Page 56 of The Duchess' Replacement

Sarah poked her head out from the closet. “That’s what I said. Now, come help me at once. I’m losing valuable time.”

Sarah’s hands landed on a modest blue dress that had always made her feel more mature and stately when she wore it.

She showed it Lizzie. “Do you think this will make me look like a Duchess? I want to make a good first impression.”

Lizzie lifted a slender shoulder. “Anything you wear makes you look like a Duchess, Your Grace. Simply because you are a Duchess.”

It was then Sarah noticed Lizzie’s concerned eyes and fiddling fingers.

“Lizzie? Is everything all right?” Sarah questioned.

Her maid shook her head solemnly. “Yes, Your Grace.”

Sarah felt there was more Lizzie wanted to say, but perhaps she was afraid to.

She sighed. “Lizzie, I think by now you know you can speak freely in front of me.” Sarah looked to the door. “And I’m really in a hurry so if it’s not pertinent to this particular situation I’ll ask you wait until later to discuss it with me.”

Lizzie rolled her lips as she looked to the door before pushing out a small breath. Her soft grey eyes locked in on Sarah’s.

“Lady Honora is a very sweet girl, Your Grace. I hope you find her pleasing and generous as we all have.”

Sarah rose an eyebrow. “Why wouldn’t I? Lizzie,” Sarah walked over to the bedroom door and closed it. “What is going on? What is all this secrecy regarding the Duke’s family?”

Lizzie resolutely shook her head. “I’m sorry, Your Grace. It’s not my story to tell. Perhaps you’ll find your answers this week. I heard that Lady Honora will be staying with us for a few days.”

Sarah’s eyes lit up hearing the news.

“That’s wonderful!” She looked back down at the dress in her hands. “Well, let’s get me fit for company so I can go and meet my new sister.”

She smiled warmly at Lizzie hoping to dispel any worry the maid had.

As Lizzie fastened the buttons at her back and re-pinned some of her fallen hair, Sarah couldn’t help but wonder what could cause such a reaction from Lizzie. What was it about this girl that had Charles turning cold and distant and Lizzie worried?

With her final tendril tucked securely in its pin Sarah turned to Lizzie. “Thank you for your help.” She gave Lizzie a quick hug in gratitude and opened her door.

“Your Grace,” Lizzie called out.

Sarah turned. “Yes, Lizzie,” she sighed. She really didn’t have time for this.

“Please remember, she’s just a girl, and a sweet one at that.” Lizzie’s voice was full of concern.

Sarah tilted her head in confusion.. “Of course, Lizzie. You have nothing to worry about. I’m sure our meeting will go brilliantly and we’ll get along smashingly.”

Lizzie shook her head in acknowledgement but Sarah got the feeling Lizzie wasn’t so certain.

Sarah stood outside the door to the parlor. She could hear her husband’s deep rumble of a voice. He sounded softer when he spoke to his sister. A light giggle floated through the door followed by a low chuckle.

Was Charles laughing?

Sarah pushed the door open and stepped into the room.

She found her husband embracing a young girl in one of the most beautiful displays of sibling love she had ever seen.

Her giant brute of a husband, whose one hand could cover her entire head if it wanted to, was handling this young girl with such gentle care it stole her breath.

While the two were sharing a moment, oblivious to her entrance, Sarah took the time to take in the pair in front of her.

They had similar coloring and brown hair. She couldn’t see the girls face since it was nestled against her brother’s chest, but Sarah could tell she was young, most likely not even fifteen yet.

---