Friends?
The drawing room was filled with soft conversation as Rhea and her two companions made their way in, the air charged with excitement.
Holloway Palace was not lacking in important and powerful guests, but the peculiar nature of the Duchess' visit had the gossips of the court talking themselves hoarse.
Like a hive mind, everyone turned their heads to Rhea, all with smiles but none for any reason that could be of any good to her.
"I see an empty seat," Calida suggested, her gloved hand resting on both their backs to guide them towards the only space that was not occupied.
Rhea allowed herself to take in the tasteful decorations, if only to avoid the piercing stares as the whispered conversations started up again.
Since her arrival, all her meals had been taken in her room or in Augustus' chambers, so this would be her first official dinner in Holloway Palace.