Mrs. Ashby

"Lydia! Good morning. How're you today?"

Oh heavens. It was Caroline Ashby, the town gossip and notorious busybody. Still Lydia reminded herself not to judge and held up a polite wave before turning back towards the house.

"Actually, Lydia, I was hoping to speak with you. Do you have a moment?"

"Of course Caroline, however I'm indecent. You caught me fetching the milk and paper."

"Just a second then. I'm hosting a sewing circle for some of the local ladies. With Molly and Charlie graduating I figured you would appreciate a good hobby. It's tonight at 4:30, plenty of time after to hurry home and fix supper. Hope to see you there!"

And like that Caroline was off again, already dressed to impress before the morning sun even. If Charlie hadn't had such a crush on their Chelsea, Lydia would honestly want nothing to do with them.