Amy could have answered her sister from the information she had received from Miss Prexley, but Rebecca did so first, adding details Amy did not know.
“’Tis so. Apparently, the owners are in negotiations with La Redoute to open on different days of the week so they might not compete.”
“I cannot complain of more pleasure events,” Marianne said.
The conversation turned to books, and Marianne stopped to stare at the steep hill looming on one side of the park. Amy knew she was committing it to memory since she had not brought her sketchbook with her. Rebecca and Hannah found common ground in some of the female authors they both admired, and Amy was content to listen and watch the visitors. Sounds came from behind them, and a quick glance informed her that Mr. Lambert had arrived at Marianne’s side and was bowing to her and offering his arm. The sight made her grow tense, but she felt reticent to force herself on the party.
Hannah was telling Rebecca of their journey to Paris after they were to leave Spa, adding, “I hope to attend the literary salons there. If only I might gain an introduction.” This she spoke with wide eyes and a breathless smile. It was a close glimpse into hersister’s heart, for Hannah was usually reserved when it came to showing her feelings.
“But you have an introduction,” Rebecca said, turning to her in surprise. “I have seen you speaking to Madame Necker, and she isfamedfor her literary salons in Paris. Speak to her of what you are reading and see if she does not offer to sponsor you when you go.”
“Is she? We’ve only ever spoken of Spa’s interests.” Hannah’s astonishment was followed by a look of calculation. “I will surely do so, then.”
“I am sure it will serve.” Rebecca sighed. “I am to go to Paris as well, but unlike you, I do not wish for it. I would like to stay here with my father.”
“Why can you not?” Amy asked. An oncoming breeze lifted the curls underneath her calash, bringing with it a scent of roses from the bushes planted on the side of the path.
“My mother desires to have me at her side. She would like to find me a husband who will advance her social position, but she and I will not agree on that subject.” Rebecca shook her head. “Let us speak of other things. Nothing is more likely to plummet my mood than my mother’s hopes for matrimony.”
“I am sorry,” Amy murmured. She could hear snatches of her father’s conversation with Mr. MacFirbis while Marianne walked beside Mr. Lambert at a distance that was now out of earshot. She was about to announce her intention to join Marianne when Hannah glanced behind her.
“I will walk with Papa. I fear Mr. MacFirbis wishes to be elsewhere but cannot leave him to walk alone.”
“Tell Marianne to join you,” Amy called out, for she could not abandon Rebecca either. Besides, she did not want to be the only one looking out for her youngest sister. Marianne might end up resenting her. Hannah nodded and left.
Amy brought her gaze forward again, and her heart stopped at the sudden appearance of James at some distance to her left.It was one of the rare times she saw him in the afternoon, and he was walking with Miss Prexley. It was natural he should do so, but she could not help but feel pain at the sight. It was as well that they would leave Spa before his marriage took place.
James caught her regard and acknowledged her with a slight nod as Miss Prexley chatted away at his side. Amy swallowed and nodded in return just as Miss Prexley turned her head. Amy’s nod was more discreet than a curtsy, but it seemed from Miss Prexley’s look that she had missed nothing.
“That is the princess approaching, whom we must address as Madame Michalkoff in public,” Rebecca said in a low voice, pulling Amy’s attention back to the sight of the Princess Orlova walking in their direction. “And with her is Mademoiselle Kerensky, who traveled in her entourage although they stay in different hotels. My mother has gained an introduction and is trying to cultivate the friendship.”
“You don’t seem pleased by the prospect,” Amy said, glancing at her.
“It is nothing against the princess, I assure you.”
The Princess Orlova would soon cross their path, and their steps slowed. They pulled to the side and waited until the princess drew near before dropping into deep curtsies.
The skirt of the princess’s dark green gown peeped out from under her hooded cloak. It was not cut of a recent fashion but was less remarkable than the peasant outfit she chose to wear for drinking the waters in the early mornings.
“Miss Bainesworth, I wish you will present me to your friend.”
Even though the princess had acknowledged Amy, it surprised her that she should request a formal introduction.
“This is Miss Amy Bridwell, ma’am.” Rebecca stepped back to allow the princess to address her if she wished.
Amy dropped her gaze, fearing to act with impertinence. Their governess had been rather vague on the protocol one shouldadopt in these circumstances, as their chances of mixing with royalty had never been all that high.
“Miss Bridwell,” the princess said.
“Madame.” Amy dropped into another deep curtsy. It seemed like the right thing to do, and she wondered why in the world the princess would pay attention to her. She was no one of consequence.
“I invite you and Miss Bainesworth for tea in my rooms,” she said, her accent heavy. “Tuesday, two o’clock in the afternoon, if you are free.”
“I am free, ma’am.” Amy’s nerves made her voice barely audible. “I would be honored to come.”
The princess nodded and, after receiving Rebecca’s acceptance, continued on with her friend. Hannah and Marianne must have witnessed the distinction, for they hurried to her side. Amy, still amazed by the attention, looked to see if her father had noticed, but he was now engaging Mr. Lambert in conversation.
“What did she say to you?” Hannah asked.
