New relationships (4)

"Alessandra, she's waiting for you to shake her hand," Hazel's voice snapped Alessandra out of her thoughts. 

"It's nice to meet you, Linda," Alessandra shook Linda's hand. She wondered who exactly Linda was to be walking around in the palace. 

As if reading Alessandra's mind, Hazel said, "Linda is a childhood friend of mine and Tobias has granted her access to the palace to keep me company sometimes.  Unfortunately, she wasn't able to attend the ball. I've invited the duchess here to get to know her. The duke is somewhere entertaining my husband."

"You must be glad to have Tobias busy," said Linda.

"Certainly. Do you want to stay a bit longer, Linda? You should have some of the food I've prepared for Alessandra and me before you go. I don't think it's right to let you go by so quickly after traveling to meet me. If that's alright with you, Alessandra?" Hazel asked as she wanted to be sure Alessandra would be comfortable first and foremost.