Poppy couldn’t help the tinkly little laugh that escaped her as Ms. Mountbatton ever so elegantly acknowledged the strange way they’d been introduced. She too could agree that it wasn’t perhaps the most traditional way to meet, even if it was rather exciting.

“It is a bit awkward,” the girl conceded delicately, taking her seat as a maid bustled about with tea and pastries. “I am however grateful for your amusement.” She offered the lady a chagrined smile. “He does not yet know, but I don’t have any qualms about my actions what-ever.” The admission was bold, even for Poppy. She did have plenty of qualms that Atticus would react poorly, especially at the beginning, but with his being a gentleman she knew any introductions she decided to make on his behalf would be honored. He could be as surly and ungrateful as he liked; she still knew she was doing only what was best, what any decent relation, might do to ensure his happiness.

As the maid stepped away leaving behind only the most wonderful assortment of treats and a fascinating tea she was sure Ida had shown her once before, Poppy felt herself settle a bit. She had been nervous for this first meeting, but Ms. Mountbatton seemed utterly charming - at least so far. She dared to broach a topic of much interest. “I hope you don’t think me too forward,” Poppy said then. “But do you travel often?”

---