Chapter 11 - Ten

May 17, 1835

Minutes turned into hours, turned into days, turned into weeks, and the Viscountess' lessons had come to an end. Caroline's etiquette had greatly improved. The day before the Viscountess was set to leave, the two decided to have dinner in the garden; well what had remained of the garden. The Viscountess had often met with the former Countess for tea at the very table they sat, nearly a decade ago. It was for that reason Caroline decided to ask about the deceased Countess as they waited for Milly to arrive with their meal.

“What was the Countess like? The two of you were close, correct?”

The Viscountess freezes up, sets down her tea cup, and is silent for a moment. She looks deep in thought but thankfully breaks the silence before things get too awkward. “Thirza was quite often misunderstood. She was highly respected in society, even before she married the former Count, but some found her demeanor cold. So she was often surrounded by scandals, as was I.” The Viscountess takes a sip of her tea. “I think that’s what made us great friends. She was the kindest soul I ever knew. When my husband brought me back with him from overseas and announced we were to be wed, Thirza was the only person who welcomed me with open arms.” She looks up at Caroline; tears fill the corner of her eyes. “I think that if Thirza was alive today, she would’ve liked you.” The Viscountess sends Caroline a bittersweet smile.

Not another word is said ‘till dinner is served.

Strangely, Milly had not brought out their meal as she was scheduled too, nor did Edmond. Instead, Iris and Elisheva served them. Caroline finds this to be unusual, as they were normally working elsewhere. “Where is Mi-” she stops mid sentence to correct herself, “where is Ms. Windsor?” Elisheva looks nervous and opens her mouth to say something, but before she has the chance, Iris speaks up. “She’s tending to other things at the moment.” Iris speaks clearly and confidently, so Caroline doesn't press any further.

Elisheva places Caroline’s plate in front of her as Iris serves the Viscountess. The meal consisted of fish, bread, berries, and cheese. Caroline was not a huge fan of seafood, but she didn’t wish to cause a fuss, so she picked around it. Iris and Elisheva head back to the kitchen, leaving Caroline and the Viscountess alone. The air feels lighter now that they’re alone, so Caroline attempts to make conversation. “Have you enjoyed your stay?”

The Viscountess looks up from her plate. “Yes, although it is quite different from the last time I was here.”

“How so?” Caroline asks.

“The estate was a lot livelier back then,” the Viscountess says, taking a bite of her fish.

“I was hoping to try and bring back the garden and install gas lighting throughout the entire manor, if the Count would allow it.”

The Viscountess’ eyes light up, “That’s a splendid idea!”

“Ah I’m glad you agree. If you stayed longer maybe you could help oversee the renovations.”

“Could you at least stay for the wedding? I don’t have many guests attending.”

“Well I might be-” The Viscountess is cut off by Winnie, who calls out as she runs over to them. “Lady Boushley, Viscountess! The Count has arrived early!”

Caroline jumps up from her seat, “What?! He wasn’t scheduled to come back for another week.”

“H-He finished earlier than expected,” Winnie says nearly out of breath. She turns to the Viscountess.. “The Count wishes to meet with you right away.”