Newton’s Niece. Derek Beaven

myself smile suddenly. ‘Reasonable, Charles.’

      ‘For God’s sake, Kit, I love you. I’m the uncertain one. Do you understand? I have fallen in love with you.’

      ‘But what does that mean for me? What am I expected to do? Exactly.’

      ‘Don’t you have … some feeling for me? Kit, I’m supposed to be a busy man. A public man. And I’m … crucified. Forgive the reference.’ He put his head in his hands to hold the frustration.

      I heard myself sigh as I put down my sash, although my teeth were now clenched tight. I wished I could force myself out of my body; out of the room. Instead I started untying the bows at the front of my bodice. After a while he looked up.

      ‘Good God. What are you doing?’

      ‘Undressing.’

      ‘Stop. Stop it at once. Do yourself up. By God’s blood you’ll see me under. Are you a whore? How many lovers have you had, Madam? And I thought I was assured of your absolute chastity.’

      ‘You were what? How were you assured?’

      Charles looked lost. He said: ‘I’ve known you since … when was it? … Ninety-three?’