His reassurance brought a smile to her face, small though it was, and she tried to keep the relief from seeping into her eyes, but it was hard to do when he placed his hand against her cheek once more. She had half a mind to kiss him, but that was far too improper, completely unnecessary, for a simple talk in his study. That was a thing to be done behind closed doors, between two people with far less between them than Helen and James.

She noticed his slip, but didn't comment on it. That would just lead to more trouble and she knew it. So she just leaned her head ever so slightly against his hand, holding his other between both of hers.

"Why are you so shocked? You're the only person I know who would be interested in something like that."

And the only one of those who would take or escort her. Aside from her own father. James' presence would do wonders for her, especially considering how much time they'd spent together. John had been able to tell immediately when he'd cornered her in the study a few days ago. A fleeting thought crossed her mind, wondering who else knew, who else could tell. She'd have to keep it hidden better and resolved to do so.