“I worry that it might be one-sided.” Frances pulled on the long red satin gloves that matched her gown.
“Whatever makes you say that?”
“I am concerned that he asked to court me because of the increase in my dowry.”
“Darling.” Her mother squeezed her shoulders. “I have only seen genuine interest in his expression when he looks at you. That was true months ago during the house party. I was quite disappointed when he left for America, but your interactions since his return have been delightful to watch even before your father increased your dowry.”
They started out the door when her mother paused, a hint of fire in her eyes. “And what if he is interested in the dowry? It is up to you to show him that he would be a fool not to want you for his wife. The dowry is merely frosting on the cake.” She leaned close and lowered her voice. “Sometimes, we cannot simply wait for the men in our lives to decide what they want. We must choose for them. Eventually, they will thank us for it.”
Frances stilled in surprise as her mother continued down the hall toward the stairs, trying to comprehend the shocking advice.
Her mother looked back. “Aren’t you coming, dear?”
Soon, they were in the carriage with her father headed toward The Pavilion with warming bricks at their feet. They were early enough to avoid the traffic of the other guests.
“Papa?”
“Yes, dear?”
“If you see Mr. Sinclair, please tell him I would welcome his suit.”
“Surely you’d prefer to see what other offers come your way.”
“No, I do not.” She held his gaze, her mind made up. “And one more item. Do not mention the dowry this evening.”
He scoffed. “I hardly think—”
“My dear.” Her mother reached over to pat his thigh, a hint of steel in her voice. “Grant our daughter her request. She’s earned it and is old enough to know her mind.”
“Humph. I am only trying to help.”
“You’ve helped quite enough already, Papa.”
He stared at her in disbelief then jerked on the hem of his suit coat, obviously affronted.
Frances glanced at her mother to see what she thought, hoping she hadn’t gone too far. To her delight, her mother winked, her smile suggesting she approved.
The rest of the ride passed in silence. Frances couldn’t guess what might happen this evening, but she was at peace with her decision. It felt more than right. She only hoped she’d have the chance to tell Thomas herself.
Soon, they arrived, and she paused after stepping out of the carriage to study the entrance, pleased with what she saw.
The glow of candelabras lit the windows and torches lit the walkway to welcome guests and guide them to the double doors. Tall, narrow evergreen trees in large red pots sitting on a swath of white cotton flanked the entrance, along with a bough of greenery wrapped in red and gold ribbons above it.
“Oh, my.” Her mother stared in appreciation at the sight. “It looks wonderful. So elegant yet welcoming.”
Her father cleared his throat as he joined them. “It truly does, Frances. Well done.”
“Thank you.” She led the way to where servants in black and white attire stood at the ready to open the doors.
Inside, the entry, where guests could shed their cloaks, hats, and coats, also boasted touches of Christmas. The doors to the ballroom stood open, the warm light of the chandeliers inviting people to step inside. In the ballroom, the columns were wrapped in greenery and the windows were draped with it as well. Sconces were lit along the walls. Balls of holly were suspended above the dance floor and added to the festive atmosphere.
“It smells heavenly in here,” her mother said from her side.
“Probably won’t for long once it’s filled with people.” Her father glanced about with interest despite his negative words.
“Do stop being so dour, dear.” Her mother reached for his arm. “We are here to support our lovely daughter.”
“You’re right.” He managed a smile.
