The Gentleman of Greenstoke

XI.

It was the very next day, as Arthur entered the drawing room. Hours before, everyone had joined together for breakfast, except for one: Miss Honda. He was told that she was feeling unwell and had no appetite at that morning. Although it was the truth – considering the circumstances from last night – which did hurt Miss Honda more than she admitted, Arthur was still worried for her. The man had been thinking about the shy Japanese all night, reminding himself of the harsh choice of words he had used to form his reply when Alfred had confronted him. The American had been honest in his confrontation, because he knew about the real reason of Arthur's conflicted behaviour.

Silence filled the room as the party was eating. Upon looking at his cousin, Arthur noticed his strange expression. Alfred was sympathising with him and he was not certain what had caused him to do so. 'Is he still thinking of our last discussion?' he asked himself, not realising that his mind was filled with the same memory. After some minutes, Alfred asked Yao about his new plans of creating his business in England, leaving his cousin to tend to his thoughts. Sometimes, the room erupted in laughter and voices but Arthur could still feel the unexplainable tension in the dining room.

Sakura had decided to stay in her room longer than intended. She had excused her presence with the reason of not feeling any appetite which she concluded could have been caused by last night's events. The woman had not planned on eavesdropping her host's and his cousin's conversation; she had only come with the purpose of thanking Mr Kirkland for his hospitality and agreement on buying her the dresses, her good friends had purchased for her. The moment she had heard his words, was a horrifying experience for her. She did not know why she had already formed any assumptions of spending a lot of time with Mr Kirkland; she was hurt by his choice of words and felt stupid for having dreamed of a future with the man. For weeks she had grown extremely fond of him and had been uncertain if those feelings were reciprocated. Days ago Sakura's hopes had increased due to their strong relationship. Only yesterday had proved her that it was only friendship – and she was not even sure of it; it seemed as if she would only burden den man.

"How could you even think about such an absurd dream," she muttered to herself, shaking her head with a sad smile. "Stupid, stupid, foolish girl."

Nonetheless, the female decided to join the party before lunch was to be served. As she entered the room – with the presence of her personal maid who wanted to make certain that she would arrive the room without feeling ill – all heads turned in her direction. Especially Mr Kirkland's eyes lingered on her form longer than needed. Of course her uncle approached her immediately to inquire after her health. "I am fine," she answered with a light smile before sitting on the settee near the window. Before she could decide to read a book or engage her free time with other ladylike activities, Mr Jones joined her to have a conversation. She froze a little, thinking about yesterday where he had clearly seen her shock. He had witnessed her horrible eavesdropping and was aware of her feelings; Alfred had seen her expression . . . he knew, she was certain of it.

Arthur was relieved and content when Sakura had entered the room. Although her eyes had not settled too long on him, he was thankful for the one glimpse she was giving him. One small detail that was not left unnoticed to his observation, were her eyes. They had a distant look and he could not ignore the troubled feeling in his stomach that was increasing every second. Something was wrong. Without thinking twice, the English man walked to her and his cousin and seated himself on a chair next to Alfred and Miss Honda. The two of them were engaged in a whispering conversation; very strange for the American. With a raised brow, Arthur observed their mimics. Alfred's face was frowning and held a caring look, while Sakura's face remained neutral. But the English Gentleman could see her eyes. Minutes ago they had been distant, but now he could see the sadness they were bearing.