AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“I will let you know later.” She paused, emotion welling up in her chest. “You know, Charlotte, I really enjoyed spending time with you and Julia, sharing a story. I have never had such an experience before, a bonding of sisters.”
“I enjoyed it as well. We women must stick together. Are you sure you will be all right?”
“Yes, yes, of course. You tend to your patients. I will tend to myself. Oh, no!” She put a hand over her mouth. “I am meant to assist you with them! I am so sorry, Charlotte, amid all this madness, I entirely forgot!”
Charlotte laughed. “Your entertaining tales are enough help right now. There is nothing I need help with today. I was simply doing a little research on some new medical advancements. We can ride together tomorrow. There are a few things I would like to show you. But today, my friend, you enjoy yourself!”
Smiling, Elizabeth replied, “I thank you. Enjoy your research!” She left the room hurriedly, thinking about what she might do and how to do it without overthinking. Her resolve was already made, and she didn’t want to ruin it by allowing the words and beliefs of Aunt Mildred to spoil what could be life-changing.
In her room, she pulled out her best dress and called for the maid to assist her. It was a silken cream dress with ruffles, and Elizabeth always felt exceedingly pretty in it. When she had first purchased it, her father was concerned about its potential immorality, but he eventually allowed her to wear it to the opera or on other occasions. Tonight felt like the exact occasion for it.
While waiting for the maid to finish her hair, Elizabeth attempted to pen a letter to her aunt to assuage her aunt’s fears for the moment and provide herself with just a bit more time. It seemed an age before she was dressed and ready to leave, her excitement and anticipation bubbling inside of her. She’d asked Mrs. MacLean to help her find a passage across the water to return tomorrow. She said that she meant to visit General Andrews, which was only partially true, in fact, but he knew nothing about it just yet. She did want to visit him, but she was not certain tonight would be the night. At least she knew she had a place to stay in case she needed it.
It was a hurried plan, but it was the best she had for the moment. Soon enough, Mrs. MacLean was waving goodbye to her from the shoreline as one of Calum’s men rowed her across the water, the prow of the boat slicing through the calm surface of the Sound. She put her cloak up over her head, for the day was a little chillier than expected, and she stared off toward the mainland, her heart pumping quickly, giving her courage.
She had to do what she felt was right. She needed to see more of the world and not shy away from it. Her plan was to visit the house where Brea and the other ladies of the night worked.
