Chapter 13

Chapter 13

Walking toward the library, Isabella smiled at this new part of her daily routine.

Her hour—although it was often more—spent with Daniel now always started in the library with some talk of literature, before a walk in the garden to clear their minds. It was easily the most thrilling part of her day, and her heart raced faster at the thought of spending more time with her employer.

These feelings were dangerous, she knew that much, but truly exciting too.

Her footsteps echoed softly against the wooden floor as she neared the library door. Pausing for a moment to smooth her apron and steady her breathing, she pushed the door open and stepped inside. The scent of aged paper and polished wood welcomed her, a comforting reminder of the countless hours she had spent here with Daniel.

He was already there, seated in his usual chair by the window, a book open in his hands. The morning light filtered through the glass, casting a warm glow over his golden hair. He looked up as she entered, a smile spreading across his face.

"Good morning, Isabella," he greeted, closing the book and setting it aside. "I was just thinking about our discussion yesterday on Shakespeare. Have you given more thought to what we talked about?"

Isabella felt a blush rise to her cheeks but managed to keep her voice steady. "Good morning, Daniel." It still felt strange to call him by his first name, but she was trying her hardest to get used to it because she could see it was what he preferred. "I have indeed. I find myself even more intrigued by the complexity of his characters, especially in ‘Much Ado About Nothing.'"

Daniel's eyes sparkled with interest. "Ah, yes. Benedick and Beatrice. Their wit and banter are quite something."

She took her place opposite him, her hands folding neatly in her lap. "I think Beatrice is such a strong character, not afraid to speak her mind despite the constraints of her time."

Daniel laughed. "I quite agree. She is fascinating."

"Are we going to read more Shakespeare today?"

Daniel shook his head, much to her surprise. "I thought we might try something new today."

"Something new?" Isabella echoed, her curiosity piqued.

Daniel reached behind him to a small table where another book lay. It was bound in deep green leather, the cover unmarked save for a simple embossed title.

"Jane Austen," he said, holding the book up for her to see. "I thought we could explore ‘Pride and Prejudice.' It's one of my favorites, and I think you'll find it quite engaging."

Isabella's eyes lit up. She had heard of Jane Austen but had never had the opportunity to read her works. "I would love that, Daniel."

He smiled warmly and handed her the book. "Would you like to start us off with the first chapter?"

Taking the book, Isabella opened it to the first page, the crisp sound of the paper bringing her a small thrill of anticipation. She began to read, her voice steady and clear, filling the room with Austen's words. Daniel watched her, his expression thoughtful and content, clearly enjoying the shared moment.

As she read, Isabella found herself increasingly captivated by the story and its characters. The wit and social commentary resonated with her, and she could not help but draw parallels between the characters' struggles and her own. When she finished the first few chapters, she looked up to find Daniel still gazing at her, his blue eyes soft and intent.

"That was wonderful," he said, but his tone was measured. "What do you think of it so far?"

"I think it's fascinating," Isabella replied, though her enthusiasm was tempered by uncertainty. "Elizabeth Bennet is so spirited and intelligent. I admire her courage to speak her mind. But…I do not quite understand Mr. Darcy. He seems so arrogant and aloof, as if he thinks he is better than everyone else."

Daniel leaned back slightly, his gaze sharpening. "But is that not part of the point? Darcy's arrogance is a reflection of his upbringing, of his status. He has been taught to see the world a certain way, and yet, beneath that exterior, there's a depth to him. His proposal, for instance…"

"His proposal?" Isabella interrupted, a frown forming. "He insults Elizabeth, talks about how inferior she is, and then expects her to be grateful? I don't see how that is defensible, Daniel."

Daniel's brow furrowed. "I am not defending his approach, but I think there is more to consider. He is risking his reputation, his social standing. It is not just about love. It is about defying expectations, challenging the norms of his society."

Isabella shook her head. "But that is the problem. He is so caught up in his own importance that he cannot even see how hurtful he is being. Elizabeth has every right to refuse him."

"Of course she does," Daniel replied, his voice a touch firmer now. "But you cannot ignore the fact that he is willing to change, to grow. That is what makes his character so compelling."

"Maybe," Isabella conceded, though her tone suggested she was not entirely convinced. "But it is hard for me to forgive someone who thinks they are entitled to another person just because they have lowered themselves to ask."

For a moment, silence hung between them, heavy with unspoken thoughts. Daniel's gaze softened, and he let out a small sigh. "I suppose we are seeing different sides of the same coin."

Isabella met his eyes, a flicker of something unresolved passing between them. "Perhaps. It is just…I cannot help but feel that some things should be more straightforward, that some lines should not be crossed."

Their discussion, though rooted in the novel, had edged closer to something personal. Neither of them spoke it aloud, but the obstacles in Austen's world echoed the unspoken tensions in their own.

For a moment, they simply looked at each other, the air between them charged with unspoken feelings. Isabella's heart pounded in her chest, and she wondered if Daniel could hear it.

Despite everything, Isabella felt a thrill of pride at his approval. These discussions were not just about the books—they were a meeting of minds, a connection that went beyond words. She cherished these moments, where she felt seen and valued for who she was, not just her station in life.

Breaking the silence, Daniel cleared his throat and stood up. "Shall we take our walk in the garden? The weather is perfect today."

Isabella nodded, grateful for the opportunity to compose herself. "Yes, that sounds lovely."

