Penelope's gaze followed every movement, standing perfectly still, her posture betraying none of the quiet anticipation stirring beneath her composed exterior. Around the instrument, conversations gradually softened, though not quite the one to acknowledge her presence.
Moments later, Lady Norwood herself appeared delighted by the suggestion of entertainment. "Miss Anderson plays?" the Duchess questioned brightly.
Francesca nearly retreated at once beneath the attention, but Penelope gave her the slightest reassuring nod.
"Yes, Your Grace," Francesca answered carefully.
"Wonderful. We have suffered enough mediocre performances this season already."
The surrounding ladies laughed softly. Francesca moved toward the pianoforte almost cautiously while conversations throughout the music room continued absentmindedly.
