“Don’t mind Rose, my lady, she is very shy,” Rebecca continued. “I think all the dresses Lady Prudence picked out for you are exquisite, but I have a feeling you will like this one best.” She held up a periwinkle-and-white day dress. “And look at this,” she added, excited as a young schoolgirl as she pointed to the matching hat and gloves.

“Oh yes, that is beautiful. And such a beautiful shade.” Lady Tremaine traced the tips of her fingers over the fabric. The dress was a delicate shade of periwinkle, trimmed with white lace along the neckline, sleeves, and hem. The hat was white with periwinkle flowers.

“I thought you’d like this one best,” Rebecca said as Rose came out of the bathroom.

“The lady’s bath is ready,” said Rose.

“Thank you, Rose. Please hang this up while I attend Lady Tremaine.” Rebecca handed her the dress, then turned her attention back to the lady.

“My lady, I almost forgot. Mrs. Bramble asked me to keep this safe for you, but not to give it to you. She said something about a witch’s curse, or maybe it was a pirate’s, I’m not sure. Either way, I thought it was best that you should have it. I didn’t feel right keeping it from you.” She held out a small satin box.

Lady Tremaine took the box from Rebecca’s hand knowing exactly what was inside. “Poor Mrs. Bramble. Was she really talking of curses? I feel just awful bringing her on this trip without realizing she wasn’t up to it,” said Lady Tremaine. She was terribly worried about her lady’s maid.

“Don’t worry, my lady. Her behavior is a bit concerning, but she is in good hands downstairs. I promise you,” said Rebecca.

“Thank you, Rebecca, I don’t know what I would do without you,” she said as she opened the box to reveal an oval green brooch in its antique gold setting. Her heart sank looking at the brooch her husband had given her. They had chosen it together in a little shop near Eaton Square. They had been taking a stroll in the park when her husband suggested an alternate path home and they came upon the funny little shop. It wasn’t the sort of place her husband would usually frequent, but he seemed to have a purpose in taking her there, like he had planned it from the beginning. She remembered it vividly as if it had just happened the other day and not over six years ago now.

“Did you plan this, dear? Have you been here before?” she had asked as they reached the shop doors.