“Is nothing I say to be taken seriously?” I enunciated. “I am out of time, and no one else has offered. By all appearances, he is healthy and handsome and rich and in love with me.” My voice broke, and I hated myself for it. “He is in love with me, William. So why should I not marry him?” He stood there a long moment, jaw working, lips tight. I collected myself, gratified when my voice didn’t shake. “There is absolutely no reason why this match is unsuitable.”
