Read into My Heart

Chapter Twenty-Three

Taking a sip of her tea, Miranda turned back to her parents as they discussed their next steps for the future. "I think a cottage in the country would be lovely," Miranda said. "It would certainly get us away from all the gossip of society."

Her father gave a chuckle. "Remember Miranda, we are not running away to hide. But we are going to need to downsize and a cottage would be more economical."

"I would love to keep on some of the servants," her mother interjected, "Especially Bridget. Though I think she would go regardless even if we couldn't afford her wages."

Miranda laughed. "She is determined."

Just then a knock was heard on the front door, making them all pause and give one another puzzling looks. They hadn't had one caller since the rumors broke out, so who could be calling now?

"Are you expecting anyone?" Miranda asked.

"No," her mother answered. "Thomas?"

"I think in a moment we are going to find out," her father said, as the footman entered to announce the caller.

"Lady Evelyn Archer."

"Evelyn!" Miranda exclaimed as she watched Alex's sister walk in, a smile on her face like she didn't have a care in the world. "What are you doing here? Did anyone see you?"

Evelyn laughed, waving her hand in dismissal. "Although I give no weight to the rumors, I came in an unmarked carriage just in case. I knew you would be distraught for me."

Her mother, ever the gracious host, rose from her seat to greet her. "Please join us for tea, Lady Evelyn. Though we appreciate your visit, I'm sure you're here on more than just a social call."

"That is correct," Evelyn said as she took a seat beside Miranda. "I'm here on behalf of my brother. He wants to meet with you again. If you are willing, I'm to bring you back with me when I return home."

Miranda hesitated. "Did he say what the purpose of this meeting was?"

"Only that he wants to talk. I think he's ready to admit that he made a mess of things the first time around."

Miranda couldn't help but laugh. "That would be an understatement." She sobered quickly though at the thought of seeing Alex again. She wasn't sure her heart would be able to handle another break. "I don't know Evelyn, I feel that I'm finally accepting God's purpose for my life and am ready to move on."

Evelyn gripped one of her hands. "Just hear him out Miranda, that's all I ask."

"I agree with Lady Evelyn," her father interjected. "I think you need to take into account Miranda, that God might be using you to reach out to Lord Carlisle. His ways are not our ways."

Miranda took a moment to think. She did desperately want Alex to know that he was perfect just the way he was. But what if she went back only to be hurt again? That might just be a risk she will have to take.

"Okay," Miranda said, "I'll go with you."

Evelyn hugged her. "You have no idea how much this means to me. How much it will mean to Alex."

Miranda gave her new friend a reassuring smile, though on the inside she was quaking at the thought of seeing Alex again.

Miranda and Evelyn left immediately in the waiting carriage. As they sat across from one another, Miranda couldn't help thinking about how much Evelyn must love her brother.

"You took a great risk today coming to see me," Miranda said. "Even in an unmarked carriage."

"It was all worth it I assure you," Evelyn responded. "How you have been treated by society is absolutely deplorable. And all because of what one person told Mrs. Benson they saw."