The look on Charles' face showed that he was far from surprised by such an admission regarding the gems. He was also, sadly, less than surprised about her father-in-laws comment on her writing. Because that was just the sort of thing he expected. It meant she was being exploited even if she didn't know it, which did not sit well with Charles. It was also leaving him to question Henry's motives in marrying the girl in the first place. Perhaps he had misjudged the boy's character. Oh, that would be disappointing if it was so.
“I do not blame you,” he said in an attempt to reassure her. “I cannot imagine how any part of that would be pleasant. I promise you I mean this in only the most benign of ways, but does it happen only when you say actual words or during any auditory noise?” Charles was hoping that she could bypass the writing and the words maybe by being able to make sounds of agreement or such without formalizing words.
Taking a drink and a short pause, Charles added, “it would give you a break in conversation to still be able to contribute without relying on people to be looking at you, and not require a constant state of discomfort.”