“Well?” Mr. Kemp extended a hand in invitation. “Shall we?”
That was really my last chance. I could have said no and still returned to my old life. Mr. Kemp had told me that, despite my recent behaviour and tattered reputation, John Forres still wanted me as his wife, so I could have all the clothes, dances, balls, and security that any woman would desire, or I could head for love with this enigmatic mechanic and live in poverty beyond the fringes of society.
Was I tempted? Of course, I was, but not for long. And nor would you be, my dears, not as a healthy, red-blooded eighteen-year-old with all a young girl"s hopes and desires running through your body.
“Of course we shall.” I took hold of his hand and allowed him to lead me into a life of hardship and poverty.
According to Mr. Kemp,
