Everything Has Changed Now

Chapter 10 - Can I trust my husband again?

Chapter Summary:

Following their meeting on the beach, Penelope wonders whether she can trust Colin again and spends some time pondering on it while Colin is so enthusiastic for their second encounter.

_______________________________

Notes:

Apologies for not publishing earlier, my health has not been the best lately and has been unstable. With any luck, I'll post the next ones faster.

This chapter explores Penelope's thoughts for Colin and the current circumstances.

Enjoy the new chapter :)

________________________________

Pen is uncertain how to put in words that she does not wish for Colin to come inside her house, at least not today. She wonders how to tell him that it could be possible another time.

"There is no need, Colin. I will manage on my own. I will." she quickly managed to say.

Colin was about to disagree and she insisted again.

"Please Colin. I can go. Don't worry, I will manage. I am certain. Thank you for accompanying me so far, I appreciate it." Her tone and facial expression conveyed a serious and intense demeanour suggesting that she did not want Colin inside, as she avoided his gaze, seeming embarrassed to point out her statements.

Colin nodded, not arguing more and respecting her privacy despite his heart in disagreement.

"Very well." He gestured to her right hand that he was still holding. "May I?" he asked, looking intently at her and she nodded. He kisses her hand gently and smiles at her.

"I shall see you soon. Take care, Pen." She nodded. Just as she was leaving, Colin added.

"Umm...for the play, it is a high society play, don't worry. Also, no need to rent one, I will come pick you in my carriage and then drop you back. You'll be safer with me instead of riding alone. Get ready by six." Colin reassured her in case she might worry of being seen with him in a play in town while additionally ensuring she was secure under his care.

"Goodbye." he said, offering her a faint smile.

Without further ado, she walked away and got in her house.

Seeing her walk into the home alone and knowing that he won't be there to console her and check on her stings Colin's heart. Despite her stubbornness, he really wanted to go along with her but she had just warmed up to him and he did not want to cause her any frustration to the point that would make her distance herself from him again or leave or worse, feel hurt by his actions.

That night, Colin was unable to sleep so peacefully, even if he is elated after meeting Pen but he is worried sick about her health. The image of her state before she entered her house was stuck in his mind. Though it was not feasible, he longed to go see her in the middle of the night.

Colin dreamed of Pen in the night, not a nightmare but one in which he was close beside her. Pen and him were sitting by the seaside watching the sunset together, holding hands while she was leaning on his shoulder.

He was sorely missing being at her side again.

Penelope did not linger much before retreating to bed. After getting home, she went on her bed to rest until dinner then went to sleep very early. Despite being quite appreciative of her pleasant day with Colin and continued to ruminate about the good moments but she needed effective relaxation. It was crucial that she rested so that when she woke up she could rationally consider the current circumstances and the appropriate course of action of whether she could start to trust Colin or she should hold off on trusting him unlike she did previously.