A Regency Yuletide by Sharon Sobel & Karen Frisch & Sharon Sobel

Author:Sharon Sobel & Karen Frisch & Sharon Sobel
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: BelleBooks, Inc.
Published: 2015-07-07T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter Five

THE FOLLOWING DAY Sophy ruminated over their conversation even as she brooded about it. She would use Jeremy’s words to prepare her to face her conflicts, for she was determined to win the upper hand. Emma and Jane were helping her improve her embroidery skills in the drawing room that afternoon when Barclay rescued her, taking her outdoors despite her crutches, where they could talk privately.

“I applaud St. Laurent’s idea to travel by sleigh,” Barclay said. “You needn’t use that silly sedan chair again, I promise.”

She smiled broadly. “Your friends were thoughtful to consider my comfort. If only they talked about something other than the Season. It isn’t part of my life now.”

“I had hope for Herbert, but I know none of them are right for you. It isn’t a waste, for I plan to take advantage of the holidays to chat up Bella.” Barclay’s cheerfully mischievous wink was replaced by a more serious expression. “Don’t avoid the real subject, Soph. What if you can’t get around well enough in time to sail? You said you depend upon walking in America.”

“I know.” She had no answer. She tried to keep her annoyance from sliding into despair, understanding that he had her interests at heart. Her America dream was not a goal she could relinquish easily.

“I don’t wish to pressure you, but remember how civilized it is here. And think of Mother.” Barclay shook his head. “I guess I don’t understand your desire to leave us. It would be different if we were mean and demanding, but we aren’t that terrible. We might have been as children—”

“Of course you aren’t,” she hastened to assure him with a gentle laugh. “You are still my favorite brother. You were always my champion when we were growing up.”

“And I always shall be. But with Mother getting older, you have to give me a reason to argue for you other than defiance.”

Their conversation left Sophy filled with uncertainty. Even if her family did not understand her motive in leaving, she loved them deeply. Yet their village was quiet and secure. Her life at home was missing a significant way to help those in need.

The passing days brought Sophy little relief from a dilemma that became more poignant with each conversation. Her mother expressed support and understanding of her daughter’s obligation to her responsibilities abroad, words Sophy knew were intended to ease the separation. Yet her agony grew with her indecision as the days passed.

In the meantime she continued to struggle and pray. Now that she had crutches, this would be the first Sunday she could attend church. It was a start, she told herself, one that might help her make a decision that would satisfy her family as well as herself.

In the privacy of her room one evening, she decided the time had come to test her ankle. The only way to ascertain whether there had been any improvement was to stand on it.

Sitting on the edge of her bed, she put gentle but steady pressure on her foot.

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