Basil felt himself relax a pinch as Ms. Chang let out a breath and agreed that these conversations were both difficult, and tolerable when discussed with a trusted ally. He hoped to be that to her: a trusted ally. He wanted only what was best and made her happy, now and in her future pursuits. If that had been marrying into the upper classes, Basil would have happily introduced her to his single, decently tolerable acquaintances. Fortunately for him, and to Ms. Chang’s credit, that was not her ambition— or at least not solely, if it even was at all, though Basil could hardly see it being. (He wouldn’t have minded though, he supposed. It would be nice to see her friendly face at these ridiculous events he was forced into attending. At least then he’d have someone to converse with about practical, interesting things!) Still, as she threw a glance over her shoulder and peered out into the hallway he felt a pang. It was wretched that they had to be so aware of societal pressures; it wasn’t fair to her, either, being at a distinct disadvantage as a woman. He was somewhat surprised, however, to hear the content of her next statement and a wry grin managed to twist onto Basil’s face despite his attempts to thwart it. Ms. Chang was not wrong. He also, momentarily, frowned at the thought that, hopefully, there was nobody out there pressuring her to do everything alone! It would not only be incredibly insensible, but also rather a stupid suggestion. Anyone who actually knew how their society worked would not be ridiculous enough to assume that a young woman of the middle class with no support from any angle (her family, her finances, a mentor) would have any scrap of luck getting anywhere in their field. It might not be right, but it was simply the way of things. Basil Foxwood was not a purist, classist narcissist but he was certainly pragmatic. And protective. “And you will have it!” he emphasized with a nod. “If, of course, you desire it.”
As Ms. Chang continued on to share details about her family, Basil felt his brow furrow further. Well here was a blow he hadn’t expected. It wasn’t… unusual, per say, even amongst the upper classes, for families to use their daughters to build alliances, strengthen bonds of blood, purity and ambition. It didn’t make hearing her predicament any easier, but Basil supposed he wasn’t shocked by it. An uncharacteristic swell of emotion did manage to ripple through him, however, with an urge to protect her from it. (Basil sometimes wondered if he was in the wrong business getting so attached to the well-being of so many students and being unable to actually help them with their non-academic, real-world problems. Perhaps he would start a charity some day.) Then, Ms. Chang stated her intention to accept him. Basil listened to her reasoning carefully. He didn’t like the idea of getting in the way of a father’s plans for their daughter, but he also did not want to step aside and force Ms. Chang into his rather absurd plans. She was far too bright and gifted to be sold as cattle. As she went on to discuss his repercussions, Basil raised his eyebrows in objection. Before her could interject however she was apologizing and he softened again.
“Please,” he said gently. “Do not apologize for being upfront. And, secondly, I am not in the least concerned about my own repetitional risk,” Basil chuckled. “I am already considered somewhat reclusive and odd simply because I prioritize academia,” Basil almost rolled his eyes at the statement. “Between the two of us,” he whispered conspiratorially. “I think some even call me an eccentric.” He chuckled again and raised his voice back to a normal volume. “It’s not the worst thing in the world, frankly.” Then, leaning back in his chair and considering the situation again, Basil studied Ida’s face.
She was so determined, and so compassionate. He couldn’t possibly share with her his misgivings about getting between her and her father. No, that would have to be something Basil dealt with when, and if, the time came. He fiddled with a quill on his desk before addressing her again. When he did, it was with some finality. “Well, it’s settled then.” Basil leaned forward in his chair and smiled at Ida. “I propose you continue to assist me with my work via post and I, in return, can offer you a small monthly to assist with lodging or whatever else you may require. In the meantime, if you are interested in the Flint Institute, I will write to Thaddeus and see what can be done about securing your position there.” He offered Ms. Chang a beaming smile. “I am quite invested in your success Ms. Chang,” he teased. “Please, let me intervene just this once.”