[i]"If you'd like me to be entirely honest, Major Bradford, I spend the evenings trying to avoid my Mother."[/i] 

Tilly sat down on the couch, being sure to straighten her skirt as she did so.

[I] "I enjoy cross stitch.." [/i] And after a sip of tea, she continued. [I]"But unfortunately, I am terrible at it.."[/i]

Perhaps one of the most refreshing traits that Matilda had, was her honesty. The young woman could laugh at herself and admit her faults. But that had caused her much confusion over the years. You are told to be truthful, yet her Mother always chastised her for it. The anguished comments about her personality did at times make her doubt herself. Anna could be right. Maybe she was an impossible person, that would no doubt be resigned to spinsterhood and cat ownership. A hopeless cause.. 

Or, perhaps she didn't care. 

[i]"And I would not send you away, I enjoy your company.."[/i]

And why wouldn't she? He was handsome, amusing - and a laundry list of other things too. Was she swooning? Absolutely not. A bit. A lot, actually, but she kept it underwraps. 

[i]"I only ever entertain Officers on a Friday evening."[/i] She teased in good humour. [i]"But they dont all get tea and scones, consider yourself lucky.."[/i] A pretty smile crossed her features as she set her teacup down on the table. [i]"Thank you for escorting me home." [/i]