“I rather think you don’t have to become anything you don’t want.” Daring much, she briefly rested a shaking hand upon his knee before drawing it away. Never had she wished to touch anyone as much as she did him. If she wasn’t careful, it would change into a craving, one he wouldn’t understand, for the absence of connection in the asylum would bring her to desperation soon, and if it was rebuffed, it might break her further.
“You are wise, Caroline. I appreciate your insight.” He said nothing else. Neither did she. Instead, they watched the stars or the lights of the townhouses for long moments. Eventually, he stirred and gained his feet. “Thank you for the reprieve. It’s nice to know that not everyone has leveled untenable expectations on my shoulders.”
She slipped her fingers into his palm when he offered a hand. “I like you as you are.” As their gazes met, a blush jumped into her cheeks. Why, she didn’t know, but he made her feel like falling and flying at the same time. “You be myself let me over others more than.” Well, drat. That was a terrible jumble, but before she could attempt the sentence a second time, he squeezed her fingers.
“I completely understand.” He pulled her hand through the crook of his elbow. “You deserve respect and praise for all the things you are instead of criticism for all you are not. In fact, you should be afforded the freedom and the time to discover everything you wish to be in this life, Caroline.”
She giggled. Tingles danced down her spine, for what she couldn’t say. “Sweep me away and carry me off like a storybook hero?”
A thoughtful look crossed his face. “Let me ponder that possibility.”
Did that mean he would? Her heart beat faster.
When he set them into motion, she sighed, for the brief respite from anxiety was over. “I hope you’ll come to realize that and use it to help you discover your strength.”
“I hope so too,” she answered in a barely audible voice.
If she did, then it might lead to freedom, a place where she could be anything she wanted without limitations and constraints.