“Absolutely. But leaving all of that behind in favor of a simpler and sparser life has given me more freedom than I ever had before,” she tried to explain. “It is as if material things and the desire for more held me hostage.”
“Losing it made you realize what truly matters,” Mr. Crawford murmured.
His insightfulness went straight to Mary’s heart. “It brought everything into perspective,” she said. “As hard as it has been, I cannot imagine ever going back to an idle life. What Mr. Partridge said earlier about how your work must give you a sense of deep accomplishment resonates with me. I have never felt more useful or necessary than I have these last five years.”
The music started to fade, causing Mr. Crawford to slow his pace. “You are an extraordinary woman, Miss Clemens. Don’t ever let anyone else tell you otherwise.” They came to a halt, and he slowly released her, stepping back so he could bow while she curtseyed.
“Thank you,” she said, “not only for the dance but for the conversation. You’re pretty extraordinary yourself.”
“Words I’ll hold close to my heart,” he said, smiling at her in a way that weakened her knees and left her slightly breathless. He offered his arm and escorted her back to the rest of their group while she began wondering if Emily and Cassandra had a point. Perhaps giving in to desire would be worth it if Mr. Crawford would be hers, if only for a brief moment in time.
10
It was almostmidnight by the time they returned home to a quiet house. After paying the Durhams and seeing them off, Caleb had prepared to bid the three women good night when Lady Cassandra invited him to stay for a cup of tea in the parlor.
“Mrs. Durham was kind enough to prepare a pot for our return.” She peeled off her gloves and placed them on the small table near the stairs. “Get yourselves settled and I’ll bring the tray.”
“Allow me to help,” Miss Howard said and hurried after her friend.
Caleb turned to Miss Clemens and gestured toward the parlor door. “Shall we?”
She nodded and preceded him into the room where she took a seat on the sofa. He decided to sit beside her even though he probably shouldn’t. But he wanted to be near her. Especially after watching Mr. Partridge convey his keen interest in her. Caleb liked the man well enough, but he’d be damned if he was going to let him swoop in and steal Miss Clemens away.
She fidgeted with the skirt of her gown. “I enjoyed this evening,” she said. “We don’t get out nearly enough. Doing so was fun.”
“It certainly was,” he agreed. “I especially liked dancing with you, Miss Clemens.”
She blushed, which pleased him, for it reminded him of how easily he affected her. She had not blushed a single time while dancing or conversing with Mr. Partridge. Caleb had paid close attention.
“You must have attendedmany such events before, considering the skill with which you danced,” Mary said. “I was quite impressed.”
“Careful now, Miss Clemens. You’re in danger of turning your compliment into an insult.” He smiled wryly, dispelling any embarrassment she might have felt in response to his comment. Leaning back, he stretched out his legs, and glanced at the door. “They're taking a really long time with the tea.”
“Hmm...” For whatever absurd reason, he wanted to change the subject, and she decided to let him. “I'll see what’s keeping them.” She stood and crossed the floor. “I won't be long.”
He snorted as she opened the door, and when she stepped out into the chilly hallway, she heard him say, “I've heard that before.”
Grinning, she hurried into the kitchen where she found Cassandra and Emily deep in conversation.
“— there were someone like that for me,” Emily said. “Not that I...Oh! Mary!”
“I see you are both enjoying your tea,” Mary said directing a look at the two half-empty cups on the counter.
Cassandra bit her lip. “We thought you might like some time alone with Mr. Crawford.”
“Really?” Marching forward, Mary picked up the tray they'd prepared and raised an eyebrow. “Well?”
Both women glanced at each other and promptly downed the remainder of their tea. “It has been a long day,” Emily said. She stretched and rubbed her back.
“It certainly has,” Cassandra agreed with a yawn. “I think I'm off to bed.”
Mary stared at the pair of them. “You cannot be serious.”
“Good night, Mary,” Emily said, passing her on her way to the door.
“I can see right through you. You're so transparent,” Mary called after her as she disappeared into the hallway.
“Enjoy your tea,” Cassandra said as she, too, headed for the door. “And please apologize to Mr. Crawford for our inability to join the two of you.”
