The orchestra played loudly enough that no one nearby could hear them, allowing the conversation to remain safely between mother and daughter.
Lady Sophia lowered her voice. "Penelope—"
"I understand why you did it."
Her mother looked at her, but Penelope's gaze never left Francesca. Gods help her, she wasn't confident she'd be able to remain stoic without breaking down.
Not now. Not here.
"You are the lady of this house. You have responsibilities. You have Francesca to consider. You have the family's reputation to preserve," Her voice remained remarkably calm as she stated. "And I understand that some decisions must be made even when they involve family, even when they hurt."
Lady Sophia's eyes softened. "That does not mean I did not hurt you."
Penelope swallowed. "But it means there is nothing to apologize for."
The words seemed to strike her mother more painfully than anger might have. "Nothing?"
