he smiled back at him. "Then it is to your credit alone that you turned out so well. But still, I can't imagine it was easy." She turned as he moved to the steps and grinned. "My grandmother was like that as well. It was a wonder my father turned out sane I have often thought," she said, laughing softly.
Constance moved to his side and carefully sat beside him, tucking her gown around her with practiced ease. She was glad for the almost darkness so he didn't see her blush a little. "You flatter me Harry, but I do thank you. I'd do anything for those girls, no matter what. And you, you take good care of your boys too you know. I know it can't be easy." She smiled, tucking a stray lock of hair back behind her ear. "What a pair the two of us make," she said laughing softly, and looked up to the sky for a moment. "I had that when I was young; I always dreamed of being free to be myself, proper or not."
She realised the error of her words. "Oh Harry! Present company was not included in that. Cor, I do have a way of quite thoroughly making myself sound the fool. I am sorry. And I'm sorry for Nell too. He's very lucky he has you to take care of him. and the Theatre. I don't think he'll end up like that at all."