—- A Solemn Man (Chapter 10)
Mrs. Wheatley had given her just a bit of laudanum, not wanting to dose her too heavily lest she sleep too deeply and too long. It had been just enough that, combined with the rain, she had slept for an hour or so and awakened from her nap much improved. Groggily, she opened her eyes to a warm room, the sound of rain and a crackling fire, and the sight of Alexander Colbourne staring into the flames. For a moment, she enjoyed the sight of him. It was as if she had no past and not future, but floated in an oasis of peace and calm. In that beautiful space, she knew him and loved him. It was so easy, natural and simple. She was charmed by the beauty of his face and, as she had once stated, she felt "I must know who you really are". Then the memories came rushing back and the realization took her breath away. She gasped sharply. Mr. Colbourne turned his head towards her in sudden surprise. When he smiled she could not help but smile back, in spite of everything.
Augusta rushed forward "Miss Heywood, you are awake. Thank goodness. We were so worried for you."
"Augusta. Oh, thank you… but really, it is not serious. I mean, it is quite painful, but it never lasts too long and there is no lasting damage."
Augusta turned to her Uncle, "Uncle, shall we fetch the tea tray?" They had sent the first tray back when Ms. Heywood was found to be napping. The kitchen had been put on alert and was on alert to send up a new tray.
Dizzily, Charlotte started to push herself up in bed. "Oh, please. Do not go to such trouble. I will just…" She trailed off and pulled the covers up, realizing she was in a nightgown. She was in a BED, in a NIGHTGOWN. IN ALEXANDER COLBOURNE'S HOME. Suddenly overcome, she laid back down. Searching for words to convey her array of emotions she stammered "I..I.. am so mortified to have put you all to such trouble."
Beverly and Augusta were standing nearby as Alexander stood. "Miss Heywood, I assure you there was nothing to be mortified about. Nor was there anything that could have been done differently. I am going to fetch your tea and Augusta and Beverly will help you dress if you feel up to it."
"Than..thank you. I think that would be best." She glanced up at him, "Mr. Colbourne, do you think we could move to the parlor? I could recline on the chaise lounge and it would be much more proper. I would leave immediately for home but I do not think I am quite ready"
"Miss Heywood, I am at your service. Whatever will lead to your comfort and well-being will be done, with one caveat. I must speak with you."
She started to speak but he held up a hand. With a gentle look and small smile he asked her "Please trust me, Miss Heywood. I know that I have not acted previously in a manner that would lead to such trust, but I ask it of you all the same. I promise not to disrespect your trust, if you will only place a small amount of it in my care. I would be honored."
She looked down. "I can hardly refuse after your gallantry today."
"If you wish to refuse, I will accept your refusal. Nothing I have done today was in expectation of compelling anything from you. Truly. You have my solemn word."
She felt a bit confused, dizzy, and disoriented. It was like a kind of residue left over from the headache and she felt fragile because of it. She nodded. She wanted to hear what he had to say, anyway. "Very well, I will trust you Mr. Colbourne"
