Jacob and Audrey made their way to the riverbank, where a pair of swans glided by. “They’re quite beautiful,” he said.
222
Audrey stepped away fromLord Fletcher when he went to look at the swans with Mia. Grace was by her side in an instant.
“What’s wrong? I can tell by your face that somethinghappened,” Grace said.
“We met Lady Whitestone and Lady Nestle a few moments ago,” Audrey explained.
“I see, but why are you upset over that? Surely you knew we would run into people we know.”
“I didn’t expect to meet the most notorious gossipmongers of thetonon the first day we are out with the baron.”
“It can’t be that bad. Did you introduce Lord Fletcher and walk on?”
“I tried to, but he’s very polite and answered Lady Whitestone’s questions.”
“Oh dear. What questions?”
“About where he’s from.”
“Well, he cannot hide the fact that he’s an American. That’s nothing to be ashamed of.”
“It will be much worse when thetonfinds out he owns a newspaper business and works as a journalist.”
Grace sighed. “Oh, I see your dilemma now. Society will never accept him if he continues to work.”
“Exactly. I tried to explain it to him, but I don’t think he really understands what an issue that is. He wants to be judged on his character, and I commend him for that, but we both know that’s not how Society thinks.”
“Do you think it will end up in the scandal sheets?”
“I have no doubt that Lady Whitestone will be crowing with satisfaction that she was the first one to uncover where he hails from.”
“Audrey, you cannot fuss over this. It was bound to happen sooner or later, given his accent. Let’s not spoilsuch a pleasant day. We haven’t been to Hyde Park in years, and I’ve missed it. You know how much I love nature. Can we not just enjoy our time here?”
“Of course. You’re right. No sense worrying over things we cannot control. Let’s join Mia and Lord Fletcher.”
Grace slipped her arm inside her sister’s elbow, and the two walked over to the baron and Mia.
Audrey made sure to walk with Grace for the rest of their time at the park. She knew it was unfair to be upset with Lord Fletcher, but she was worried about what the scandal sheets would say tomorrow regarding him and if it would affect their standing in Society. It was selfish, she knew, but their good standing was the only thing they had left of their family’s legacy.
When the hackney dropped them back at Gracechurch Street, Audrey didn’t invite Lord Fletcher inside. She needed time to consider the possible ramifications and whether she could mitigate them in some way.
She sincerely hoped the scandal sheets wouldn’t be as bad as she was afraid they might.
Chapter13
Audrey awoke early the nextday. The encounter with Lady Whitestone had preyed on her mind during the night, and she’d had a nightmare that they’d all been forcibly evicted from their home. They’d been shunned and penniless, and no one had stepped forward to help them. Lord Fletcher was nowhere to be seen. It was most unsettling, and there was no sense in staying in bed trying to rest any longer. There would be no more sleep for her. She pushed back the covers, got up, and dressed for the day before making her way to the dining room. She knew Mrs. Culbert would be busy in the kitchen already, and she longed for a soothing cup of tea to quiet her nerves.
When she walked by her sisters’ bedchamber, all was quiet, so she continued on her way. It would be good to have a few moments to herself.
“Good morning, Mrs. Culbert,” she said, entering the warm and cozy kitchen.
The cook startled at her greeting and nearly droppedthe spoon into the porridge. “Oh my, Miss Parker, you nearly scared the wits out of me. You’re up early today.”
“I couldn’t sleep and would love a nice cup of tea, if it’s not too much trouble.”
“The water’s heating now. I’ll bring it to you in a moment.”
