“Lord Easton, a fine day for a stroll, don’t you think?”
Easton looked up, saw who’d greeted him, and inwardly groaned.
When the two women reached them, Lady Whitestone gave Mia an appraising look. “Miss Parker, good day.”
Fletcher and her sister were a few steps behind and soon caught up.
Lady Whitestone wasted no time in addressing Audrey. “Lady Fletcher, are you looking forward to the wedding tomorrow?”
Audrey, ever the gracious lady, said, “We are indeed.”
“I saw the notice in the paper of your betrothal, Lord Easton,” Lady Nestle said. “I wish you happy.”
Easton merely nodded.
“My invitation must have been waylaid,” Lady Whitestone said, trying to steer the conversation back to her.
Mia had had enough of the two notorious gossipmongers. “It has not, my lady. The wedding is a private affair with an exclusive guest list.”
Lady Whitestone visibly bristled at Mia’s response, but before she could return a biting retort, Lady Wright and Lady Victoria strolled up to the group.
“Good day, Lady Wright, Lady Victoria,” Mia said. “I’m looking forward to seeing you tomorrow at the wedding.”
Lady Wright looked between Mia and Lady Whitestone and clearly guessed what had transpired before they arrived. “Yes. We’re delighted to be included in such a prestigious event.”
Lady Whitestone harrumphed. There was nothing more she could say, so she and Lady Nestle walked on.
“That was well done, Mia,” Easton whispered in her ear.
When the women were out of earshot, Lady Wright said, “I trust I missed some disparaging remark from those two.”
“I cannot abide those women,” Audrey said. “Always seeking to either humiliate someone or cause trouble. Lady Whitestone was hinting after an invitation.”
“Oh my, her audacity knows no bounds,” Lady Wright said before turning to Mia. “I’m glad you’re standing up for yourself, Miss Parker. Otherwise, those two will never stop harassing you.”
“Let’s not waste such a lovely day talking about them,” Mia said. “Would you care to stroll with us?”
“We’d be delighted.”
Mia let go of Easton’s arm. “My darling, do you mind if I walk with Lady Victoria for a moment or two?”
“Not at all,” he said, holding out his arm for Lady Wright.
The two young women walked a few steps ahead of the group.
“You’re so brave,” Lady Victoria whispered to Mia. “I would never have the courage to say anything to Lady Whitestone. She scares me.”
“Lady Whitestone does that on purpose, saying the most outrageous things to set you off guard. The only way to deal with someone like that is to confront them. At least, that’s what I think.”
“I shall try to remember that next time I’m confronted by them. So, are you excited about tomorrow?”
“Oh, yes. I can hardly wait to marry the man I adore. By the way, Lord Chandler will stand as Easton’s witness.”
That brought a smile to her friend’s face. “How delightful,” Lady Victoria said.
They strolled through the park for another hour before everyone said their goodbyes.
“We’ll see you tomorrow,” Lady Wright said as she and Lady Victoria departed.