***
Later that day, Elizabeth was in her writing room when a knock sounded at the door.
“Miss Lucas, miss,” said Mr. Hill.
“Charlotte. How glad I am to see you. Pray come in.” Elizabeth rose and crossed the room. “How are you? Sit here.” She guided her toward the small sofa near the fire.
Charlotte’s face was bright with happiness. “Oh Elizabeth, I have news. I wished you to be among the first to hear it.”
Elizabeth took her hand. “You must tell me immediately.”
“I am engaged to be married.”
Elizabeth drew her into a warm embrace. “I am so happy for you. And am I to suppose this is Colonel Foster?”
Charlotte laughed. “Yes, I ought to have said so at once. It is Colonel Foster.”
“Well then, you must tell me everything. Was he romantic?”
Charlotte coloured. “He was very kind.”
“Kind?” Elizabeth repeated, drawing back to look at her. “That cannot be all.”
She laughed again, though her blush deepened. “He was… very attentive.”
Elizabeth leaned closer, lowering her voice with playful curiosity. “And did he kiss you?”
Charlotte turned quite red. “Elizabeth.”
“That is not a denial.”
After a moment, she gave a small nod. “Yes.”
Elizabeth clasped her hands with delight. “And did you like it?”
Charlotte covered her face briefly, laughing. “You are determined to know everything.”
“I am your friend. It is my duty.”
Charlotte lowered her hands, still smiling. “Yes, I did.”
“I am entirely satisfied,” Elizabeth said, smiling. “Now tell me, when is the wedding to be?”
“Mama has already begun planning the breakfast, and Papa declares that half the town will wish to attend. The banns will be called this Sunday.”
“That is very soon.”
“It is,” Charlotte said, her expression softening. “Colonel Foster must remain with the militia for the present, though he has a small estate south of Derby.”
Elizabeth squeezed her hand. “I am very happy for you, Charlotte.”
Charlotte returned the pressure warmly. “I hoped you would stand up with me.”
“With the greatest pleasure. I would not miss it for anything.”
***
Elizabeth had the gig brought round. Millie climbed up beside her as Elizabeth gathered the reins. The sun sat lower in the sky.
