Page 59 of The Duchess' Replacement

Nora’s laugh was genuine and it made Sarah’s heart swell.

Sarah looked out the window at the waning light. “The day is almost over, but I think we can fit in a short walk. Would you like to go out and get some fresh air?”

Nora put her tea on the table next to her. “I’d like that. I’ve always liked these grounds.”

Sarah clapped her hands. “Wonderful. I’m still learning my way around so it’ll be nice to have someone who is more familiar with the estate.”

Nora stood and followed Sarah out of the room and into the hallway.

“Hasn’t my brother shown you around?” Nora sounded curious and more confident than in the parlor. Sarah felt as if Nora was starting to let down her guard which delighted Sarah.

Sarah laughed. “Heavens no. Mrs. Bates has shown me the rooms but I really haven’t ventured outside of the home.”

Sarah took Nora’s arm and slipped it through hers. “But none of that matters now. I would much rather have you show me around than your brother. I have no doubt you will be an excellent tour guide.”

Nora leaned into Sarah. “I fear I’ll get us lost, I haven’t been here in quite some time. What if the grounds have changed?”

“Oh Nora,” Sarah chuckled. “You know your brother. Does he sound like a man who would go ahead and change things?”

Nora shook her head. “You’re right, I’m sure it’s all exactly the same as the last time I was here.”

Sarah led them out the door and down the pathway that led to the garden. “Well, there is one room that is different.”

Nora looked up to Sarah with interest.

“His study.” Sarah said with a fiery gleam in her eye.

Nora’s laugh erupted from her small frame, shocking Sarah. “That I find most doubtful. He wouldn’t let anyone change any room, especially not his study.”

Sarah preened. “When we get back from our walk remind me to show you his wonderfully redone pink study.”

“Pink?” Nora giggled.

“With ruffles.”

CHAPTER 16

Sarah stood up, brushing the dirt off her skirt.

“Sorry.” Nora winced. “I don’t remember this hill being as steep as it is.”

Sarah shook her head. “Don’t worry about it. A little dirt won’t hurt anyone.”

Nora reached up and pulled a small stick out of Sarah’s hair. “Yes, but this might.”

Sarah laughed. “Oh goodness, I guess I took quite a tumble, didn’t I?”

Nora’s face reddened. “Are you sure you’re all right?” Sarah could tell the girl truly did mean no harm and was embarrassed that her memory of the grounds wasn’t as good as she thought.

“Yes, I’m fine. I’ve gotten into far bigger messes with my sisters when I was your age. This is nothing a good cleaning won’t fix. I’m fine.” She raised her arms wide and waved them around. “See? No rips or tears.” Sarah twisted her body as she looked over her dress. “I don’t see any bruises on my arms and legs. I am truly all right, no need to worry.”

Nora didn’t look convinced but dipped her head nonetheless. “If you say so.”

Sarah looked at the small pond in front of them.

“Now, let’s just make sure we watch our footing, we want to make sure we don’t fall into the water.” Sarah took Nora’s hand as the two gingerly walked closer to the water.

Nora released her pent up shoulders with a small laugh. “It would fall in line with the rest of this evening.”

---