She trotted up to Kathryn and Easton. “Lord Easton, I want to thank you again for accompanying us today.”
“It’s my pleasure, Miss Parker.”
“Your horse seems restless today.”
“Perhaps a little. I wasn’t able to give him the workout he needed before it was time to head to the park.”
Lady Kathryn fell back in line with Fletcher and Midnight. “I hope you’re enjoying your London stay,” he said.
“I must say it’s been different coming back to Town as a married woman. I used to dread going totonevents, but now I feel quite relaxed about them. There’s no pressure to be perfect all the time.”
“I cannot even begin to imagine how difficult it is for young ladies on the marriage mart. So many rules to follow to make sure you don’t say or do the wrong thing and make the gossip mongers start.”
“That’s it exactly.”
“Well, I’m glad you and Sir Samuel came to London for a visit. I know my wife misses you. Have you spoken to her lately?”
Kathryn looked over at Fletcher. “Not today. Is something amiss?”
“Not exactly, although I would have thought she’d have confided in you.”
That brought a smile to Kathryn’s face, and she leaned over to whisper, “Ahh, I see she’s told you her news.”
Fletcher nodded. “This morning.”
“I’m glad she told you. She told my mother and me yesterday at nuncheon.”
“Well, her condition poses a bit of a problem.”
“It does? How so?”
“I don’t want her to become overtired during the Season. Thesetonevents can be exhausting, and my wife insists on staying in London so her sister may experience as many activities as possible. I won’t risk her health or that of the child for that.”
“I assure you, she’ll know when she’s exhausted her strength. Now that you’re aware of her condition, you can discuss any future engagements with her before you accept the invitation. That way, it’s a mutual decision.”
“I will indeed. I know that when she was pregnant with William, she was quite fatigued in the early days. If she’s equally fatigued this time, she’ll try to ignore it. You know my wife will do nothing that will upset her sister’s Season.”
“I’ll also keep an eye on her and let you know if I think she needs your intervention. Others can help escort Miss Parker to events if necessary. I know my mother would be thrilled to help with chaperoning duties.”
“Thank you, Lady Clifford. That would be very much appreciated and would ease my mind tremendously.”
There was no more time for conversation as more and more people stopped to greet them.
“Chandler,” Easton called out to a man who came into view farther down the path on a beautiful bay gelding.
Lord Chandler looked up to see who’d called to him and smiled. He steered his horse toward the group. “Easton, Fletcher, ladies,” he said, tipping his hat. “What an unexpected pleasure to run into you today.”
“Chandler, good day to you.” He turned to Mia. “Miss Parker, may I present my friend, Lord Chandler?” Easton said.
Chandler’s eyes widened as he greeted her. “Miss Parker, the pleasure is mine.”
“Good day, Lord Chandler. A beautiful day for a ride, don’t you agree?” Mia asked, staring into his gorgeous brown eyes.
Chandler nodded. “Wholeheartedly.”
“Is Ludlow with you?” Easton asked.
“Yes, although he was waylaid by a group of women promenading on this fine day,” Chandler said, looking over his shoulder. “Ahh, here he is now.”