River wasn’t much use in the kitchen, but the fact that he offered made Mrs. Lafayette all the more pleased with him.
She and her husband had spent a few days at Wildridge Manor, staying in the York family’s second residence. During that time, they had gotten to know River’s parents well.
And, like any devoted parents, the Yorks had been eager to share stories about their son. That gave the Lafayettes confidence—confidence that this young man could take care of their daughter, that he would give her happiness.
After all, parents only want one thing: for their children to live well.
Still, Mrs. Lafayette couldn’t shake the guilt. She and her husband had thrown themselves into business when their children were young. Work always came first, and the children were left in the care of grandparents. Looking back now, she felt the sting of neglect.
Yes, their children had grown up successful, even admirable—but that didn’t erase the fact that they hadn’t been there enough.
Dinner that evening was warm and lively. River fit in seamlessly, even chatting cheerfully with Old Mr. Lafayette afterward.
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