Summary

In Chapter Nine, Lilian and Leonard leave. In some ways. Frances is relieved that she doesn't have to hide her feelings for Lilian. She sets out to clean the house and is horrified to see that many chores have gone undone. Frances visits Christina and laments that Lilian is gone but swears she doesn't care. When days pass without a letter, Frances takes that as a sign.

John Arthur's fiance, Edith, visits and announces that she's getting married. Mrs. Wray tries to be positive but it's obvious she isn't happy about it. Frances predicts she will be after she has time to process the information. After Edith leaves, Frances receives a letter from Lilian that opens with “my darling.” She writes that she wishes to be as brave as Frances.

When Lilian returns, Frances says they have to take steps toward resolving the...