“Why did you come home early?”
“The duchess—that is, the dowager duchess—I’m the duchess, good God! Anyway, she sent word of Auntie Iris’s impending nuptials, so Daniel and I decided to come home a few days earlier than originally planned.”
“That’s wonderful, but I’m sure Aunt Iris didn’t want to cut your trip short.”
“No, no. We were glad to come home. We did have a splendid time though. I have finally seen the Louvre! France is absolutely wonderful.”
“I want to hear all about it.”
“You shall. But first, I have the most wonderful news!”
“What?”
“I’ve been feeling wretched!”
“So have I,” Rose said dryly. “Why is that wonderful news?”
“Because,” Lily smiled, “I’ve missed my courses!”
“Oh! Lily, you don’t mean… That’s perfectly marvelous! I’m so happy for you.” Rose embraced her sister. Then, “Oh my God.”
“What is it?”
“Your courses. You’ve missed your courses.”
“Yes.”
“And you’re feeling wretched.”
“Yes. I’ve never been so happy to feel so terrible!”
“Of course, I’m thrilled for you, but…”
“What is it, Rose?”
“I’ve been feeling terrible too, Lily. I haven’t even thought about my courses. I never even imagined…”
“Rose?”
“But it’s been a while since I last… Oh my God, it was way before…”
“Rose, what are you trying to say?”
“Oh no.” Tears welled in Rose’s eyes.
“Rose, you didn’t…”
“Yes, I did. What am I going to do?”
Lily took her sister’s hand. “Who was it?”
“Cameron, of course. There was never anyone else.”
“What of Lord Evan?”
“He and I have ended our relationship.”
“You mean he didn’t propose?”