Thankfully, it was not she who had to be the voice of reason all the time. Lady Wimplestow was more than happy to do so.
“Now we are to go shopping, so let’s hear no more about earls, if you please.”
The pretty village of Stonleigh had tall trees guiding them into the main street, and a river bordering its left side. Milly thought it would be a lovely place to explore on a warm summer’s day. However, today was not that day.
“Spindle, of course, has superior shops, but for dresses, there is none better than Mrs. Pike,” Lady Wimplestow said as the carriage stopped.
The ladies stepped down to a cold wind that had Milly hurrying behind Lady Wimplestow and Apple-blossom into the dressmaker’s.
Milly explained that she wanted something with fewer frills and in light colors for the ball. Mrs. Pike, the dressmaker, had a sharp eye, and assured Milly she had read every copy ofLa Belle Assemblée, and knew what was what in fashion. Her words soon proved to be accurate, as she fitted Apple-blossom and then Lady Wimplestow for their new dresses.
“But surely just a few frills, Milly?”
“One on the hem, but no ruffles around the neck, Apple-blossom.” Milly stood firm against the pleading look in the girl’s eyes. Ruffles made her already substantial bust look bigger.
She managed to get her way with the dress for the ball, but yielded on two day dresses to allow a small ruffle on the neck and some bows sewn into the bodice.
“Good morning, Lady English, Miss English.”
Milly turned to see who Apple-blossom was talking to, and found a pretty young lady, accompanied by an elder woman, whom she recognized. Her heart gave a painful kick in her chest as Lady English glanced her way. Retreating, Milly moved to the rear and looked into a cabinet filled with accessories, as she listened to the conversation. She had met Lady English several times during her time in society. The woman was nasty and a vicious gossip. Many a young girl had been abused by her caustic tongue. She had not insulted Milly, as she was a Marquess’s daughter, and therefore “worthy,” especially after her engagement was announced.
“I declare, Miss Wimplestow, that dress is... ah, well it’s most unusual.”
Milly could hear the disdain in Lady English’s voice, and hated that she could do nothing about it. Looking at Apple-blossom, she watched her shoulders hunch as she inched closer to her mother.
Her dress was ill-suited to her coloring, but that did not call for insult from anyone.
“There is nothing wrong with my daughter’s dress, Lady English, and I will thank you to keep a civil tongue in your head.”
The sharp intake of breath made Milly smile. She cheered silently for Lady Wimplestow.
“Well, I am sure if you do not want to take guidance form someone who walks in society, then I shall not be obliged to offer it again. But be it on your own head if your season is a failure, Miss Wimplestow.”
Lady English then sailed from the shop with her head high, her daughter falling in behind.
Milly moved back to her charge.
“Now, Apple-blossom, you’ll not worry about that woman. People like her have no friends, and are unhappy, so they feel they must attack others.”
“But why, Mama? I am no threat to her daughter. Indeed, Miss English is so pretty, whereas I know I am not.”
“Oh, but you are,” Milly rushed to add. “In so many more ways than just your face, Apple-blossom.”
“Really?”
“Really.” Milly took the girl’s hand. “You are intelligent, funny, and wonderful to converse with. You ride better than any woman I have seen, and you are pretty.”
Apple-blossom sniffed, so her mother handed her a handkerchief. It was gray and the lace torn.
“Those are lovely words, Milly, thank you.”
“And the truth,” she added, patting the girl’s hand. “Pay no heed to silly fools like Lady English and her daughter, they are just jealous and petty-minded.”
“Thank you, my dear.” Milly felt the arm of Lady Wimplestow around her shoulders. She was then squeezed firmly. “I’m glad we found you, Milly.”
“As am I,” Milly added truthfully.
They left the shop a short while later, with Apple-blossom’s spirits restored.
“Now, Milly, you have an hour or two to yourself, while Apple-blossom and I visit with my dear friend Mrs. Yield. We shall meet you at the carriage later.”
“Oh, but I—”
Before she could add anything, the Wimplestow ladies had struck out along the street, leaving Milly standing on her own in the cold. What was she supposed to do with her hour or two? The Cock and Bull inn caught her eye. Perhaps she could find a quiet corner out of the cold and have a nice, quiet cup of tea. The idea appealed greatly. She enjoyed the Wimplestow family, but they could in no way be termed quiet.
Stepping back as a carriage came thundering through, Milly looked at the driver. His eyes were trained on the road, so he did not see her, but she turned quickly and gave him her back.
Dear Lord, had he found her?
Running to the end of the street, she watched the carriage leave Stonleigh on the road to London. Was it possible he was just passing through? Had he been inside? Was she still being hunted?
