"It isn't safe for us to linger at the side of the road," Alessandra said after Kate's carriage got far away. "We should get moving."
Edgar offered his hand to help Alessandra get into the carriage. He shared the same shock as Alessandra did.
Edgar entered the carriage behind Alessandra and waited for her to speak first.
"I know that you all overheard," Alessandra said, directing her words to her nosy children. "As I promised Kate, none of us will approach her family, and no one is thinking of buying the mansion."
"We have always listened to the rule that we mustn't go near Aunt Kate and her son. Oh, should we still refer to her as Kate Kennedy rather than aunt?" Lily asked, curious what the talk would now change.
"I do not know," Alessandra said, rubbing her temple. "I think this is the closest that we would ever be. It was surprising to receive an apology from her. Though I long moved on, there is a moment of relief that came from what she said."
