The subsequent kind words - not part of the standard, polite dialogue - caused Juliette to offer a grateful smile. She hoped, one day, to be as easily gracious as the Countess. It was something to aspire to - the grace seemed to come to her as easily as breathing. "Yes," she said. "I did, very much. My mentor took me. It was... an unexpected learning opportunity." Had not Lord Finch insinuated lessons into the day, after all?
"I am certain such details would not be dull," she said automatically, though in truth she feared she would understand little if the Countess did indeed decide to expound on her business. It was not an area with which she was particularly familiar. "As for the... sleepover," such a strange word, "I... certainly hope I may." She had been a bit surprised at herself for agreeing, but she liked Quenten, and Morgayne. She had been dragging her feet on asking for permission, though, even going so far as to consider lying to get away.
Lately, she was doing all manner of uncharacteristic things.