"Mr. Macmillan," Tatiana answered firmly, "there can be no successful marriage between us if you remain at odds with my family. I acknowledge that my cousin may not be in the most...objective position, but both my aunt and my brother have clear minds and opinions I respect most faithfully. If you can sway one to speak to me in your favour in spite of the situation as it stands now, you may consider me yours."

There. He had an easy out, she had an easy out, and everyone was a winner. Mostly her.

"I shall give you a fortnight."