“Constitution,” JT repeated. “I don’t know what that is, but Papa thought it was important, so I do too.”

Luke chuckled. “A good constitution will see you through many a bad time.”

They ate in silence while the baby cooed and babbled. Finally, after his second pie was gone, Luke spoke up.

“Regarding the adoption, I apologize for not talking it over with you. I knew I needed to act fast.”

“You hardly need my permission. She is your niece.”

“But I feel it is important to discuss everything with you that is related to Sally. She is yours as much as mine. I want you to know that I mean that.”

“Maybe you could adopt all of us,” JT said, grinning. “Then we’d be one big family.”

“I’d like that,” Luke said, surprising Gloriana. “I really would.”

She didn’t know what to say. She looked down at her plate. It wasn’t exactly a proposal, but she couldn’t help but feel that was his intention. The thought made her tremble. Everything would be wrapped up in perfect order if they married. She knew there were strong feelings between them, but they never talked about it.

She met his gaze, knowing he was expecting her to say something. Be brave, she told herself. Speak up and let him know how you feel. Don’t hide from love.

Gloriana swallowed the lump in her throat. “I’d like it too.”

Chapter 18

“I’m so glad you could come to tea, Gloriana. I miss having time with you and your mother.” Greta Sedgwick handed Gloriana a cup and saucer while Sally slept soundly on the little settee.

Gloriana lifted the steaming liquid to her mouth and paused to breathe in the rich aroma. “I’m glad I could come. I’ve missed our times together.” She didn’t add that it was still hard to leave the house—to talk to old friends and, worst of all, pretend life was normal.

Mrs. Sedgwick took her seat and nodded. “Life without your mother must be quite difficult. Every girl wants to be able to consult their mother, especially on matters of the heart. In her absence, might I be a substitute, albeit a poor one?”

“You aren’t a poor substitute, Mrs. Sedgwick.” Gloriana offered her a smile before sampling the tea. It was quite good. She lowered the cup. “You were my mother’s dearest friend, and as such you are the natural substitute. Mama would be honored to know you were here, sharing such love with me.”

If only I can bear it without tears.

Mama had been close with Greta Sedgwick, and the friendship shared by the two women was admired by many. Gloriana had never really considered how much the older woman must miss Mama. Gloriana had been so concerned with her own misery that she hadn’t given anyone else consideration.