“Pen, some of those books are not meant for you to read.”
Evelina raised her eyebrows at Louisa’s crimson cheeks. After making a mental note to find out the cause of her sister’s embarrassment in those books, she turned to face the group as they reached the door at last.
“Inside voices, girls, please?”
As they stepped inside and made for the drawing room, Alexandra’s tone echoed through the hall, “We truly were worried sick, Sister. Next time, please send word so we can ease our minds.”
“I promise I sha?—”
“Miss Balfour! You made it back in one piece!” Mrs. Higgins’ voice suddenly cut through the air. “Oh goodness gracious, we were all so worried!”
Murmurs of agreement filled the room, and Evelina rubbed her temples, guilt weighing heavily on her.
Unfortunately, Penelope’s lips were quicker than Louisa’s hand. “She got caught in the storm, Mrs. Higgins. Can you imagine it?”
“Oh goodness! Miss! You ought to know better!”
“Oops!” Alexandra and Penelope giggled simultaneously as the horrified Mrs. Higgins rushed over to place her hands on Evelina’s forehead, checking her temperature.
Louisa and Margaret made faces at each other as well, grinning at the sight before them. They all knew Mrs. Higgins was the only one who watched over Evelina as she did them.
“I am fine. Please, do not worry yourself.” Evelina barely managed to shift from the woman’s grasp, dodging when she tried to reach out again.
“Oh, but how could we be sure, Miss? The last thing we need is you falling ill!” Mrs. Higgins’ face was pinched with worry. “We barely have enough money to call for a doctor, and?—”
“I am certain if I was ill, I would have felt it by now. Is that not how it works?” Evelina shifted out of reach again, laughing affectionately as the housekeeper grumbled in response. “Mrs. Higgins, please! Thank you, but I am fine.”
“I shall find you something to eat. Something warm. Whatever is needed to keep your blood hot.” Mrs. Higgins’ gaze shifted to the rest of the sisters with an affirming nod, “A cup of spiced tea, girls? Would anyone prefer anything else?”
“Tea is fine!”
“Thank you, Mrs. Higgins.”
Evelina smiled as her sisters echoed her response.
Mrs. Higgins scurried off quickly, urgency in her step.
As soon as they properly settled in their seats with their refreshments, Penelope, her eyes wide with anticipation, urged, “Now, tell us about the things you saw, Sister. What was the storm like? Was it as exciting and frightening as it sounded?”
“We thought you were simply running late after your tutoring session, as has happened sometimes,” Margaret added, and bit her lip when she realized her confession. “I am sorry for sharingyour secret, sister. But when the storm began, we couldn’t help but fear the worst.” her anxiety from the previous night lingering in her gaze.
“Indeed.” Louisa shook her head slowly. “Father returned, and we couldn’t bring ourselves to share our fears with him either. We had to retire quietly to our chambers, hoping and praying for your safe return.”
Alexandra nodded somberly. “It was a very long night for all of us. We tried to stay calm, but we were so worried. Not knowing where you were, Sister, was truly unsettling.”
Penelope, her eyes wide with the memory of the stormy night, admitted, “I woke up during the storm seeking comfort in your presence, as I would. But when I found it empty, my heart almost stopped. Oh, it was awful, Sister!”
“My goodness, I am so sorry.” Evelina reached out, taking their hands in hers. “My dears, I am truly sorry for causing you such distress.” She gave a warm smile. “I found myself caught in an unexpected turn of events, but I am fine, as you see. I am not cross with you Maggie. You did well.”
Margaret, her eyes soft with relief, squeezed her hand gently in return. “All that matters is that you are here with us, safe and sound. Seeing you unharmed brings us more joy than words can express.”
“You must tell us every detail of your escapade, Evie,” Louisa teased, a smile playing on her lips. “I can already imagine it being a tale worth retelling for years to come.”
Evelina laughed and leaned back in her chair. She bit her lip as the memories flooded her mind, some moments more than others. A blush bloomed on her cheeks.
“Hmm?” She looked up to find Margaret staring at her crimson cheeks suspiciously. “I, uh…” She quickly cleared her throat. “I spent the night at the Duke of Dunmore’s estate.”
“What?!” her sisters gasped in unison.
