“I shall.” The words bolstered her courage somewhat. Then it occurred to her that she might soften Stephen up, were she to bring him the pairs of shoes and boots she’d ordered. After instructing the footman to bring them, she boarded the carriage.

Her journey through the streets was very different from the last time. Nigel’s open carriage, painted black with gold trim, made her quite conspicuous. The din of horses, carriages and merchants enveloped her in a swirling haze of motion. She smelled the acrid city air and the familiar odor of horses.

While they traveled down Oxford Street, Emily gripped the edges of her cloak. Though she wore a perfectly respectable morning gown with a rose overskirt and cream underdress, she couldn’t help but think of Lady Thistlewaite’s criticism. Despite Nigel’s instruction, it was hard to push past her hurt feelings.

Before long, the landau approached Rothburne House. Emily hadn’t intended to call upon Stephen’s parents, but as the carriage passed by, she saw Lady Rothburne leaving the house.

“Stop the carriage,” she ordered the driver.

This is not a good idea, her common sense chided. Stephen’s mother will want nothing to do with you.

But she had to face Lady Rothburne, soon enough. It might not be that bad if she remembered her manners.

Behave like a countess, she coaxed her wayward courage.

“My lady?” the footman asked, waiting for her to make a decision.

Emily took his hand and disembarked from the carriage. Forcing a bright smile, she greeted Stephen’s mother. “Good day, Lady Rothburne.”

The marchioness pretended as if she hadn’t heard her. She walked past Emily without speaking, giving her the cut direct. Unwilling to be ignored, Emily stopped her. “Lady Rothburne, I—”

Lady Rothburne’s face grew weary. “Do not try to see my son. My husband has forbidden you to set foot in our house, and it is better if you leave.”

“Stephen is here?” She’d expected him to be at his town house residence.

The marchioness accepted help from a footman in boarding her own carriage. “Yes, he’s here.” She smoothed her skirts and offered a sympathetic look. “Let him go, Emily. It is best for all of us. Stephen should never have married you, even if you were friends long ago.”

“I am the daughter of a baron,” Emily said firmly. “Not the offspring of a chimney sweep.”

“You know nothing of our lives. You’ll never understand.”

“You are right. I don’t understand why you try to manipulate Stephen this way. He made his choice.”