If he had the chance to meet her once, Charles considered, her "cousin" would undoubtedly expand his connections and might even secure a powerful supporter for his marriage to Anne.
As for whether it would offend the other party, that was not in Charles's consideration. Decent people do not abandon their tasks just because they might fail—they do not hold back, do nothing, but prepare thoroughly and then bravely face the consequences of failure.
Anne nodded vigorously and said, "In a few days, when my cousin returns to Strasbourg, I'll arrange for you to join him for afternoon tea."
Charles handed over a cup of brewed coffee and said, "Miss Anne, you're truly my lucky star!"
Blushing slightly, Anne accepted the coffee and sipped it with ladylike grace.
Charles invited Anne to the third-floor terrace to enjoy the view of the Lucavaro River, and Anne happily agreed. They spent an afternoon together on the terrace.
