““How can I allow myself to get close to you when I know you are keeping something from me—from all of us.” Her eyes sparked with pain, turning her light eyes inky-blue. “Why are my affairs any concern of yours?” “Because I care about you, Kitty. How many times must I say it?” “Aye.” She straightened her posture and lifted her chin. “You care about me as much as you care about the other Tories in this town, which is frighteningly little. Because I haven’t yet embraced the idea of liberty, you choose to view me as less than worthy.” Her words burned like a white-hot iron. He held his jaw rigid. “You know that isn’t true.” “Is it not? I’ve seen the affection in your eyes, but you evade the inconvenient declaration of love because it spoils your perfect future.” He yanked her forward. “Kitty, that is unfair. You know I care about you more than anyone. Ever since I met you I haven’t been able to think about anyone else.” “Can you admit we are more than friends, Nathaniel? Can you say that you love me?” Kitty’s large eyes blinked. “I know you cannot.” Nathaniel’s””
