Chapter 18: Partners, Part 9

James

I mustn’t knuckle under to my own prejudices; that a woman cannot be both beautiful and intelligent.

Beautiful, intelligent and brave...

“So, what are you planning on studying at university, Charlotte?”

“Physics, Master.” She sounds a little shy, as though I might scold her for it.

Why would that be? She thinks I would disapprove?

Or somebody else has?

“Really? Why physics, Charlotte? What made that your choice?”

“There’s so much to know, Master. I want to learn it all.” She pauses, staring at the grass. “Sorry, does that sound silly or conceited?”

“No, not at all. Which university are you going to?”

She pauses, her face away from mine, swallowing her words, and I realise my error.