a flush of pride washed over him.
“Grandchildren.” His father raised his index finger in the air to emphasize his point. “Your mother and I aren’t getting any younger, you know.”
The thought of having a family with Frances was enough to steal his breath. He longed for that with every beat of his heart. A daughter with her smile and love of books. A son with her intelligence. But such dreams were too far out of reach when he wasn’t sure if Frances was even speaking to him. “Perhaps you should mention that to Alan since he’s already married.”
“I have.” His father rose to walk to the side table to pour them both a whiskey. “It seems you and your brother are determined to make us wait.”
Thomas accepted the glass with a smile. “I’m sure Alan will provide an heir soon.”
“We shall see. But I digress. Your drive for success is impressive, though I don’t know where it comes from.” His father shook his head as he settled in the chair again. “I can’t claim it.”
“I suppose I have Grandfather to thank.”
“Oh?”
“He told me that as a second son, I needed to earn my place in the world. I suppose I took that seriously.”
“No doubt that was some nonsense he told my younger brother as well since Arthur moved to New York.” His father shook his head. “Don’t take what he said so seriously. You’ve already done more than most. I appreciate your resolve to make a good future for yourself. You’ve succeeded in every endeavor you’ve undertaken. And you’ve changed your course when the path wasn’t bringing you what you wanted. But your mother and I want you home again. Very much. I’m not certain if I have made that clear enough.”
“I would like to return as well.” Thomas took a sip, trying to grasp everything his father had shared while wondering what other insights he might provide since the conversation was already full of surprises.
“I am proud of you, Thomas.” His father raised his glass and looked him in the eye. “Hurry and come home. There has to be a way to make that happen sooner rather than later.”
“I will do my best.” He was doubly determined now. Yet his doubt about his worthiness remained. Would doing his best make any difference?
His father was right about one thing—he needed to share his plans—but more importantly his heart—with Frances, preferably without her father in the room. Whether that would make any difference remained to be seen.
Maybe he had proven himself more than he’d realized. Maybe it was time to pursue the life he truly wanted—with Frances. It seemed he would be going to the ball after all.
Frances smoothed her hands over the red satin gown as she checked her appearance in the mirror that evening.
“You look lovely, miss.” Her maid adjusted the draped bustle and stood back. “So festive. Perfect for the Christmas ball.”
Would Thomas think so? Would he even be there? She sighed, wishing she knew for certain.
“Are you ready, dear?” her mother asked as she entered the room. “You look wonderful. But not especially happy.”
“Nothing of the sort,” Frances denied. “I’m just nervous that everything will go smoothly.”
“Of course, it will.” Her mother gave a single nod, her confidence helping to reassure Frances.
“I hope so.” Frances took her cape and gloves from the maid who then departed.
Her mother reached for one of her hands. “I cannot wait to see Mr. Sinclair’s reaction when he sees you.”
“If he’s there.” The words were out before she could halt them.
“Why wouldn’t he be? He’s helped with so many of the preparations. It’s clear from what I’ve observed that you have feelings for one another.” Her mother released her hand to help her with her cape.
