“I’m surprised this gossip interests you, Aunt.”
Lady Collington’s lips tipped up in what might have been a smile, but it vanished. “I do not perpetuate gossip, my dear, but reading about it is part of how we get by here in London without being bored to tears. Besides, the girl’s mother, Virginia Burkenstock, is a particular friend of mine. Was it so different in Philadelphia?”
Three years ago, people she’d thought were her friends had abandoned her at the first sign of scandal. Sophia’s father had squashed the truth, but still, rumors circulated for a season. “No. I suppose not, but I don’t like the malice behind such rumors. For all we know, there might be little truth to the story. But because her family was unable to hush it up and it made it to print, she’ll be ruined.”
“What would you suggest, Sophia?” Aunt Daphne raised one imperialistic eyebrow.
Sophia smoothed the fine white tablecloth. “You said Mrs. Burkenstock is your friend. So, you know this girl. Is she worth helping?”
The second dark grey eyebrow joined the first. “She is a lovely little thing, if not the brightest of the season. She probably was lured away for a kiss and Lady P was waiting in the wings to catch them.”
Sophia shivered with memories and her skin roiled as she rubbed them away. A stolen kiss was minor compared to her experience, but this Miss Burkenstock would suffer, and Sophia’s heart wrenched. “Would you be opposed to my helping her?”
“It is risky to associate yourself with someone whose reputation is soiled, especially since you are just arrived in town.” Daphne looked out at the street and smoothed her hair from temple to chignon. “But, I believe this little misstep might be swept under the carpet if she had friends willing to stand by her. I’ll support your desire to help, as long as Miss Burkenstock does nothing else to embarrass herself or her family.”
Sophia’s heart leaped, not only because she would be allowed to help a stranger, but more so because her stern aunt had shown a softer side. She jumped up, rounded the table, and kissed Daphne’s cheek.
“It is very uncommon, this constant show of affection, Sophia.” Daphne’s tone returned to its prior harshness.
Sophia’s cheeks warmed. “I apologize, Aunt. Would you prefer I did not kiss or hug you?”
“I did not say that.” If Daphne had feathers, they would be ruffling. She pursed her lips, which drew her cheeks in severely. “I merely noted it is uncommon.”
“Yes, Aunt.” Delight warmed the rest of her. Her great aunt was exactly as papa and mamma had always described. “May we call on Miss and Mrs. Burkenstock this morning? It would be good to show immediate support, don’t you agree?”
“Are you certain you are up to going into society today?”
“I would not want to attend a ball just yet, but I think a morning call would not be too taxing and I should have an appropriate day dress.”
“Very well. Get ready and I shall have the carriage brought round in one hour.”
Meet the author
A.S. Fenichel gave up a successful IT career in New York City to follow her husband to Texas and pursue her lifelong dream of being a professional writer. She’s never looked back. Multi-published in erotic paranormal, erotic contemporary, Regency historical romance and historical paranormal romance, A.S. will be bringing you her brand of romance for many years to come. A.S. loves to hear from her readers. Be sure to write visit her website at asfenichel.com, find her on Facebook, and follow her on Twitter.
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