"It seems inconceivable that he is gone. I had our entire lives planned. I thought I knew exactly what the future held, and now... It was only a headache. How could a headache take my husband away? For days, all I could think was how it is not fair. John was a good man. He deserved a better fate, a longer life. But that is not how I wish to remember him. It is quite something to spend your entire life feeling like you are somehow out of place. And then to meet someone who understands you before you even say a word. Someone whose singular qualities match your own. Whose kindness makes you feel warm. Who can read your mind from across a whole room. John was more than my husband. He was my truest friend. And I may ache at present, but… The good John brought into my life, that bond, that understanding, love, far outweighs any pain I feel right now. I would not change it. For anything." — Francesca Stirling
"He adored your Francesca. I will never forget when he came home the night they met. Stars in his eyes." — Janet Stirling to Violet Bridgerton
