“It does. And in that vein, I brought you a special gift.” She picked up a white lace parasol from the floor beside her and handed it to Katie. “This is not an ordinary umbrella. It is one that I had specially made after speaking with your mother. So, it’s not being given without her approval.”
Katie looked questioningly at the parasol and picked it up.
“When you push up on the underside, it opens into a parasol. But when it’s closed and you press the little button, the handle withdraws from the silo. It is a foil.”
Katie gaped. “Really?” She stood, pressed the button, and pulled out the foil.
“We expect,” drolled the duchess, “that you will continue to pursue your notion of gaining fencing lessons.”
“I heard you, daughter. I want you to heal from that horrible experience. If you have interest in fencing—as long as you pursue it safely—you have my blessing.” Her mother gave a slight shudder. “But please, be careful.”
To Katie’s astonishment, the duchess stepped up, and with her cane, pressed a button. She tugged on the end and withdrew a foil. “My father gifted me with this when I was younger. While I have never had to resort to using it, it has comforted me to know I have it.”
“You know how to fence?” Katie gaped. “I shall never look at your cane the same way again!”
The dowager chuckled. “Yes. Although, it is not something I think I could do today, as I have not practiced in many years. But I could probably perform a few moves in my defense. I suppose that astonishes you.”
“It does,” Katie and her mother said together.
“In all the years I have known you, you have never shown me that. No wonder you understood Katie’s need to learn self-defense so readily.”
“Indeed, I do.” She inserted the foil back into the cane. “I won’t bore you with an old woman’s details.” She looked at her friend. “I promise to watch over Katie, and I assure you both—I can keep up with her.” The older woman rubbed her hands in glee. “I’ve never had a daughter, so I hope you will indulge an old woman in some things I’ve never been able to do—like picking out a ball gown or two. If not that, perhaps fripperies here and there.”
Katie smiled, though her eyes were misted with unshed tears. “This is such a thoughtful gift. And to know Mama approves makes it that much more special. Thank you, Duchess. And thank you, Mama.”
The duchess chuckled. “I am glad you like it. Now then. I have a few ideas about the lessons if you will allow me to guide you.”
Her mother’s brow raised. “Are you sure you want to take this on? I had hoped Thomas would find time later.”
“My dear Marianna. The apple never falls far from the tree. Your beautiful daughter is much like you. And once you get a bee in your bonnet, you must take care of it. So, I expect Katie will be much the same. And I know who can help.”
Chapter Five
The Next Day
“This is the first time I’ve not been with my mother during a London Season,” Paula said. “Too bad Lucy couldn’t stay. It would have been like we were back at Lady Brinkley’s Finishing School.”
“Yes, but you know how Lucy is with her animals,” Katie said. When Lucy’s grandmother had written to say two of her dogs were about to give birth, Lucy had been beside herself with both excitement and distress. She and her mother had left immediately for the family’s country estate.
Katie couldn’t blame her, after Lucy’s horrible debut two years ago, the poor dear had been the subject of much gossip and ridicule among the ton. Katie admired her friend’s buoyant spirit but also understood Lucy’s reticence about Society. Lucy was a lovely and giving young lady with so much love to give that it would be a shame if she did not marry and have children. Yes, she had her animals, but Katie suspected that deep down, Lucy also wanted to fall in love.
Wasn’t that what they all wanted—to love and be loved in return?
Perhaps reclaiming my life also means making room in my heart for love.
Sebastian’s handsome face flashed through her mind…
“We will have a wonderful time together, ladies,” the dowager said, tugging Katie away from her thoughts. “What say you to a shopping excursion tomorrow? That new shop on Bond Street carries the most exquisite gloves.”
Katie looked at Paula and back at the dowager. “We’d love to go!” she said enthusiastically. A shiny black carriage pulled in front of the townhouse, drawing Katie’s attention. Paula squealed and rushed to the parlor window. “He’s here!” she announced over her shoulder.
“He’s here? Katie squeaked, placing a quelling hand on her stomach, hoping to calm the fluttering butterflies.
“That’s what I just said,” Paula said with a giggle.
“Calm yourself, my dear,” the duchess said, gently touching her hand. “You don’t want to appear too eager. Would you mind if I stayed for a moment and asked a question of the young man?” the duchess said with a wink.
“What do you plan to ask him?” Paula asked.