They left the library and stepped outside into the garden, the summer sun bathing everything in a warm, golden light. The scent of roses and freshly cut grass filled the air, and Isabella felt her tension ease as they strolled along the gravel paths.

But Isabella had something on her mind, and it was something that she could not keep locked away inside any longer. "Daniel, do you ever worry about what people will say? About us spending so much time together?"

Her heart pounded. She had no idea if she should even ask this.

But it was too late now.

He looked at her, his expression serious. "Of course I do. But I have come to realize that the opinions of others matter less to me than the truth of my own heart. And my heart tells me that our time together is worth any risk."

Isabella's heart swelled with emotion. She had never felt so understood, so valued.

"I feel the same way," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Although Isabella could not ignore what burned underneath the surface. The knowledge that their connection, however genuine, was destined to remain hidden in the shadows. Their worlds were too different, and nothing could ever change that.

She needed this job. The steady income, the chance to work with books and ideas she loved, and the opportunity to continue learning—these were things she could not afford to lose. And Daniel, for all his genuine feelings, had a life filled with responsibilities and expectations she could never truly be a part of.

I have to put my feelings aside , she resolved, her heart heavy with the weight of her decision. I cannot let this jeopardize everything. For his sake and mine.

"…I do not feel like I have the energy to attend another ball…"

All of a sudden, Isabella realized that Daniel was talking and she was not listening to him. She shook her head and tried to refocus.

"But balls always sound so wonderful in the books we read together. Full of music, dancing, and lively conversation. It is hard to imagine them being anything but delightful."

Daniel chuckled, shaking his head. "That is the romanticized version, I am afraid. In reality, they're tedious affairs, filled with superficial chatter and people jockeying for status. I would much rather spend the evening reading with you."

Her heart fluttered at his words, but she kept her voice light. "You make it sound dreadful. Perhaps it is not as bad as you think. Maybe you will meet someone interesting or at least have a decent meal."

"I have met every member of the ton ," he shot back wryly. "Dancing with you sounds far more enjoyable."

Isabella's heart raced at Daniel's words, the implication both thrilling and terrifying. She tried to keep her composure, though she could feel a blush rising to her cheeks.

"Dance with me?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper.

Daniel stepped closer, his eyes never leaving hers. "Yes, dance with you. Would you like that?"

A mix of excitement and anxiety bubbled up inside her. She had never been to a ball, never learned the steps of those elegant dances.

"I would," she admitted softly, "but I do not know how to dance. Dancing is not something that fits into my life."

A smile spread across Daniel's face, warm and inviting. "Then let me teach you."

Without another word, he extended his hand to her. She hesitated for a moment, then placed her hand in his, feeling the warmth of his skin against hers.

"First, we need the right posture," Daniel said, positioning himself in front of her. He gently placed her left hand on his shoulder and took her right hand in his. "Now, stand up straight, but relaxed. Feel the music in your head."

Isabella nodded, trying to follow his instructions. She felt clumsy and self-conscious, but Daniel's calm presence was reassuring.

"Let us start with a simple waltz," he said, taking a step forward. "Just follow my lead."

He began to move, guiding her with a gentle but firm touch. At first, she stumbled, her feet tangling awkwardly, but Daniel was patient, his movements smooth and confident. Slowly, she began to find the rhythm, matching his steps with her own.

But just as she though that she was starting to get it, Isabella stepped on Daniel's foot. He winced dramatically, making her giggle.

"Oh no, I'm so sorry!" she exclaimed, her face flushing with embarrassment.

Daniel laughed, shaking his head. "You are doing fine. Let's try again. Just relax and follow my lead."

They resumed their dance, but moments later, Isabella tripped over a tree root, causing her to lurch forward. She grabbed onto Daniel to steady herself, and they both stumbled, nearly falling over. Humiliation burned right through her body.

"Graceful as a swan," Daniel teased, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

Isabella laughed, unable to help herself. "I suppose I am not cut out to be a dancer."

"Nonsense," Daniel said, steadying her. "You are doing fine. Besides, even the best dancers have their moments."

He gave her a reassuring smile and a wink.

As they continued, their laughter filled the grove. Isabella accidentally spun the wrong way, nearly colliding with Daniel.

"You are supposed to go right, not left," he said with a chuckle, gently guiding her back in to place.

"Right, not left. Got it," she repeated, concentrating hard.

As they resumed their dance, Isabella focused on following Daniel's lead, her determination growing with each step. Despite the occasional misstep or awkward stumble, Daniel's patient guidance and lighthearted humor kept the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable.

"You are getting the hang of it," Daniel said, his voice warm with encouragement. "Just let yourself flow with the music."

Isabella nodded, trying to match his fluid movements. She found herself becoming more confident, her steps smoother and more in sync with his. The rhythm of their dance became a silent conversation, an unspoken understanding passing between them.

"See?" Daniel said, his smile brightening. "You are doing wonderfully."

Isabella's heart soared at his praise. "Thank you," she said, her voice soft. "I never thought I could dance like this."

"It is all about trusting yourself and your partner," Daniel replied. "And you are doing both beautifully."

Isabella could not help but be enchanted by Daniel's words. Trusting herself and him—it seemed simple, yet it carried a weight she could not ignore. But she knew that she needed to ignore it, as much as she possibly could, or she would ruin everything. And working with Daniel was not something that she could lose.