Another young man came into view, pulling on his horse’s reins as it trotted up to the group. “Chandler, don’t ever do that again,” he said in a low growl.
Chandler chuckled. “Why Ludlow, whatever are you talking about?”
Mia looked between the two men and couldn’t decide if the newly arrived Lord Ludlow was angry or not. Both Chandler and Ludlow were handsome men, but somehow, they didn’t hold a candle to Easton. Mia moved her horse closer to him while the two men bickered.
“You know perfectly well. Abandoning me when Lady Whitestone and Lady Nestle appeared was not welcome in the least. This was supposed to be an enjoyable ride.”
Fletcher joined the conversation. “I myself was cornered by those two ladies last year on my first promenade in the park. I have to agree with Ludlow—leaving him was a bit cruel. Those ladies are quite fearsome and the worst gossipmongers I’ve ever met.”
“Well, it’s not like you were trapped for long because here you are,” Chandler said. “Now, if you could hold your tongue a moment, I’d like to make an introduction. Miss Parker, may I make known to you Lord Ludlow?”
Ludlow tipped his hat. “A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Parker. Nice to see you again, Lady Clifford.You’re looking quite well. I do hope you’re enjoying your stay in London.”
“Thank you, Lord Ludlow. It’s been quite pleasurable so far.”
“I’m pleased to meet you, Lord Ludlow,” Mia said.
Ludlow’s black stallion was stomping his hooves and turning in circles. “I do apologize, but I must move along. Jupiter isn’t quite used to the crowds in the park as of yet.”
“I’ll see you at the ball,” Chandler said. “Don’t be late.”
“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Ludlow called over his shoulder as his horse trotted away.
“How do you all know each other?” Mia asked Easton.
“We went to school together and have maintained the friendship ever since. Ludlow recently inherited his title, and this is the first Season he’s participated in since then. I dare say he had no idea how determined young ladies and their matchmaking mamas can be in trying to land a titled husband. As far as I’m aware, he has no intention of marrying this Season or anytime soon.”
“Lord Chandler, would you care to join us for the rest of our ride?” Mia asked.
“I’d be delighted. Thank you, Miss Parker.”
Lord Chandler joined their group and positioned his horse next to Mia’s. “Miss Parker, I do hope to see you at my parents’ ball on Saturday.”
Mia frowned. “My lord, I’m not sure. I do believe we’re otherwise engaged.”
“Oh? Did you not receive an invitation to the Gardner ball?”
“Yes, we did! Are they your parents? Forgive me. I had no idea.”
“Nothing to forgive. The ball is to introduce my sister, Lady Arabella, to Society.”
“How wonderful. I’m anxious to meet her. It will be good to have a friend. I’m afraid I don’t know many of the young women making their debut this year, besides one so far.”
“I would be happy to—”
A shrill voice interrupted them in the middle of their conversation. “Lord Chandler, we meet again,” two women said, trying their best to block the path forward.
“Lady Whitestone, Lady Nestle,” Chandler said with a nod.
“Lord Easton, Lord Fletcher, Miss Parker, Lady Kathryn, good day to you,” Lady Whitestone said, looking over their group.
Mia saw Easton bristle at the slight to his sister. “My sister is Lady Clifford now,” he said.
Lady Whitestone’s brows drew together, and she narrowed her gaze on Kathryn. “Pardon? Lady Clifford? You’re married?” the older woman asked, clearly unaware of her marriage.
“Good day, Lady Whitestone,” Kathryn said. “As my brother has said, it’s Lady Clifford now.”
Lady Whitestone harrumphed.