Olivia’s smile faltered, and she exhaled a weary breath. “I should have known better than to come to Gunter’s. What was I thinking? I might as well have painted a sign and worn it around my neck.”
“Ignore them,” Theodosia encouraged.
“That is easy for you to say,” Olivia murmured, lowering her eyes. “You weren’t the one foolish enough to elope to Gretna Green only to be discarded like yesterday’s gossip.”
“True,” Theodosia acknowledged, “but you are not defined by one mistake.”
Olivia shook her head. “Not according to Society. To them, Iam the cautionary tale whispered over teacups. We should leave.”
“No,” Theodosia said firmly. “We will stay as long as you like. We will not be chased away by gossiping busybodies.”
Olivia looked up, surprised. “You do not mind being associated with me?”
“Of course I do,” Theodosia said with mock severity. “But alas, that is the solemn duty of a loyal companion.”
A smile tugged at Olivia’s lips. “You’re my first, you know. I haven’t the faintest idea what a proper companion should be.”
“Nor I,” Theodosia replied with a grin. “But I suspect enduring slander and defending your lemon ice is part of the role.”
“I daresay you’re doing admirably.”
Before Theodosia could respond, a familiar voice reached her ears.
“Miss Theodosia, what a pleasant surprise.”
She looked up—and blinked. “Mr. Pritchett?”
He offered a genial smile as he approached their table. “I had business to attend to in Town and decided to indulge in a little treat. I had no idea I’d find such pleasant company here.”
“You certainly won’t be disappointed by the lemon ice,” Theodosia said, gesturing towards Olivia. “May I present Lady Olivia?”
Mr. Pritchett bowed politely. “It is a pleasure, my lady.”
Olivia dipped her head in return. “Likewise. May I ask how you are acquainted with Miss Theodosia?”
Mr. Pritchett gave a quick glance at Theodosia before answering. “We grew up in the same village and our families have long been acquainted.”
“Then you must join us,” Olivia said, gesturing to the empty space beside Theodosia.
Trying to mask her dismay, Theodosia gave a tight smile. “Yes, do join us.”
Clearly pleased, Mr. Pritchett went to fetch a nearby chair as Theodosia leaned towards Olivia and whispered quickly, “He’s the man who offered for me.”
Olivia’s brows shot up, but she schooled her expression into polite neutrality.
“I must say,” Mr. Pritchett said as he sat down, “it’s a marvel running into you here. I had planned to seek you out during my stay.”
That was the last thing that she wanted. “I’ve been rather occupied as of late with my new position.”
“Yes,” Olivia added. “Miss Theodosia has been a most attentive companion. I truly do not know what I would do without her.”
Theodosia gave her a grateful look. “You’d be just fine, my lady.”
“Perhaps,” Olivia replied, “but why tempt fate?”
Mr. Pritchett turned his attention back to Theodosia. “Might I call upon you while I am in Town?”
“Oh—um…” Theodosia hesitated, scrambling for a polite excuse. “That would be… lovely. But I fear our schedule is quite full for the foreseeable future.”
