The Winds Of Fortune Episode 26
Minnie was in the library.
In theory, she was searching for a new book to read, but in reality, she was far too distracted to do anything.
Instead, she wandered over to the French windows and gazed at the garden.
It was hard to rediscover her accustomed calm with everything that had happened. She felt emotionally wrung out.
Perhaps a walk would do her good.
She decided to ask if her mother would like to join her, and was about to go in search of her when the library door opened.
She turned to see Ivor entering the room.
Colour flooded her face and for a second she wanted to run away.
On a moment’s reflection, however, she realised that it was best to get this over with as soon as possible.
“I’m sorry to disturb your peace, Miss Vandunlan, but they said I would find you here.” Ivor walked towards her, an anxious look on his face.
He had clearly made an effort with his appearance today.
He was wearing a smart three-piece suit, his brogues gleamed and his moustache was neatly trimmed.
“That’s quite all right, Mr Dodson-Smyth. Shall we?”
They each took a seat, either side of the large desk, and Minnie folded her hands and waited.
“I don’t wish to importune you, Miss Vandunlan, but we were interrupted at a most inconvenient moment the other afternoon by your American friend.”
Minnie inclined her head and avoided his eye.
“I think I now know what your answer will be,” Ivor continued, “but I couldn’t rest until I was certain.”
Ivor looked down at his hands, his brow furrowed.
“I had made my feelings clear to you before Mr Cranby arrived, and I was about to ask you to be my wife.
“My wishes are unchanged, but I fear I may have met you too late.”
Minnie looked up at him with compassion.
He was such a kind, good man, and would make someone a wonderful husband – but it would not be her.
“Mr Dodson-Smyth, I am grateful to you for your proposal and honoured by your regard. However, I am afraid you are right.
“I came here with my affections already taken. Mr Cranby and I were about to be engaged when our families lost everything, else we would be planning our wedding already.”
Despite her answer, Ivor now looked at her with shock and compassion.
“I am very sorry for you both and pray that your circumstances will improve and enable you to be married soon. I only want your happiness, Miss Vandunlan.”
Minnie knew this was true.
“Thank you. I, too, wish you happiness. I am certain that, one day soon, you will meet someone wonderful who will love you as much as you love her.”
Ivor did not look convinced, but he smiled, despite the sorrow in his eyes.
“You are very kind, and I appreciate your honesty with me. I hope we can still remain friends.”
“I would like that very much.” Minnie smiled.
He gave her one last glance, then rose to his feet, bowed and left the room.
As the door closed behind him, Minnie wasn’t sure if she felt more relief or sorrow.
She was glad the decision was made and that it was all over, but it was painful to hurt such a lovely man.
She stood up, smoothed down her dress and began to pace up and down the parquet floor.
The heels of her T-bar shoes beat a tattoo as she walked, and she twisted her long necklace between her fingers.
How she hoped she had done the right thing, but what else was there to do?
She was in love with Theo and he with her. There was no other option.
To be continued…