Page 38

My mother will wonder, of course, at our hesitance to proceed with the tour, but I suppose she will overcome whatever disappointment she may feel.

As for calling for a physician, I’d hate to worry my mother unnecessarily. Perhaps we ought to wait to see if you will be miraculously healed of your ailments on your own.

Do keep me updated.

Your anxious husband,

Charles

Marie frowned. It was almost as if he’d expected her to push back on their departure time. Did he already know her so well? Well, he wouldn’t expect what she had to say next.

To my charming husband,

Your thoughtfulness knows no bounds—and your ability to manifest the future. As it so happens, I have been miraculously healed and will be ready to leave within an hour. I would not wish to make you wait a moment longer without me.

I know how much you love our time together.

Do tell your mother of our plan to still leave. If she wishes to know why there has been back-and-forth, perhaps you might simply explain what you did last night. She will understand perfectly then, I am certain.

Your Just-As-Equally-Thoughtful Wife,

Marie

PS. Have you any requests as to which personality you would prefer for the trip and fortnight ahead? I am happy to assume whichever you prefer. Although, I do promise to not behave like a handkerchief again. Unless, of course, you are in need of me when you sneeze.

With another satisfied smile, she bade Jane once more to deliver the note, then awaited her return.

Over the next half hour, the two of them worked together to ensure Marie was dressed and ready for their departure. With two minutes to spare, she left her room behind, only to find Mrs. Shepherd walking toward her down the otherwise empty corridor.

“I came to deliver this,” Mrs. Shepherd said with a warm smile. “It is from my son. No doubt a love note of some sort.”

Marie highly doubted that was what the letter held, still she accepted it with a smile.

They moved down the corridor together. Half a dozen portraits decorated the walls, each filled with various paintings of horses, dogs, and hunting parties.

“How are you faring, my dear?” Mrs. Shepherd asked. “We missed your presence throughout the rest of the ball last night, but I gather it was for good reason?”

Marie could hardly crush her spirits. “Your son and I had a very interesting...conversation.”

Mrs. Shepherd’s features fell, but she hid them swiftly with a smile. “Well, I do hope you enjoy yourselves over the coming weeks. My bridal tour with Mr. Shepherd was the best thing for our marriage. And...do be patient with Charles. I know he can be quite a difficult person to be around at times, but once a person breaks down his rather crusted exterior, there is no one who will love you more fully.”

Marie nodded, unable to even concoct a word.

Mrs. Shepherd was putting far too much stock in her son’s abilities to be a good person.

“I will meet you downstairs,” Mrs. Shepherd said. “I must fetch Mr. Shepherd’s walking stick.”

Marie nodded, waiting until Mrs. Shepherd was out of sight before ripping open the burning letter in her hands.

Dearest Darling Marie,

Thank you for the opportunity to choose my own wife for the day. I believe I have seen enough of each and would prefer now to witness the amiable woman I was promised by my mother from the beginning—as I have yet to see her.

Your Patient Husband,

Charles

PS. I, myself, shall remain as I have always been—honorable, respectful, and ever-doting.