But Simon had already lost interest. Only his good manners kept him from walking away. "Lady Ann, when our engagement was broken, whatever connection we had ended. I suggest we avoid speaking so familiarly."
With that, he turned and walked toward a group of young men standing nearby, leaving Lady Ann staring after him, her face stiff with shock and anger.
I watched her out of the corner of my eye, a smirk tugging at my lips.
Her family had broken their word first, and now, after losing face in public, she couldn't bear it. How amusing.
Just then, a pleasant voice interrupted my thoughts.
"Miss Sheppard, your gown is simply lovely. Where did you buy it?" A lady approached me as I stepped into the pavilion, apparently unaffected by the earlier drama.
I smiled, glad to oblige. "I've just come from Goldenrose Hall. They have the most skilled seamstresses and musicians. You can order custom gowns and enjoy a performance while you wait."
Storytelling had become all the rage in London, and many noble ladies were intrigued.
Before long, more ladies gathered around, asking questions about Goldenrose Hall. I knew it wasn't me they were eager to impress, but the sister of the Duke's heir.