“I most certainly do not.” The image of a smiling Donald flashed before her eyes. “I could have married a charming, kind, and respectable man who loved me, but I chose not to.”

“May I ask why? Didn’t you love him?”

“Not enough to build my world around his. Do you think that is selfish of me?”

“I think it very brave not to do what most women would.”

“Julia thinks it was a mistake.”

“Poor Julia. I think it more likely she envies you your confidence. Of course you are fortunate in having the means to support yourself.”

“I don’t think I would have married Donald, even if my father had not granted me an allowance.” Margaret grimaced. “At least, I’d like to think so. I miss him so much. Though we rarely met, he was always there in the background, a rock I could rely on. I miss his wise counsel and his humour and—oh dear, that sounds very much as if I regret refusing him, but I don’t.”

“I find that once a decision is made, it is best left at that and not continually questioned.”

“That is sound advice.”

Marion chuckled. “But not so easily followed, I warn you.”

“Well, I’m going to try, and I will start by making my entrance in New York society. You’re quite right: it is bound to be a very different experience from London. We shall have fun!”

“We! I am not so sure I would be as sought after as you by the Mrs. William Astors of this world.”

“They will be obliged to, if they desire my company. They can have both of us, or neither,” Margaret said firmly. “More importantly, we need to find somewhere to live. I have no idea of the costs involved. My allowance seems like an enormous amount to me, but I have never had to run my own establishment.”

“I have established any number of homes for myself and Alexander in my time. I would be delighted to help.”

“And will you stay on and share it with me?” Margaret asked impulsively. “Not forever, but for more than the few months we agreed to?”

Marion did not hesitate. “I will, for the time being, and then we shall see.”

“Excellent.” Above them the sky had darkened. The snow fell suddenly, in a soft flurry, and laughter echoed around the park as people jumped to their feet and held their faces to the sky with childish delight. Margaret gave a little skip of excitement. “I think we are going to be very happy here.”

Chapter Thirty-Two

Chapter Thirty-Two