There was one phrase that Caroline hated above all else: it isn’t that simple. It didn’t matter who uttered it to her or what the context the mere start of it directed at her made Caroline’s lip purse and her arms fold belligerently. Everyone liked the idea that things were complicated that they were never as simple as they seemed, when in reality, if boiled down, they more than often were that simple.

A deep sigh escaped Caroline’s lips as she angled her body to face his, preparing for the fight they had been about to have. Deep down she knew this argument wasn’t only about his finding another woman, it was about even staying here in London. She certainly wasn’t ready to go home yet. “We’ve been against greater odds, Shawn.” Caroline started, keeping her tone in check, but there wasn’t nothing to disguise the fire behind it. “So what if they aren’t exactly what they want. How are we supposed to achieve anything if we limit ourselves? Why stop where we are when we can go so much higher?” Caroline’s voice grew with intensity at each question. “Let them talk. People always will, but don’t let it limit us. Besides, Imogen isn’t the only person we will know once the Season starts. There will be plenty of young women to meet, and showing her that you’ve moved on is the perfect way to start moving forward. With her, with London, with this whole country.”