“I’m not sure,” Henry said. “I confess that for all my stewing over this . . . I’m just not sure. I’ve stayed away because I didn’t want to upset her, but . . .”

“Come back tomorrow . . . same time. I’ll do my best to convince her to see you, and perhaps you can talk.”

“Thank you,” Henry said, his heart beating quickly for an entirely different reason. “I’ll be here.” He nodded toward Everett, who nodded in return, and Henry forced himself to turn and walk back toward the door.

“Either way,” Everett said and Henry stopped, turning back, “might I offer some advice?”

“I’d consider any advice you have to offer very welcome.”

“You have other valid reasons to be social with this family, do you not?” Everett asked.

Henry thought of the invitations he’d turned down and the reasons he and Chit had been invited here in the first place.

Before he could answer, Everett added, “Word has it that the mister and missus very much enjoyed your company, and they are keen on socializing with people who share their love of India. They’ve wondered why you’ve not come back. So . . . pay a visit. You’re a gentleman; you know what’s socially appropriate and what isn’t. I don’t think you’d put on any falseness with the family in order to be around more, but . . .”

“No, I wouldn’t. Of course not. I very much enjoyed the company of Amala’s parents.”

“So pay a visit,” Everett repeated. “Visit often if it suits you and you’re not wearing out your welcome. Perhaps if Amala sees that she’s not going to drive you away, and she has the opportunity to get to know you better, she might soften up some. Can’t hurt any, can it?”

“Thank you, Everett. Your kindness and wisdom mean more than I can say.” He believed Everett wouldn’t be so open with suggestions or a willingness to help if he didn’t respect Henry or trust him to do the right thing. He wanted to say as much but wasn’t sure how to do so without sounding either insensitive or arrogant.

“Glad to help,” Everett said, which neatly summed up Henry’s own thoughts. They shared another mutual nod, and Henry left the carriage house feeling encouraged and hopeful.