You see Charlotte nearby

After watching Blackwood disappear among the trees, you made your way towards the meadow where the ladies had gathered while the gentlemen prepared for the afternoon's hunt.

Lady Charlotte stood a short distance from the others, gazing absent-mindedly across the woodland.

She noticed your approach and offered a polite smile.

"Mr. Thomas."

"My lady."

"I hadn't expected to see you wandering out here."

"Sir Edward gave me an hour."

She laughed softly.

"It seems we both enjoy escaping the crowds."

There was warmth in her voice.

Yet something about her smile seemed... restrained.

"You seem troubled," you said gently.

Charlotte hesitated.

"Do I?"

"A little."

For a brief moment she looked away towards the trees.

"It has been rather an exhausting morning."

"I imagine these gatherings can be demanding."

"They can."

She folded her hands before her.

"There is always someone wishing to speak with you."

"Some conversations are more welcome than others."

The remark was delivered lightly.

Even so, you sensed there was more behind it.

"I hope no one has caused you discomfort."

Charlotte met your eyes for only a moment.

"No."

Then, after the slightest pause, she amended herself.

"Nothing I cannot manage."

You recognised the careful choice of words.

She had answered without truly answering.

Deciding not to press the matter, you steered the conversation elsewhere.

"I've found Kingsmere to be every bit as beautiful as Sir Edward described."

"It has always been my favourite place."

Charlotte's expression softened.

"When I was little, I would disappear into the gardens for hours."

"My father was forever sending half the household to look for me."

"I imagine you gave them quite the fright."

"Oh, constantly."

She laughed, and this time it reached her eyes.

"I wasn't trying to be troublesome. I simply just wanted somewhere quiet."

"I think I understand."

She studied you for a moment.

"You seem to appreciate peaceful places yourself. The kinds of places where Sir Blackwood doesn’t corner you and tries to charm you", she said with a dry laugh.

A voice called her name from across the meadow.

One of the older ladies beckoned her back to the rest of the party.

"I ought to go."

"Of course, my lady."

She offered a small curtsy before taking a step away.

Then she paused.

"I'm glad we spoke again, Mr. Thomas."

"So am I."

Her smile lingered for a heartbeat before she rejoined the others.

You watched her disappear into the gathering.

The conversation had been brief, and she had revealed very little. But the short meeting had been sincere.