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Penelope gave her an impish smile. “You should sit.”
“Yes, of course.” Vivian allowed Mr. Jameson to assist and settled between the two men. Of course, it was her sisters’ doing, they must have sneaked in and rearranged things. They lived for opportunities like this. It would be the topic of discussion after the meal.
Or perhaps, her mother had done it after all, seating was assigned by her. She’d managed to slip in two additional people without upsetting the decorum that was required.
Her mother sat at the head of the table, Vivian’s father at the foot. To his right was Duchess Torrington, on his left Clara. Mr. Yarnsby sat between Clara and Vivian, and to Vivian’s left was Mr. Jameson.
At her mother’s right, given his elevated status, was the Duke of Torrington. On her mother’s left was her new son-in-law, William, Clara’s husband. Penelope and Thomas were seated across from Vivian, between William and Duchess Torrington.
With there being five people on Vivian’s side of the table, she could scarcely move her arms without touching either of the men.
The clinking of glasses brought everyone’s attention to her father, who welcomed the visitors and motioned for the servants to serve the meal.
Once the meal was served, everyone began conversing. Vivian turned away from Mr. Yarnsby to speak to Mr. Jameson, but unfortunately, he had been pulled into a conversation with the duke and her mother.
“Is it not wonderful that Tommy could join us tonight?” Penelope exclaimed, smiling brightly at her companion. Thomas Rutherford gave her and indulgent look, seeming pleased at her attention. He didn’t seem in the least enamored, but he looked on her as if appreciating a sister.
“It seems your duties at Parliament have kept you away from us for much too long,” Vivian said. “Penelope does miss you horribly.”
Her father cleared his throat. “It is important that Tommy become acquainted with the gentlemen of good station there. Do you agree, Mr. Yarnsby?”
“I have little understanding of all the goings on at Parliament. I would imagine that anyone wishing to have a career in politics should apply themselves completely. Things seems to change constantly, depending on moods.”
Clara chuckled with delight. “I do wonder at times what drives certain decisions.”
Their father gave Clara a pointed look. “The running of our country is a serious matter.”
Vivian huffed softly. “Does lawmaking not interest you Mr. Yarnsby?”
“As it affects my businesses and my family’s estate, it has to.”
“And yet you have no confidence in the system?”
Tommy leaned forward. “If I may ask Mr. Yarnsby, have you attended any sessions to observe? You may find it enlightening.”
“I have, in fact, and plan to attend several times in the upcoming weeks. Perhaps I will seek you out?”
“If I may be of any assistance, do not hesitate.”
“Tommy is not only a wonderful friend, but quite intelligent as well,” Vivian bragged.
Her father nodded, looking to Duchess Torrington. “Tommy has been about our home since wearing short trousers. A very dear friend of the family. I must agree with Vivian; he is indeed most intelligent.”
Tommy beamed at the compliments. He was a dear.
“What of you, Miss Vivian, what takes your interests?” Yarnsby asked, his eyes locked with hers.
“Currently, I have been helping Father in his research of the resocialization of those held prisoner or captured for long periods back into society. It is most fascinating.”
“Where would one find these subjects to study? A stroll about the pier or the underbellies of London streets?”
It was hard to tell if he made jest or was serious. Vivian tore her gaze from his and turned to her father. “Father, can you explain to Mr. Yarnsby where subjects for your current study are found?”
Delighted to speak about his current subject, her father embarked on an explanation. Vivian snuck a look to her mother, who continuously scolded them about bringing the subject up.
Thankfully, she was entertained by the duke, so she’d not noticed.
A sharp kick made her look to Penelope, who motioned to Clara.
