Sophie sank onto the sofa and leaned her head back against the cushions. It would be a relief to confess her feelings for Reese to her friends. “There’s someone I care for, and I think he cares for me too. We’ve been spending time together … alone.”

Fiona set down her paintbrush and came to sit beside Sophie. “Have you changed your mind about marrying Lord Singleton?”

Sophie shook her head slowly. “I can’t. My family’s financial situation grows more dire by the day. And the man I mentioned … he’s not in a position to help—even if he were so inclined.”

Fiona reached over and squeezed Sophie’s knee. “I wish you’d let Gray and me assist you. He even suggested it again over dinner the other evening. I didn’t mention it to you because I know your feelings, but if you’ve changed your mind…”

“No,” Sophie said hoarsely. “My parents are too proud. I suppose I am too. Perhaps it’s old-fashioned and unenlightened, but I can’t bring myself to rely upon the generosity of friends—even the most wonderful of friends.”

She sniffled, letting out a long sigh before she continued. “This problem won’t go away with the wave of a wand. Even if I could, somehow, repay all my father’s debts today, his profligate tendencies will land him back in trouble. For my family’s sake, I must marry well, and soon. I could do much worse than Lord Singleton,” she said firmly. Almost as though she was trying to convince herself.

Lily hopped off her desk and paced the room. “What about the man you care for?” she said. “If money weren’t an issue, would he be a good match?”

“He would,” Sophie admitted, even though she’d told herself not to dream of such things. “There’s no denying we’re drawn to each other. But I made it clear from the start of our relationship that I intend to marry another.”

“People change their minds all the time,” Fiona said, sympathetic. “I know you want to stand by your word, but if keeping your promise to Lord Singleton means you’re miserable for the rest of your life, you shouldn’t feel obliged to keep that promise.”

“It’s complicated. Reese—the man I’m fond of—only recently and reluctantly came into his title. I don’t think he wants to marry anyone—at least not anytime soon.”

“Even the most steadfast of bachelors has changed his mind about marriage after meeting the right woman,” Fiona said sympathetically. “Have you considered that you might be that woman for Reese?”

Of course she had, despite her resolve to avoid imagining a future that could never be hers. “He’s going through a difficult time and still mourning the loss of his brother. It doesn’t seem right to broach the subject right now.”