Chapter Twenty-EightMaria
Wensday, March the First
I'd never been in Jacob's company alone, except for that carriage ride. I squealed with joy as I pretended he was my beau. Was I now leading a triple life, an adulterous wife alone with a man who'd professed his love for me? I'd never even read a novel quite like this. I needed not be coy and coquettish with Jacob, having known him so long. But his heartfelt confession put me on guard, lest I further his ardor.
As we reached Jacob's mansion, I gaped in wonder. “Oh, Jacob, this is more magnificent than last time.” Candles blazed in the chandeliers visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
“Oh, not really.” He alighted from the carriage and assisted me out. His hand lingered on mine after my feet touched the ground. This time an olde
