Page 39 of Always a Princess
“Yes. It was, and he was.”
“This is why you know so much about men?”
“Only a very little, my dear,” she replied to Sophia.
“Why did that enrage Father so? How could that ruin us?”
“Because he was not British. He was Indian.”
Both girls gasped. “Really?”
“Yes, and he was handsome and kind, and he loved me very much. And I loved him.”
“That is so romantic,” Sophia sighed.
“Yes, it was. But he is gone, and shortly after, my parents passed on as well. Then I came to live with you.”
“That’s why you were so sad.”
“You two saved me. And for that, I will be forever grateful. I love you both, and I would never want to hurt you or your prospects in any way.”
“We know that,” Louisa said.
“You’re the best person we have ever known, Thea. You can’t leave us,” Sophia said in protest.
“It is not my choice, but if your father wishes me gone, I will leave.”
“But where will you go?” Louisa asked.
“I will be fine.”
“You’re going to the prince, aren’t you?” Sophia said.
“Yes.”
Both girls squealed.
From tears to joy in the space of a few moments. Life is unpredictable yet amazing, Thea mused as they hugged her.
“When will we see you again?”
“I don’t know, but once I am married and you are both married, your father will have no say in any of our lives.”
“Isn’t that the silver lining of the night?” Louisa said. “I never imagined I’d be married to an industrialist. Do you think he really will let me paint him?”
Thea couldn’t help but grin. “I think he will be utterly charmed if you ask him.”
“Especially if you tell him you want to paint him nude.” Sophia laughed.
“Maybe save that part for after you’re married, my dear. So he doesn’t wonder what kind of girl you are.”
“But after … you think he will let me?” Louisa sounded intrigued in a way Thea had never heard from her before with regard to a man.
“Time will tell, my dear.”
Sophia let out a breath. “And a shy, bookish Viscount for me. What do I do with that?”
“Treat him with respect and kindness, and you will be fine,” Thea said, praying she was right.
