Damien and Zayne excused themselves from the table to allow the women to speak.
"I've heard so much about you from Eloise," Iris said, excited to finally meet Viola.
"And I have heard so much about you from Eloise. It warms my heart that, though you were caught between a rock and a hard place, you chose to side with her. You have a good heart," Viola said, curious as to how Iris had managed to avoid becoming like her mother.
"Thank you. I will always do what is right. Eloise told me that you will be staying in town for a while to aid her," Iris said.
"I must. After all that I have witnessed and heard, I cannot leave Eloise alone just yet. My husband will soon join me, so I will be able to stay for a longer period. Are you taking part in the season? I see that you are without a ring on your finger," Viola observed, her gaze lingering on Iris's hand.
