Charlotte’s room was staged with false fragility.
The curtains were drawn just enough to suggest weakness without sacrificing light. Pillows were arranged like evidence. Charlotte reclined against them in a lace-trimmed wrapper, her hair artfully loosened, a glass of barley water untouched at her side.
“Oh,” Charlotte said faintly, as Eleanor entered. “Youtook your time.”
“I was asked to come,” Eleanor replied evenly. “I was not told I must run.”
Charlotte sighed, as if the effort cost her dearly. “I am unwell.”
“So I have heard.”
Charlotte gestured weakly. “The fire is too low. Fix it, Eleanor.”
Eleanor crossed the room and adjusted the grate, soot smudging her fingers.
“Careful,” Charlotte added. “You are dropping ash.”
Eleanor bit back a response and wiped her hands on her apron before continuing the task.
“And the flowers,” Charlotte continued. “They smell too strongly. Replace them.”
Eleanor lifted the vase, carried it out, and returned with a milder arrangement.
Charlotte watched the entire time.
“My shawl,” she said next. “No, not that one. The blue. Theotherblue. Check the wardrobe.”
Eleanor retrieved it wordlessly.
Charlotte frowned. “You have folded it incorrectly.”
Eleanor unfolded and refolded it, slower this time.
“My tea is cold, Eleanor.”
Eleanor rested the shawl on the arm of the sofa Charlotte was lounging on, and then went to repour the tea.
“You did not warm the cup.”
Eleanor warmed the cup by the hearth before handing it back to her gently.
Charlotte smiled, faint and satisfied. “You see? I require you for these such tasks, Eleanor. What would I do without you?”
Eleanor straightened. “I’m happy to help, Charlotte. Was there anything else?”
Charlotte considered. “My hairpin is missing.”
She searched for the next hour. It was beneath the pillow.
Charlotte’s eyes gleamed. “How careless of you.”
Eleanor’s jaw tightened.
“Do not scowl,” Charlotte admonished. “You always look so…commonwhen you do.”
Eleanor forced her expression smooth.
Charlotte shifted, wincing theatrically. “I should ring for Father. He will want to know how attentive you have been.”
