Tristan ignored his tea and he barely noticed the food, for he was still observing Pippa with a deep frown on his forehead. Poor thing. He was no longer angry with her for rash conduct while under his employment. Doubtlessly, the anger would come back in some degree. But for now, all he could feel was pity and a desire to ease her pain. She had been very foolish, certainly. But so many young men did exactly the same and never faced any consequences. It wasn't fair that a girl who had made a misjudgment in a moment of grief and loneliness should face such severe consequences.

"Pippa," he said, trying to get through to her. "We'll find a solution. Whether that... man" - he had been about to say a different word - "takes responsibility or not. It won't be easy, but it will be alright."