"Ah, Ruth there you are. I was worried you wouldn't come."

Edward smiled at her gently as she entered and took a seat. He wasn't quite sure what to say so he fussed with the mug on the tea tray for several long moments. Getting his cup just right before he was forced to stand and settle down in his chair.

"So, I'll admit. Your confession was rather unexpected. I had not given any thought to the potential of romance with anyone, I'll be honest I am not sure if I am emotionally ready for such a thing. Even if I was, I am unsure if I would feel that way about you. You are a lovely young woman, I find your company agreeable, and I do adore young Jacob so I suppose it isn't outside the realm of possibility. But it really is impossible for me to say. With that in mind, if you would rather take on work elsewhere I am sure we can arrange something for you to make sure you and your son are taken care of."

In all honesty, he didn't want to see Ruth leave but it would be selfish of him to insist she stay, not when he wasn't sure he could reciprocate her feelings and he wasn't sure if she would willing to simply let them go. He felt quite out of sorts and for the first time in a long time, he wasn't feeling melancholy. Rather he was quite worried about his present situation and how it might turn out.