Page 63 of A Rogue to Reform

Felicity lowered her voice, looking around to ensure no one overheard. “There is so much I want to share with you about married life. But I am not sure I should.”

Her friend’s wistful look made her heart squeeze. Not having a sister, Felicity loved her friend dearly. If only Hannah would find love like she had.

“You must absolutely share everything.” Hannah sipped her tea. “I would think it is better to be prepared for such things.”

“Indeed,” Felicity said. “I am not sure why men have to be so much more informed than us. It is silly, in my opinion.”

They were to spend the day shopping for a birthday gift for Hannah’s mother, and then her friend wished to see the renovations. Felicity was excited that they’d spend the day together.

“I have missed our daily talks. I wish you lived closer,” Hannah said with a frown. “I suppose you are not that far, but without a carriage during the day, I can only travel so far.”

“You can always hire one; I will pay for it. As a matter of fact, I insist. I want to spend time with you as often as possible.”

Hannah laughed. “I am sure Evan would not agree to me being there daily, but we can have a standing day for tea and things, like today. Tell me a bit at least,” her friend prodded.

Felicity lowered her voice. “I always wondered what was said when my parents exchanged looks. Often Mother’s cheeks would turn pink. Father smiled as if holding a secret, and neither met my gaze. Now I know that they enjoyed time together the night before.”

The noise of the tea shop enveloped them as Hannah considered what Felicity told her. “Nothing like that ever happens at my house. As a matter of fact, I wonder why they are married. My parents are friendly to one another, yes, but in a distant type of way. They do not share a bedroom, and most certainly, I have never seen them exchange any kind of secret look.”

When Felicity considered it, she realized that in the years of knowing the Kerrs, she’d never once seen them near one another, or for that matter, speak to one another at any gathering.

“That is strange,” she admitted. “Why do you think that is?”

Hannah looked toward the window, seeming to picture herself elsewhere. “One day, Father was in his cups, and he said something to Mother, and I overheard. It seemed that Mother had wished to join the convent and her family forced her to marry my father instead. And to make matters worse…” Hannah’s voice was barely audible. “Father had been deeply in love with someone else.”

“It was an arranged marriage then?” Felicity asked, also whispering.

“Yes,” Hannah replied, once again returning her attention outdoors. “I must say, Mother has such a sweet personality, and despite things, she and father have given me a good upbringing.”

“You will marry for love,” Felicity pronounced, no longer whispering. “I will ensure it.”

After finishing their tea, they walked across the street to the same antiquities shop that Felicity had sold the painting.

She hoped the man was not angry with her.

“Ladies, welcome.” He greeted Hannah with a warm smile, but his eyes narrowed and the smile disappeared when meeting Felicity’s gaze. “You did not inform me that the painting was created by Mrs. Sorcha Robertson,” he said with an unreadable tone.

Felicity swallowed, managing a wide smile. “Oh, was it?”

“Yes, it was,” the man said, and he let out a long breath. “It hangs over in the next room.”

Despite herself, she looked in the direction, and sure enough, it was visible from the doorway, the garish colors sharply contrasting with the otherwise tasteful décor.

“I will never sell it,” the man proclaimed.

“I am so sorry,” Felicity said, tearing her gaze from the monstrosity. “I feel badly.”

“Why?” the man said. “Because of it, Mrs. Robertson and I have gotten to know one another. She and I are making plans to travel to Spain and Europe for an extended period. I feel as if I owe you more than I paid.”

The man’s expression softened, and his gaze became unfocused.

Hannah and Felicity exchanged a look, neither wishing to picture the normally austere older man in a passionate moment.

“I am seeking a gift for my mother.” Hannah grabbed Felicity’s hand and pulled her to a room where small trinkets were displayed. “A box.”

The man insisted on trailing behind them, informing Felicity of each and every time he and Sorcha had met because of the painting being there. How at first the woman had been insulted, but upon learning he would display it permanently, she’d been delighted.

It took over an hour to get out of the shop, both walking a bit away before dissolving into laugher.