Page 65 of The Gentlewoman Companion

“I am not certain I am available. If I can, I will be there,” Louisa said, willing to show compassion, but the social prestige that came with associating with her did not feel so vital as it once had.

The carriage pulled up, and Lord Halverton handed Lady Halverton and Louisa into the carriage. Once they were on their way, he said, “Congratulations. I believe they will be discussing you for some time.”

“The question is, for what? I am not sure what Miss Trelawney told her friends, but I can guess,” Louisa said.

“What is this?” Lady Halverton asked.

Lord Halverton explained that Miss Trelawney had told her friends about Louisa’s fleeing on account of an arranged marriage. “I made her understand her rumormongering was ill-advised.”

“How did she know?” asked Lady Halverton.

Louisa twisted a ribbon on her gown. “I told her. She questioned me, and I didn’t know what to say. You did not think my behavior so scandalous.”

“I am not a Trelawney.” Lady Halverton sniffed. “You did well, James. I hope that makes an end of it, but let’s not mention that to anyone else, dear. Not until you are certain they are a true friend who will not betray your confidence.”

Would that she could guarantee everyone’s silence.

“But let us focus on your triumph! You were so bold this evening,” Lady Halverton said.

“And articulate. Well done, Miss Thorpe.”

Louisa swelled under her friends’ praise. “If anyone deserves credit, it is Lady Halverton. Left to my own devices, I certainly would not be forming opinions about the relative merits of men and women.”

Lady Halverton tsked. “It was not I who noticed that philosophers, while arguing for equality, still tend to value one gender over the other.”

A rush of satisfaction filled her. Perhaps with a bit more practice, she could truly stand on her own before society. Louisa realized that was what she longed for—not to be under Halverton’s protection, but to be respected for her own merits and contributions.

Awash with contentment, Louisa wished time would freeze, that she could forever retain the glorious sensation of having shared this moment with these two people whom she admired and loved so dearly.