Discuss your feelings with Edward

By the time the hunting party returned, the servants had already cleared away the remains of luncheon.

Horses were watered, rifles inspected, and conversations drifted lazily between the gentlemen as they stretched their legs before getting ready for another hunting activity before the evenings dinner.

Sir Edward was speaking with one of the gamekeepers when he noticed you approaching.

"There you are."

"I trust everything went smoothly back at the house?"

"Very smoothly, sir."

Edward nodded approvingly.

"I knew I could leave matters in capable hands."

He thanked the gamekeeper and gestured for you to walk aside with him.

"I've been wondering," he said after a moment.

"How are you settling in here?"

"Very well, sir."

"The household has been most welcoming."

"I'm pleased to hear it."

There was a comfortable silence between you before you spoke again.

"If I may be so bold, sir..."

Edward glanced towards you.

"Go on."

"I've become rather acquainted with one of Lord Ashcombe's housemaids."

A faint smile appeared on Edward's face.

"Have you indeed?"

"Miss Emily Carter."

Edward chuckled quietly.

"I wondered whether it might be her."

"You did?"

"I've noticed the two of you speaking."

He folded his hands behind his back.

"She seems a pleasant young woman."

"She is."

There was a brief pause.

"I find I rather enjoy her company."

Edward's smile widened.

"There's no shame in admitting that."

"I wasn't certain it was appropriate."

"My dear fellow."

He laughed.

"If a gentleman cannot admire an honest, respectable young woman, then the world has become a very odd place indeed."

His expression grew a little more thoughtful.

"If your interest proves genuine... I should advise patience. You've only just met."

"I understand, sir."

"But I would encourage you to continue speaking with her. A good marriage ought to begin with friendship."

You smiled.

"Thank you, sir."

Edward nodded before glancing towards the ladies gathered beneath the shade of several large oaks.

"As it happens..."

"I've been forced to take some of my own advice."

You followed his gaze.

Lady Charlotte stood speaking with her father.

"I believe I've finally reached a decision."

"You have, sir?"

"I have."

"I intend to ask Lord Ashcombe whether I might court Lady Charlotte."

He smiled, almost sheepishly.

"I never expected to find myself saying those words… Yet here we are."

"I'm pleased for you, sir."

"I appreciate that."

Edward adjusted the cuffs of his riding gloves.

"Whatever comes of it, I should rather regret leaving without asking."

A hunting horn sounded somewhere deeper within the estate.

Several gentlemen began making their way back towards their horses.

Together, you returned to the waiting party, each carrying thoughts of a young woman who had made a stronger impression than either of you had anticipated.