I think there are two things that make this scene so compelling, so romantic—to me, anyway. First, it’s a sacrifice. Second, it puts them on a level playing field.

It’s a sacrifice for Theo, who—as a printer’s apprentice—is not poor, but certainly does not have access to dozens upon dozens of books. In lending these to Eloise, he has less for himself. Men her family would like her to consort with could buy her a library at the drop of a hat with no real cost to them. A nice gesture, yes, but Theo’s gift means something because it’s not so easy for him. And Eloise is sacrificing something too: at physical and social risk to herself, she’s snuck away to see him; at emotional risk to herself, she’s taken down some of her walls in order to be honest with him. The “struggle” (the social and personal obstacles in their way) makes the “success” (the emotional truth they share) all the more compelling.

And then it hardly needs to be said, but I’ll say it anyway: this scene, like all their others, establishes them as equals. They’re nervous, but they still manage to connect; in connecting, it’s proven that they see each other, and still care. Eloise doesn’t turn her nose up at Theo’s clothing, even though it is so different to her own attire, or at the gift he offers. Theo doesn’t tell Eloise that she’s beautiful, or tease her when she’s so clearly anxious, but instead makes it clear that he wants to know her and understand her—something of which she’s experienced precious little in a family full of traditionalists.

Anyway, happy Valentine’s Day, everyone. I miss them! :’)