C81 I will make things right

**Earnest POV**

I embraced her warmly, not knowing what to tell her about us getting married. I hoped she understood that it wasn't my fault; my father wanted me to marry only Clara and no one else. I was afraid he wouldn't like her. She recoiled from my hold and gave me a weak smile.

"Darling!" Her voice was twisted with sadness.

"What's the problem, dear?" I asked