Chapter 182: Downfall (1)
In the Castro home, Penelope sat with Julie, who was her only visitor for the day.
"I am glad the prince sent for me, or I would have nothing to do all day. I thought I would be meeting with my grandmother, but it turns out it was only for Ally," said Julie.
"Why? Is there an important matter to speak about with Ally alone?" Penelope asked.
"Not that I know, but Ally is the one who wishes to get married soon. Though she doesn’t say it, Ally is her favourite. It helps that Aunt Sally at least came from a fallen home and was the maid of a duchess. I have always known it," Julie said, no longer affected by it.
"It isn’t right. Your mother is wonderful. She has become a good businesswoman with her books. Many ladies look up to her and realise that they too can provide for themselves," Penelope said, amazed by Eleanor’s achievements.
"But my mother was born to a couple who own a brothel. That will always linger in my grandmother’s mind. I’m sure that since I don’t act as a proper lady, she blames my mother’s upbringing for it. Perhaps it is time that I change," Julie considered.
Penelope held Julie’s hand and said, "I like you as you are now. So what if marriage isn’t on your mind? You have always spoken of wanting to follow in your mother’s footsteps to make something of yourself. Don’t change for anyone."
"I don’t want to, but I want to make life easier for my mother. I know it does hurt her to learn that Sally and Ally have been invited for a sit-down. Only my brother is treated well. Why must our grandparents be this way?" Julie sighed.
"I do not know. I have not spoken to Melanie in a while. I’m sure she is angry that she was not around for the wedding. I am not ready to speak to her," Penelope said, knowing Melanie would try to argue instead of understand.