But now her scheming aunt warns her away from me. Miss Walker has ignored her, but the seeds of doubt may have been sown. I should invite them both over for a visit and be on my best and most charming behaviour with them, reassure them that I intend only friendship. Or I could ignore them both for a few weeks. Let them stew. If Miss Walker is intent on seeing me again and having me kiss her, then I shall leave it to her to do the chasing. Yes, I shall leave it to her to decide if she wishes to see me again. Although I am keen on her, she is not the only woman in Yorkshire left for me, though it would be most convenient if I could secure her company as she is very pleasing to look at. However, I cannot put all my wager on her, especially if she may be easily distracted from her course by a few words from a nosy aunt.

I am decided then. I shall carry on my business as usual and focus on the Hall and the running of the estate. While Miss Walker sits daintily by as others conduct her business, I have Shibden to manage which is a full-time occupation. There is work on the grounds to complete, inspections of our lands; I must oversee the coal mines, stone and timber reserves, ensure our finances are in order with incomes from our canal and road shares and visit our tenants in need of support.

I shall send the Walkers no invitation but contrive to make sure they hear of me visiting others in the area and being seen about town. I will visit our mutual friend Mrs Priestley again and she will then no doubt tell of my visit when she next sees the Walkers as she rarely keeps anything to herself. That will make her come running to me.

Miss Walker