“He…what?” Claire stared at her father in bewilderment, her thin fingers going to her parted lips. It was enough to make her forget about the note crumpled in her hand. “Wait, why are you telling me and not Nick? I knew he looked pale. Did he already leave?” she asked quickly, franticly looking around for her husband.

“Dear, calm down. He’s waiting for you in the carriage. I think-“

“I have to go. Have the servants bring the rest of my things over this afternoon, will you? Thank you for everything, father,” she said with an apologetic smile before rushing off. He stayed close behind to make sure she made it out of out the door without getting stopped besides quick thank yous to the friends she passed. One more goodbye to him and she ran out to the solid black carriage they came in. As she stepped up and inside with help from the footman Claire realized she still had the note hidden in her fist. Hopefully she would have a chance to toss it before he noticed.

“Nicholas- Nicholas Rochford, I didn’t think I’d need to learn your middle name so soon! I need it so I can properly fuss at you,” she said as soon as she the door was shut. She wasn’t angry though…just exasperated. “You were [i]shot[/i]? What kind of evil person would shoot at you just for a little money? My lands, Nick, you could have [i]died[/i]!” she said, her voice raising in pitch as she went on. The bride tentatively reached out as she settled into her seat, afraid simply touching him would cause more pain. “Why was my father the one to inform me, that wasn’t a very pleasant way to find out. Nick, I-“ Finally she paused, pity taking the place of anxiety in her tone and expression. “I can’t believe you went through this entire day without saying a word. I’ve been so selfish without realizing it. Here I’m complaining because you haven’t spoken to me recently, and you’ve been bleeding all morning. Can I see where…? At least when we get home if not now?”

Claire eventually sat back, though every muscle in her body was still stiff with worry. “And you were still going to take me to France. That was unbelievably kind, but you do realize there’s no way we’re going.” Honestly, a part of her was a little relieved an emergency like this came up. It gave her good excuse to stay home for quite some time. It was cruel, but he wasn’t going to die, in the end this would work out fine…

That thought made her feel even guiltier. Claire let out a slow, steading breath and put a hand on his thigh. “We may not love each other but you’re not getting up until the physician says it’s all right. Please, your father can attend to the business and I’ll take care of anything else. I…why didn’t you tell me?” she asked quietly, sounding hurt. “No, don’t answer that. Don’t speak, we just need to get you home and in bed.” Despite the grim circumstances Claire grinned, giving him a suspicious look. “You did this just to get off the couch, didn’t you? Fine, you win for now…until you get better, that is.”