She sat among the older women who had taken up posts as chaperones for the younger girls at the ball, sipping away at her punch like she had no care in the world.
This was how it always was - she at a corner.
Friedrich had come to see her twice, pecking her before he left each time.
And his presence caused a stir among the older ladies every time.
Lady Kent was nowhere to be seen. And for that, she was grateful.
"Is that Lady Whitmore then? His betrothed?"
"Then why is she not dancing with him? She isn't even with skates."
"Perhaps she cannot dance…"
A gasp travelled through the cluster of women.
"Could it be that she is with child?" Another whispered.
"Out of wedlock? Her mother would surely die of shame if she knew."
Eve rolled her eyes.
She looked around. Lanterns had been hung everywhere, the golden hues reflecting from the frozen pond where people skated to the rhythm of the music.
