Page 44 of Beguiling the Baron

“And you, Hal, are a hypocrite, for you, too, have behaved badly.”

True. But at least he hadn’t made a public spectacle of himself. Though the day was yet young.

“Maybe. But at least I’m prepared to apologize and make amends. I sense no such repentance in yourself.”

She stared straight ahead, her mouth set primly. “I gave you ample opportunity and reason to allow Polly to come to the fair. You chose not to listen.”

“I believe I’m permitted to lay down the law in my own house,” he retorted.

“Not when the law is wrong. Besides, when you let other people into your life, you must expect to have to compromise.”

Also true, but these things took time. He’d been isolated for too long. “Can you not compromise too, Tia? I’ve asked little else of you.”

She turned to him, her brown eyes flashing. “Little else? We’re not allowed to sing, you won’t come to church with us, we don’t have visitors, and Polly never gets to play with anyone her own age.”

He bristled at this. “I never forbade you to have visitors. I merely chose not to be involved if you did.”

“And who’s going to come, knowing you’re too dismal to speak with them?” she countered, warming to her subject.

He wasn’t dismal. Not anymore, and he had her to thank for it. But the thoughts and emotions swirling inside his head and heart were newly-born, making him vulnerable. He needed more time.

“You know I’m not yet fit for company. I’d only spoil your get-togethers.”

“I can’t disagree.”

Her words stung his fragile heart like a lash. He averted his head to hide the hurt—

And discovered Polly had vanished.