“Miss Balfour, I must admit, my head feels as heavy as a leaden tome after today’s lesson.” Eliza let out a loud sigh as she stretched her arms, shifting uncomfortably on the bench.
Evelina’s laughter carried across the garden, and her smile was warm as she motioned for the girl to get up. “Perhaps a walk, then? The blooms shall surely invigorate you.”
Along the winding paths, the sunlight filtered through the lush canopies overhead as they strolled through the manicured gardens of the estate, the soft rustle of their skirts blending with the gentle whisper of the wind.
Eliza’s footsteps grew lighter, her fatigue melting away the longer they walked. “Your company is a balm to my weary mind, Miss Balfour. Thank you for being here.”
“Oh…” Evelina’s heart swelled at this unexpected confession. She let out a peal of laughter that tinkled like a crystal chandelier, filling the air with joy. “If this is what I get for our strolls, then we shall simply have to make them a daily occurrence.”
Eliza’s giggles were infectious as she looked up at Evelina lovingly. “Do I not say it enough? I am grateful for having you, Miss Balfour.”
Evelina shook her head quickly. “No, you do not have to tell me a thing.” She smiled down at her as though she were precious cargo. “Your dedication to your studies is all I need, and your actions let me know that you appreciate me enough.”
“I still want to say it, however.” Eliza’s smile grew shy. “Miss Balfour, I do so enjoy our lessons together, every single day.”
Evelina returned her smile, her eyes reflecting the genuine affection she held for her charge. “And I, too, cherish the time we spend learning and exploring the world, my dear.”
They smiled at each other warmly.
But then, the sweet moment was interrupted by a soft wailing sound drifting from the garden, piquing their curiosity.
“Do you hear that?” Eliza asked, her voice wavering slightly as the unfamiliar sound came again from the bushes.
Evelina’s eyes widened in curiosity and apprehension. “Indeed, Eliza. It sounds like…” She strained her ears. “It sounds like a whimper.”
She paused and looked around, suddenly worried about their lack of an escort. It was very unlikely that a dangerous, wounded animal would stray this close to the main buildings. Nevertheless, her eyes darted towards the path leading back to the mansion.
“Eliza, perhaps we should?—”
“Shall we investigate, Miss Balfour?” Eliza looked up at her with excited eyes. “Adventure beckons, and I feel a newfound boldness stirring within me.”
“Are you certain?”
Evelina’s question did not deter the young girl. Instead, Eliza nodded her head vehemently.
They approached the bushes cautiously, uncertainty clouding their expressions as they braced themselves for the unknown.
As they neared the source of the sound, Eliza’s hand instinctively reached for Evelina’s, seeking reassurance. “We should be careful. The thrill of the unknown grips me, yet I’m still quite a bit afraid.”
Evelina’s lips curled into a smile despite her racing heart. “Would you like us to turn back?”
Eliza’s inquisitive gaze met hers, and a silent agreement passed between them. They followed the source of the sound, taking deep breaths before pulling back the thorny bushes.
Their eyes widened as they found a small golden puppy, slightly dirty and seemingly lost, nestled among the flowers.
“Oh!” they gasped, the sound echoing through the garden and slightly startling the animal.
“Miss Balfour, look! A tiny puppy all alone!” Eliza exclaimed, her voice filled with concern.
Evelina smiled warmly, her eyes reflecting the little girl’s compassion. “Oh, dear, it seems this little one has lost its way, indeed.”
She searched their surroundings for a sign as to how the puppy ended up there to no avail.
Slowly, they approached the puppy, who started wagging its tail in excitement. Evelina couldn’t help but be taken by the animal’s openness.
Eliza knelt down, her hands reaching out tentatively towards the furry creature. “Come here, little one. Do not be afraid,” she cooed, her voice tender and reassuring.
The puppy, sensing her gentle nature, nuzzled her hand affectionately, eliciting a delighted giggle from her.
