Chapter 309
The hours of the party went well as Rose wanted without any more distractions or interruptions. Catherine had picked well since Rose enjoyed the women’s company and even Mary who didn’t frequently attend such social gatherings seemed to enjoy herself.
Along with making friends for herself, Rose wanted friends who would get along well with Mary since Rose did not have any plans of ending her friendship. Mary was to be respected as Rose was to be respected. Mary was one of her first friends so Rose would not stop meeting with her all because she didn’t fit the kind of friend a lady should have.
Rose stayed by the front door to see the women off one by one. She made plans to send gifts to Margaret and Julia for their children and then to find something to send to Emilia so she wouldn’t be left out.
"You did well again today. Planning gatherings might be your talent," Catherine complimented Rose. "Aside from the show of you kissing my son I was quite entertained. While I love the two of you there are some things I don’t want to see. Still, you must be proud of yourself."
"I am and I am grateful to you for all your advice. I wouldn’t know where to start without you and Krystle. I must find something to thank you both with. Even if you don’t need anything," Rose spoke quickly before Catherine rejected the offer.
Catherine wasn’t going to say no since it would be her first gift from Rose. ’Then, I will await what you wish to give me. You have found a maid loyal to you. I saw her standing close all while we were seated. Maybe you also have a talent for getting others to love you. I find myself surprised by how much I adore you."
"Is it not because you like that Zayne is married?" Rose asked.
Catherine chuckled. "I wanted Zayne to be married but that doesn’t mean I would be willing to accept any woman he brought home and give them my time as I do with you. I did stay around for those days because Zayne asked but I remain at your side because I like you. It was worth it for him to wait and meet you. If you keep this up, I might like you more than Zayne."
Rose didn’t think that would ever be possible and didn’t want it to happen. "You should love Zayne more."
"I would if he invited me over more or came to visit me. They are all busy these days and with Paige soon to wed, they won’t have time for me but you have welcomed me to join you in what you do. That is already a gift to me," said Catherine.
"Maybe they think they are bothering you. You should tell them that you are open to being near them. I’m sure they would visit you more often then and the princess seems to enjoy your company. You will be busy helping her to find a husband and prepare for a wedding," Rose said, knowing she might not get to see Catherine often.
"Yes, I must be with her now," Catherine agreed with Rose. "I think she might be a little jealous of how much time I have spent with you. You are new and only have Zayne so I wanted to be near. I will have to give almost all my time to Paige now."