His thoughts immediately turned to Emma, and the way she'd felt, all soft and warm against him, when he'd kissed her last. He puffed on the cigar for a few moments, speculating. He wondered if she would really be fool enough to marry that dough-faced banker. Emma was stubborn, and she probably thought Whitney could give her what she wanted-money, respectability, comfort. That willfulness of hers just might land her in the wrong bed, and Steven wasn't willing to let that happen. He
In this passage, the protagonist reflects on his feelings for Emma, recalling the intimate moment they shared during a kiss. While smoking a cigar, he contemplates Emma's choice of a suitor—the wealthy banker Whitney. Despite Emma's stubbornness and her desire for financial security and respectability, he harbors concern that her decision might lead her to an undesirable situation.
Steven worries that Emma's determination could result in her marrying the wrong person. His protective instincts kick in as he considers the implications of her relationship with Whitney, feeling that he cannot idly stand by if it means losing her to a life that lacks true happiness. This inner conflict highlights Steven's deep emotional connection to Emma and his desire to be the right choice for her.
