The women
The women had taken the children to the park... Alison and Victoria were watching over them while the other women spoke about the previous evening. The performance of the opera had been stunning and they felt the theatre company did justice to the opera.
The conversation moving to the intermission and the people that had visited their box...
"I found the Duchess of Eastbourne an open lady ... I understand why she is a friend of yours Susan." Grace reflected
"How did you find Lord Castle?" Mary asked Charlotte
"He seems to be different from when we were in York. He was able to answer our questions and he he kept his eyes on our faces. He was trying hard to impress us... but he really wanted to please Victoria. She was pleased he was able to give her a good assessment of the opera" shared Charlotte
"The Duchess commented that her son is no longer running with his usual friends. She was certainly highlighting his good attributes" Mary shared
"Hmm... interesting...we will have to wait and see if he has truly changed" spoke Charlotte thoughtfully
"How have you been Mary? Do you feel at home with us?" Grace asked
"Yes... the children are so happy and that makes me happy... but they do ask about their father and Uncle Sidney" a worried look appearing on Mary's face.
"Maybe you need to contact them so they know what your intentions are?" Charlotte suggesting... even though she knew it would cause some issues.
"Yes... I think that is wise... I have been given some good advice from the solicitor and if needed I can submit enough evidence to prove my husband is mad. I don't want to do it but at this stage I can't go back" Mary spoke while looking at her children playing
Charlotte tightening her hold on Mary's arm to comfort her.
"I do feel guilty about this as I know Sidney gave up much to save us" a worried Mary shared
"You are making your choice now... whatever you decide we are on your side" affirmed Charlotte. Mary looked at her children... knowing she had made the right decision.
"I suggest... you have your legal representative write the letter and they will handle all communication. I can see you are still not able to face them and need more time." stated Susan. Mary agreeing with her suggestion.
Their attention was taken by the arrival of Lavinia. She had been to the house and had been directed towards the park. Everyone gathering around her. She had a large personality which attracted people towards her... the children loved her and all needed a hug from their Aunt Lavinia. Like the Heywood children the Parkers called both Susan and Lavinia 'Aunt'.
"Hello, my beautiful little ones" giving a kiss on their heads and accepted a hug from each one. She patiently listened to their stories and promised to read them a book when they got back to the house. Once satisfied the children went back to play and Lavinia finally turned to the other ladies.
"I have had such a busy time organising this dinner... Lord E had approved the guest list and the food will be spectacular" she expressed with excitement
"Now, Lavinia don't make it too fancy" Charlotte warned her friend
"I have not over down it... I promise" but everyone knew it was going to be a big event. Charlotte knew Lavinia was doing it because she loved them both and wanted to make the evening special. Lavinia was in the middle of speaking about the arrangement when Mary froze.
"What is wrong" Grace asked noticing Mary's pale face.
"It is Eliza and she is coming this way!" Mary spoke and everyone could see Eliza moving determinedly towards them.
"She wants to be friend's with you Susan" Mary leaning closer to Susan
"My dear... the whole London ton does!" laughed an amused Susan as she observed Eliza straightening up her outfit. Susan purposely taking Lavinia's arm and and great ladies moved away to talk... Eliza was not getting an introduction!
Charlotte and Grace standing on either side of Mary as they watched the final approach of Eliza who was followed from behind by her sister.
"Mary, Mary... it is so good to see you... when did you come back from Sanditon?" Eliza asked but really wanted to have an excuse to speak with Lady Susan. Looking disappointed as she had seen the great lady move away.
Mary breathing out a sigh of relief... 'Eliza had no idea she had been somewhere else'.
"I have been back in London these last couple of weeks" Mary felt she was not lying
"I must have missed you the few times I visited... I have to say you are looking much better... Mary... the sea air of Sanditon must be finally agreeing with you" Eliza spoke
'Thank you , Eliza... I am feeling much better" Mary keeping her comments few and looking at her friends for help.
"It is certainly a nice day to be out this morning... commented Charlotte
"We love brining the children here so they can enjoy the fresh air... where is your son?" Grace asked politely.
"Oh... he is with the nanny... I have a number of visits and you know children can get in the way" commented Eliza... she was not really listening and kept glancing in the direction of Susan and Lavinia. Grace a patient lady could see it was not productive to continue.
"We have an afternoon event to attend so you must excuse us" Grace finishing the conversation
"Mary... I have missed attending events with you... maybe I can come with your this afternoon?" Eliza dared to ask
"No, that is not possible, Mrs Parker... the Duke and Duchess of Eastbourne are very selective" Susan finally stepping. She had been listening and wanted to put Eliza in her place.
"Good day" Susan taking Mary's arm and they walked away followed by the other ladies and children. Mary observing to Susan that Eliza had not even recognised her own nieces and nephews.
"Don't worry...your children will know they are loved by those of us who would happily be called Aunt" Susan commented. At that point Henry had rushed towards her "Aunt Susan... I think I injured my finger?"
"We will take you to cook who will look at your finger" Susan placed her arm around the little boy who walked beside her and seemed to have forgotten about his finger. Mary smiled and knew her children would be loved.
