Mrs. Sedgwick met Gloriana’s eyes. “I’m so glad you came today, my dear. I’ve missed our chats. Do you suppose you might come for tea sometime this week?”

Gloriana hadn’t wanted to participate in any of the winter social events and had made herself scarce. There had been invitations, but usually she refused. This time, however, she thought she might as well accept.

“Will it just be us?”

“Of course. And bring Sally. Why don’t you come Tuesday at two? That will give us plenty of time to visit before you have to worry about JT getting home from school.”

Gloriana nodded. “I think I’d like that.”

“So, are you excited about Luke adopting Sally legally?”

Gloriana tried not to betray her surprise. Adoption? Luke had said nothing about adopting Sally. She supposed it made sense that some sort of legal arrangement needed to be made, but why hadn’t he told her?

She kept her gaze on the infant. “It will give her stability and protection.”

“True. I’m sure that’s uppermost on his mind.” Mrs. Sedgwick handed Sally back to Gloriana. “I think perhaps there is more on his mind than that, however. I’ve seen the way he looks at you, Gloriana.” She grinned. “I think the young man is in love.”

Gloriana felt her cheeks grow hot. “I . . . don’t think . . . I . . .”

“My dear, you needn’t explain. God has put the two of you together for a reason, and I think you make a handsome couple. I wouldn’t worry about the rumors or other nonsensical talk going around. You have conducted yourself quite honorably, as I see it. Just don’t let love slip away from you because of your sadness. Love might very well be God’s answer for seeing you through these difficult times.”

“Love? Should I love someone else only to lose them as well?” Gloriana asked, temporarily losing her anger that people were gossiping about her and Luke.

“Oh, my dear, it is so hard to lose someone we love.” Mrs. Sedgwick patted her hand. “But we can hardly stop loving because of it. What is life without love?”

Gloriana wasn’t sure, but it seemed it might very well be less complicated and painful. “I’m sorry, I must go. Luke probably has the carriage brought around. I’ll come and see you Tuesday.” She gave Mrs. Sedgwick a quick peck on the cheek. “Until then.”

She hurried down the aisle, making sure the baby was completely wrapped up before heading out the church doors. Several women commented and bid her greetings, but Gloriana barely had time to give them a nod. No doubt it would send their tongues wagging once again.

Oh, who cares what they say? People were always going to say something about something. Gloriana couldn’t allow it to bother her.