Hello Stranger

Chapter 9

My Dearest Theo

I have a set date now, of when I am to return home. I will be arriving on April 17, and staying through the 25th. I await it desperately, await seeing the library, await seeing my family, seeing you.

I have written to Martha Seabury, and she doesn't seem as taken with me as you said- though she may just be hiding her blinding feelings for me behind empty words. I'll bet you that's what it is.

Until I do return, you will be the one and only though in my mind.

Yours, now and always,

Phillipa

- - - - -

Dear Phillipa,

I am endlessly happy to hear of your return- though it does feel eternities away. I know in reality it's merely a few weeks, but that might as well be centuries. Until then I will wait patiently here, endlessly twiddling my thumbs.

Martha's been receiving suitors as of late- I believe this has something to do with her sudden lack of interest in you. I also received my first request from a suitor just the other day. I was rather flattered, though, knowing nothing of the man, believe I will have to turn him down.

I won't lie, for a moment I thought you might be the suitor. But, deep down, even then I knew you aren't that dense.

I have had an idea as for what we might do once you return- since you have yet to tell me of your plan to bridge our families, I've been taking matters into my own hands. I thought I might invite over your family for dinner, while you're visiting- as a way to make amends for the fight, now that everyone's cooled down. My father's never one to turn down a polite dinner, and I'm sure your mother has enough sense to say yes.

I won't stop thinking of you for a moment- though I do hope you take some time to think of French, seeing as we must discuss this book once you return.

Yours,

Theodosia Burr

- - - - -

My Dearest Theodosia,

Indeed, I love your plan. Please send an invitation, if you haven't yet- though I'm sure you have, you always seem a step ahead of me.

Who was this suitor? He must have good taste.

Yours, now and always,

Phillipa.

- - - - -

"The Hamiltons?" Her father snorted.

Theodosia bit her lip. "Yes, father, the Hamiltons."

"Why?"

"To make amends- you did give poor Mr. Hamilton a black eye, you know."

"I do not want to hear you saying 'poor Mr. Hamilton' ever again." Her father leaned back against his chair, taking a sip of his tea. "I don't know, Theodosia. I doubt it would end well."

"Well, perhaps it would be a good chance for both of you to prove that you are capable of acting like adults, and not children, as you've before shown."

Her father rolled his eyes. "Hamilton started it."

"You aren't doing a very good job of proving me wrong."

Her father sighed. "I can't promise it won't end in a screaming match."

"Fine. But promise you'll try to keep yourself from punching him in the nose again?"