Page 34 of An offer from the Marquess (Necessary Arrangements 4)

Isabel took a deep breath of relief. She studied each person avidly, trying to remember their distinct characteristics, like their hair or facial features, and associate that with their station and name so that she wouldn’t forget.

For example, Mrs. Ainsworth was worthy to be a housekeeper, the head of the household. That and her particular attire made her easy to remember. Rose, the upstairs maid, had red hair, Chloe, the chambermaid, had a name starting with “C,” just like her position. On and on, Isabel tried to remember everyone’s name and position. It would take her a few days, but this neat little trick her mother had taught her hadn’t failed her thus far.

When Mrs. Ainsworth was done introducing the household, Isabel smiled and let everyone get back to their business.

“Thank you, Mrs. Ainsworth,” she said, trying not to sound overly relieved. “Would you please show me to my quarters?”

“Of course, my lady. Please, follow me.”

Isabel walked through the manor in silence. It was a nice, spacious manor, if sparsely furnished and barely decorated. Now the burden of turning this place into a comfortable home fell onto her shoulders.

This was something Isabel was good at. She was glad she’d have mundane tasks to occupy herself with. Otherwise, she did not know what she’d do.

They reached the bedroom, and Mrs. Ainsworth opened the door with a flourish. “Welcome, my lady.”

Isabel stepped into the spacious room and looked around. The walls were covered with extravagant wallpaper with green and golden hues. The furniture looked rich and expensive. Everything had too much grandeur for Isabel’s taste. And the room especially stood out from the bare, sparsely furnished manor.

Isabel twirled, taking in the entire room. If she had a choice, she wouldn’t pick this room to live in. But this was the marchioness’s chamber, and it would do. At least for now.

“Anything else, my lady?” Mrs. Ainsworth intruded into her thoughts.

“Yes. Can you please spare me a maid? My lady’s maid will be arriving shortly with the rest of my trunks, and I need someone to take her place in the meantime.”

“Of course, my lady.” Mrs. Ainsworth bowed out, leaving Isabel one on one with her thoughts in the rich, extravagant chamber, feeling extremely out of place.

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