"My lady. Lady Hastings!" Alice called as she ran behind Ophelia.
"What is it now, Alice? Are you upset that I mentioned the gift room or that you think he is a man who has everything?" Ophelia inquired.
"Why yes, but that is not what I want to speak of now. Aren't you the slightest bit concerned about what rumours would start if Lord Hastings attends a sit-down with Miss Lowe's family? It could spark rumours that he is flaunting his mistress before you," Alice whispered.
"I could be seated beside them, and gossip would still start. I know he is going there to protect her, and quite frankly, it doesn't matter to me what they do-"
"It must!" Alice exclaimed. Her eyes widened as she realised her mistake. "I didn't mean to be so loud. You have only become close to one lady while the others are surrounding Miss Victoria today. If Lord Hastings is seen alone with her, then more gossip would go around, and you would be made a laughing stock."
