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Theo’s departure was swiftly followed by some sharp words by the general, which left Daniel’s heart even softer toward the elder granddaughter. Seraphina’s departure had occurred soon after, as the general eased to his feet and told Roger in no uncertain terms what he thought of his ability to control his wife, before telling Letitia to stop her foolish weeping and commanding Daniel not to leave until he returned.
The three of them had sat without a word, although Daniel guessed from the bowed head that at least Mrs. Stapleton joined him in praying silently for those outside.
Dear God, please bring Your peace. And wisdom. And comfort. Please direct our paths and show us what to do.
After what seemed an age, in which Mr. Siddons entered twice and enquired whether they required anything, the general finally limped in, casting Roger a black look that Daniel hoped he’d never receive. A pithy assessment of Roger’s character ensued, which was followed by the man’s stuttered apologies and assurances, and the general’s assertion that he most certainly would ensure that Roger would never be in a position to hurt Seraphina again.
Daniel felt a moment’s sorrow for the man who blanched, begged pardon, and was advised in no uncertain terms that he would be better off to go outside and find his wife and begherpardon, and to send Theodosia back inside.
Upon the young man’s departure, the general exhaled heavily, and Mrs. Stapleton asked hurriedly if he’d like some tea. Daniel suspected he’d want something stronger and was unsurprised when he refused the offer with an “I’m surrounded by nincompoops and fools.”
It was a minute or two more before the door opened and admitted Theodosia. Daniel rose unsteadily, only resuming his seat once she’d settled herself on the sofa next to her mother, across from him, without once looking in his direction.
But he studied her, noting the reddened eyes and nose that spoke of tears and made his heart sore again. How he wished that he could help her, that what he had to say would not simply bring more pain.
“So.” The general exhaled, finally glancing at Daniel. “So you finally confessed.”
“Something I should have done long ago.”
“I don’t know what good would have come of that. We all agreed, did we not? No one person can take responsibility.”
“I am sorry. And I am most concerned about what consequences may ensue.” He dared to glance at Theodosia.
Still no returned gaze.
“Yes,” said her mother. “But I’m afraid I don’t understand what you mean by consequences.”
“He means—” began the general.
“He means,” Theodosia interrupted, her face turned to her mother, “that it is likely that we will be ostracized, at least for a time, until people are prepared to forgive.”
“That is my fear, yes,” Daniel admitted. “Sir, ladies, I truly had no wish for events to descend into shouting matches. I am sick with regret for my role in it all.”
Theodosia’s lips compressed and she bowed her head.
“Oh, what will this mean for us?” Mrs. Stapleton grasped her daughter’s hand. “What will this mean for you, my dear?”
His chest constricted at Theodosia’s shake of head, at poor Mrs. Stapleton’s fluster, and her daughter’s attempt to comfort her. “Mama, would you like me to fetch a cup of tea?”
“Oh my dear, would you?”
She nodded, enquired if either man would wish the same, which Daniel joined the general in declining.
Upon her exit, Daniel turned to her mother. “Mrs. Stapleton, please accept my profound regrets.”
“I know you meant it for the best, but I fear for poor Theodosia.” She shook her head sadly. “She will never find a husband now. Such a thing will likely taint her forever.”
New remorse kneaded his soul.
“Stop being such a watering pot,” her father-in-law grumbled. “Things aren’t as bad as that.”
“Are they not?” she reproached him tearfully. “I worry for her, I truly do. All I want is for dear Theo to be happy, to know the joy of a husband and family as I was blessed to do, and indeed I thought shewashappy. But then with her sister coming—I’m afraid poor Seraphina has never felt like she can live up to Theo’s high standards—”
“Try anyone’s high standards,” the general muttered.
Mrs. Stapleton sighed. “And now, with dear Rebecca going so soon, and I daresay the loss of your company too, sir, she has been quite morose. It’s so much worse than when we thought dear Becky was leaving us before.”
He swallowed. “How so, ma’am?”
