“Nicole,” Regina called.
Her cousin turned back to her. “Yes?”
“I… may I ask you a question?” Regina bit her lip. She wasn’t at all certain she should mention her feelings for Daffin to Nicole, but she desperately needed advice.
“Of course.” Nicole moved back toward her and took a seat on the edge of the bed.
Regina pressed her hands to her cheeks. “There’s something I must tell you.”
Nicole searched her face. “What is it?”
“Daffin and I spent the night together.”
Nicole’s smile was enormous. “I was hoping you would.” She shot Regina a satisfied smirk. “Was it everything you thought it would be?”
“It was… magical,” Regina breathed.
“Please tell me he used his handcuffs.” Nicole waggled her eyebrows.
“I am a lady. I would never admit to such a thing.” Reginaburst into laughter. “But yes, he did, and yes, it was magnificent.”
“Ooh.” Nicole bounced a little on the mattress. “I need to ask Mark if he has a pair.”
“But as wonderful as it was,” Regina continued, “I’m not certain what to do now.”
“What do you mean?” Nicole asked, blinking.
“I mean I’m not at all sure Daffin wants more.”
A sad look crossed Nicole’s face. “And you want something more?”
Regina bit her lip and slowly nodded. “Yes… I do. Oh, Nicole. I think I… I may… be in love with him.”
Nicole grasped her hand. “Oh, Regina, I’m so happy for you.”
“But how can I convince him we should be something more?”
Nicole squeezed Regina’s hand. “Love doesn’t have to be convinced, my friend. My advice? Follow your heart. Always.”
“But even if Daffin feels the same, we’re sure to face Grandmama’s and Uncle Edward’s reprobation.”
Nicole sighed. “That remains to be seen.”
Grandmama came bustling into the room. “Oh, I’m so glad I caught you before you left. I was worried I’d missed you.” She scurried to Regina and planted a kiss on her cheek.
Regina and Nicole traded a look.
“Thank you, Grandmama,” Regina said.
“Now, be brave but be careful,” Grandmama said. “You’ve always been such a headstrong girl. Please come home safe.”
Regina cleared her throat. “Grandmama? Speaking of my being headstrong…”
“I’ll leave you two,” Nicole offered, standing and sailing from the room before Lady Harriet had a chance to object.
“What is it, dear?” Grandmama asked, smoothing her hand against Regina’s cheek.
Regina took a deep breath. “What if I told you I love someone who’s not of my class?”
