Her own attachment had really subsided into a mere nothing; it was not worth thinking of; – but if he, who had undoubtedly been always so much the most in love of the two, were to be returning with the same warmth of sentiment which he had taken away, it would be very distressing.
– Jane Austen
Emma, Chapter 37. Emma realizes that her affections for Frank Churchill have faded to the point of insignificance. But she is concerned that when he returns to Hartfield he may still harbor strong romantic feelings for her. It seems to gratify Emma’s vanity to believe that Frank is not only in love with her, but has always been the one more in love. A deluded Emma continues to deceive herself that the charming Frank’s flirtations add up to something deep and meaningful. Ultimately Frank’s true love is Jane Fairfax, as we will learn.