He touched the brim of his hat and returned to the carriage. I entered the house slowly. It was very dark, and the living-room window curtains were still closed. I paused. Hazel hadn’t left a light burning. Of course she wouldn’t, not knowing I had left. Like a blind girl, I reached out and made my way to the stairs. There was some candlelight at the top, at least. Clinging to the shaky banister but trying not to put too much weight on it, I ascended, hoping it wouldn’t shatter. I found my way to my room, but when I got there, I didn’t pull back the comforter. I simply fell forward, almost diving into the bed, and almost instantly was in a very deep sleep.

I remained asleep until I felt someone touch my leg. For a few moments after I opened my eyes, I didn’t know where I was. Then I heard Hazel ask, “Are you all right, dearie?”

I took a deep breath and turned over to look up at her. How much did she know? Did she hear me come up the stairs late at night? Did she realize I had left the house?

“Oh, hi, Hazel,” I said, quickly putting my hand over my eyes. Bright light stung.

“My, my, you must have been tired. You didn’t even take off your clothes or prepare your bed,” she said. “How long did that gentleman caller keep you awake?”

I rubbed some life back into my face and sat up. She obviously hadn’t realized I had left. Thank goodness for that, I thought.

“I don’t remember,” I said. “What time is it?”

“Oh, it’s noon, at least,” she said. “I made some hard-boiled eggs and have some nice bacon and my homemade bread for you.” She leaned over to whisper, “Your great-aunt forgot you’re here. She hasn’t asked after you, so don’t be surprised she’s surprised when you come down.”

“I know,” I said. “Noon?”

“Maybe a little after.”

“No one’s come to ask about me?”

I remembered Garland had said he was coming by at noon. I imagined he was going to propose a lunch, maybe even a picnic. I envisioned him doing all that he could to make up for the terrible time I had experienced at Foxworth Hall. Now that I could think more about it, I realized I might have shared some of the blame. In any case, I thought I should give him a chance to apologize.

“No, missy,” Hazel said. “I’ve set out some fresh towels for you in the loo. I mean bathroom,” she quickly corrected. “Your aunt and I will be havin’ lunch while you have breakfast. Think of it this way. She’ll be delighted to see you all over again.” She laughed and left.