Re: Barbara and Dick
"I'm greedy. I know," he said quietly in admission to wanting all the moments, this one and hereafter.
His eyes watched her warmly, unshuttered affection. "I'm not sure what everyone else would ask, but if you insist on something concerning the future..." He knelt by her chair, her hands still fondly held in his. "Lady Barbara, may I..." He stopped to pick the words. "May I have your permission to seek permission to court you?"
After all, it wasn't just his father that he needed to discuss this with. The Captain was very protective of Barbara, though certainly no blind fool in noticing their companionship. Truthfully he'd ignored Dick's status already and given him the talk to turn his eyes aside for another years ago.
It just hadn't worked. There really wasn't another he wanted. Truly wished for.