Evelina observed the scene with a fond smile, touched as she watched the animal inch closer to Eliza. “It seems it likes you, dear.”
“Oh, Miss Balfour, may we keep him? He seems so lost and in need of a home,” Eliza pleaded, her eyes showing her desperation.
Evelina’s heart swelled with affection for the girl’s kind heart. “You know, I suppose we could care for him until we find his rightful owner. But I’m not the one to come to an ultimate decision on the matter, you know this.”
“Oh, but isn’t he such an adorable creature?” Eliza’s eyes sparkled as she peered at the puppy now nestled in her arms. “He is indeed charming. But Father won’t allow a dog in the manor.” Her brow furrowed in concern. “I can’t bear the thought of leaving him out in the cold. We must find a way to keep him safe and warm.” She pleaded, her gaze fixed on the dog’s innocent eyes.
Evelina mulled over the situation for a moment, before a spark of determination lit up her eyes. “I have an idea. Follow me, Eliza. We’ll find a shelter for our furry friend that your father won’t stumble upon.”
As they stealthily made their way through the estate, she led Eliza to a corner behind the garden, hidden from the prying eyes of the staff.
“This spot should keep him safe from your father’s disapproving gaze,” she reassured her.
The girl’s face lit up with gratitude. “Thank you, Miss Balfour! I couldn’t bear to part with him.”
Evelina smiled in response. “You’re welcome. What shall we name him?”
“How about Whiskers? A fitting name for our clandestine companion,” Eliza suggested with a smile, before cooing at the animal once again.
Evelina nodded in agreement, smiling at Whiskers in the girl’s arms. “Whiskers it is.”
“Oh, thank you for helping me, Miss Balfour. I shall come to visit him every day!”
In the secluded, serene depths of the garden, vibrant colors of blooming flowers surrounded Evelina and Eliza as they sat on a weathered wooden bench.
The area was a hidden oasis, shielded by lush greenery and fragrant blossoms, a perfect sanctuary for their secret rendezvous with Whiskers.
Evelina watched with a soft smile as Eliza’s eyes sparkled with joy, her laughter mingling with the rustle of leaves. The little girl’s gentle hands caressed Whiskers, who responded with contented barks, basking in her affection.
Evelina’s heart swelled with pride at Eliza’s kindness and the bond forming between her and her newfound companion. As the puppy lay at Eliza’s feet at last, a sense of peace settled over the trio.
Eliza leaned against Evelina and let out a contented sigh.
“Eliza, what’s on your mind?” Evelina inquired gently, her eyes reflecting concern for the young girl beside her.
Eliza suddenly raised her head. She hesitated for a moment, her gaze fixed on a point somewhere in the distance. “Miss Balfour, I’ve been thinking about my mother more often lately,” she began, her voice soft with emotion.
“I’ve always heard such lovely things about her. They say she was beautiful and confident, a woman of grace and poise.” Her eyes flickered with an inexplicable longing. “I often wonder, Miss Balfour, if life would be different if she were here. Maybe things would be easier, and I wouldn’t feel so lost at times. I wouldn’t be… how I am.”
“Eliza…” Evelina trailed off, her heart heavy with sympathy.
Yet, she was also surprised by the unexpected turn their conversation had taken. Her mind drifted to the Duke’s warning against discussing his late wife—a warning that lingered in the back of her mind.
But the raw sadness on Eliza’s face pushed away any thought to dismiss the young girl’s longing or change the subject.
Gulping back her initial instinct to steer the conversation away, Evelina met Eliza’s eyes, compassion and determination flickering in her own. Eliza’s sorrowful expression spoke volumes, prompting Evelina to listen, to be the confidante she needed at that moment.
“I always feel awful that I never met my mother,” Eliza confessed, her words heavy with unspoken grief. Her voice was barely above a whisper, “Not having any memories of her… it hurts.”
Evelina’s hand found hers, offering silent reassurance and understanding.
“My father told me she loved me very much and that she passed away in an accident,” Eliza continued softly, her fingers fidgeting with the delicate lace on her gown. “And about my father, Miss Balfour… I-I don’t feel close to him.” She took a deep breath, her gaze drifting to the floor. “He’s… intimidating. I get too anxious, and sometimes… I’m even scared of him.”
Evelina’s heart ached for the young girl and her complicated relationship with her father. Eliza looked up at her again, seeking words of comfort.
“I understand, my dear. It can be daunting when a parent appears stern,” Evelina acknowledged, her voice filled with empathy. “But remember, love can manifest itself in different ways. Your father cares for you deeply, even if he may seem imposing at times.”
Eliza searched Evelina’s face for reassurance. “He has been less strict with me lately, but I still feel uneasy around him,” she admitted, her vulnerability laid bare.
