“She offered not to participate in it.” As voices rose, Phoebe lifted a hand to halt them. “She also offered to never speak of anything said during our meetings to her sister.”
“I don’t understand,” Harriet said. “Won’t that cause a rift between them?”
“It seems that Lady Jane has been quite the tyrant, and Lady Lucinda has had enough. This is one of the ways she’s separating herself from her. But she confessed that she would like friends who understand and would offer support and can think of none better than the members of our league to do so.” Phoebe shrugged. “I almost felt sorry for her. But I made no promises. I only said I’d bring it before the group for consideration.”
Eliza watched as the original members exchanged looks, clearly wondering what the others were thinking. Since she hadn’t been involved when the sisters had caused so many problems, she didn’t want to offer an opinion. But she was more than impressed that the ladies were considering Lady Lucinda’s request given her past behavior.
“I don’t know.” Tibby’s lips tightened. “I’m not certain we can trust her. She didn’t show any hesitation when she and her sister told my husband about our agenda before we were married. That was nearly a disaster. It’s difficult to believe she has regrets.”
“I agree,” Frances said. “The two have been unkind to several of us over the years with their catty remarks. Especially to you, Phoebe.”
“That’s true,” Phoebe admitted. “Lady Lucinda did apologize to me and wants the chance to do the same to those of you she hurt.”
“But?” Winifred lifted a brow.
“I suppose it will take time to believe she’s sincere.” Phoebe lifted a hand only to let it drop to her lap. “I confess to wondering if it’s some sort of trap.”
“That’s understandable.” Tibby nodded. “I feel the same way.”
“I suggest we think upon it,” Harriet said. “If she truly intends to change, we’ll see it in the coming weeks. We can’t be the reason she separates herself from her sister. She needs to do that of her own accord. If her actions show sincerity, we will consider her request.”
“That’s an excellent idea.” Phoebe looked at the other ladies. “Is there further discussion on the matter or are we prepared to vote on Harriet’s suggestion?”
They agreed unanimously to vote, and all agreed to table the request for the following meeting.
“Next is ourFor Better or Worsemission.” Phoebe waited a moment before asking, “Would anyone care to share?”
Eliza looked at Harriet, hoping she’d provide an update.
But it was Frances who cleared her throat. “I would like to, if that’s all right.” She glanced at Harriet with a questioning look.
Harriet nodded and reached to squeeze her friend’s arm in support.
“I’ve already apologized to Harriet, but I want to share what happened with everyone.” She heaved a sigh. “I thought I knew which gentleman held my interest, but I was wrong.”
“Oh?” Phoebe’s eyes widened with curiosity.
Frances pressed a hand to her heart. “I don’t know why I didn’t realize the truth when it was clear that I didn’t even know him.” She glanced at the group. “While I was figuring it out, I fear I missed an opportunity with therightman for me.”
“Oh dear. How troubling.” Tibby’s brown eyes were full of sympathy.
“But now that you know, you can move forward,” Phoebe said.
“I realized it too late. He’s left England to visit family in America.” Frances’ disappointment was obvious. “It’s unclear how long he’ll be gone or whether he’ll return.”
“It’s difficult to make a bold move if he’s not in the same country.” Harriet offered a sympathetic look.
“Quite. But I will remain hopeful.” Frances frowned. “My shyness overcomes me at times, especially when gentlemen are involved. I hope to improve upon that before he returns. By then, I’ll better know whether what I feel for him is true.” She glanced at the other ladies. “I’ve come to realize how important it is to listen to one’s heart instead of one’s head.”
“Excellent advice.” Phoebe nodded.
Frances held Harriet’s gaze once again. “I’m sorry that I was so involved in my own thoughts that I didn’t realize what you were going through. I’m even more sorry for the upset I caused you.”
Eliza waited with bated breath to see what Harriet would say. While she didn’t know what had happened, it was clear something significant had occurred.
“And I’m sorry that I didn’t tell you how I felt about Joseph, or rather, Viscount Garland.” A delicate blush rose in Harriet’s cheeks. “It’s just that I didn’t truly think there was a chance of him returning my regard.”
“Oh, Harriet.” Tibby leaned forward in her chair. “Will you tell us what’s happened?”
