Lady Tremaine’s head was whirling with everything she had to do, and with everything she and Sir Richard had discussed the night before. He was right to suggest she only bring her personal belongings. It was an extraordinarily long journey to the Many Kingdoms, after all, and it wasn’t sensible to bring everything with her, including her servants.

Thank goodness for Rebecca, who was fussing around the room, directing Lady Hackle’s staff in the packing of Lady Tremaine’s trunks so she could make her way home on the next train. Lady Tremaine was eager to be reunited with Anastasia and Drizella as soon as possible so she could share the good news.

“Rebecca, once we’re back in London I want you to supervise the packing of my personal belongings. Dresses, hats, gloves, jewelry, purses, some of my favorite books, and of course the contents of my vanity. Everything else will have to be put into crates and auctioned off. I’ll need you to oversee all of that as well. I will have my hands full breaking the news to the girls and meeting with my solicitor so we can arrange the sale of the town house,” said Lady Tremaine.

“Of course, my lady. And what of Miss Anastasia and Miss Drizella’s things? Shall I pack for them as well?” she asked.

“No, Nanny Pinch will see to that. I’ve written ahead. And, Rebecca, I need you to work closely with my butler, Avery, to make sure everything is done to my specifications.”

Rebecca stopped what she was doing. “How will Avery and the other servants feel about me swooping in and taking charge like that, my lady? Will they be upset about Mrs. Bramble?”

Lady Tremaine hadn’t even thought of that. “Well, Avery is a good sort, but if he does get his nose out of joint, there is nothing we can do.” She continued, “Oh, Rebecca, there is so much to do. And I have to break it to the staff that I won’t be needing them.” She was starting to feel faint.

“My lady, please sit down,” Rebecca said. “I think you might swoon from all the excitement. I wouldn’t worry about your staff. I can’t imagine they’d want to travel so far anyway.” She had stopped directing the maids in order to give Lady Tremaine her full attention.

“Yes, I think you’re right. Though I do hope Nanny Pinch comes along, even if just for the first few months.” She sat down in a pink velvet chair situated near a window with a little round table beside it.

“Shall I send down for some tea?” Rebecca asked.

“I know you mean well, always suggesting tea, but if you’re going to be my lady’s maid, remember, never tea, Rebecca, always coffee. I know that’s not very English of me, but I’ve always preferred it.”