Hayward asks and listen to her advice.” His hand lifted from her shoulder, but the familiar weight of responsibility immediately came. “And, of course, there is no need to concern yourself with the cost of such gowns, Rebecca. Choose whatever you wish and whatever is needed and have the bill sent directly.”
“Yes, Father,” Rebecca murmured, dropping her head as warmth entered her cheeks. She wished he would not speak of his wealth in such terms, not when Lady Hayward was present. It was, she considered, a little uncouth and ill-considered but, given that her father was not likely to listen to any word she had to say on the matter, Rebecca remained entirely silent.
“Capital!” the Duke boomed before bidding a quick farewell to both Rebecca and Lady Hayward and then making his way to the door. A tight band released itself slowly from Rebecca’s chest as she heard the bell tinkle above the door of the shop, signaling that her father had left. A small sigh left her lips as she looked at Lady Hayward, who was watching her with a good deal of curiosity.
“I should introduce you to my sisters at once,” Rebecca found herself saying, a little unnerved by the watchfulness in the lady’s expression. “I—”
“You are often given responsibility for your sisters, I think,” Lady Hayward said quietly. “Is that not so, Lady Rebecca?”
“It is, yes,” Rebecca agreed, choosing not to hold back the truth from Lady Hayward. “My mother passed away when my youngest sister was only a babe. Since then, I have been given much of the responsibility of raising them and guiding them, although, of course, we have had governesses and the like.” She tried to smile but found she could not, feeling as though she was unburdening her very soul for what would be the first time. “The three youngest are still at my father’s estate, and, whilst I believe my father expects me to make a match this Season, I confess that I am not at all hopeful.”
“Because you must seek out what is best for your sisters,” Lady Hayward replied, clearly understanding everything Rebecca was saying without her having to express it directly. “Well, Lady Rebecca, mayhap that might change somewhat. Perhaps there is more I can do to aid you in this so that you have the opportunity yourself to find a suitable husband.”
Rebecca’s mouth lifted into a small, sad smile. “You are very kind, Lady Hayward,” she said quietly, feeling as though she had known the lady for a good deal longer than only a few short minutes. “I will gladly welcome whatever it is you wish to offer.”
Lady Haywood laughed softly, then gestured to someone or something over Rebecca’s shoulder. “Perhaps we should start with the introduction of your sisters,” she said as Rebecca turned around to see her sister, Lady Anna, standing only a short distance away, with something in her hands. “And then we must speak to Madame Bernadotte herself, to see what she requires of you all. No doubt, there will be measurements taken before we even consider what colors would best suit.”
Rebecca felt the heavy burden of responsibility lift just a little as she turned around to lead Lady Hayward towards her sisters. This afternoon, at least, she would not be solely responsible for the gowns her sisters chose, the gowns that they would wear into society. She had Lady Hayward’s experience and understanding now, even though they were only very briefly acquainted. For whatever reason, Rebecca felt as though she had found a caring and concerned individual whose eagerness to help came from a place of true kindness, and for that, she found herself increasingly grateful.
“Anna,” she said, seeing her other sister standing a short distance away. “And Selina, might you join us for a moment?” Waiting until both had joined them, Rebecca turned to Lady Hayward. “Lady Hayward, might I present my two sisters.” She gestured to the first. “This is Lady Anna, and next to her, Lady Selina.”
Lady Hayward curtsied. “I am glad to make your acquaintance.”
“And this is Lady Hayward,” Rebecca told her sisters, who were both looking at her with a mixture of confusion and interest. “Father has returned to the townhouse and has left Lady Hayward to assist us in choosing our gowns. We will return with her once we are finished here.”
Her sisters’ eyes widened in evident surprise, but Anna was the first one to speak, excited tones pouring from her mouth as she engaged Lady Hayward