Pinch of Arsenic

Chapter 11

That same day, Lavinia woke up at the crack of dawn with the wish to prance around the halls. It was as if the orchestra piece that was her life finally ended in a chirpy allegro, cheerful and upbeat and not without interest.

When Eleanor came in with breakfast to ready her for the day, she held a nosy grin.

"Are you still reeling from last night, my lady?"

"How could I not?"

"It's perfectly understandable, my lady."

"Do you think he'll come today?" Lavinia asked but then answered herself, "probably not, he has work today. It is Monday."

Eleanor chuckled and patted the vanity seat.

"Maybe you can write him a letter."

"I think I shall."

Lavinia wore a pale yellow dress with little, pink embroidered flowers on the sleeves and hems. She felt like a cupcake, a happy cupcake.

Soon after, she inhabited her office. No. Her dad's office. Her eyes scanned the stack of papers on her desk until a knock came at the door.

"Yes?" she asked.

"Lord Rutherford is here to see you, my lady," a maid answered, "I've moved him to the parlor."

"Thank you. Tell him I'll be down in a minute."

"Yes m'lady."

She no longer wore her mourning attire, so just what excuse could she use? After stashing papers back into their compartments, Lavinia closed the office door and left.

Maybe, he wouldn't even broach marriage or relationships. Maybe, they could have a nice, friendly talk.

She stepped into the parlor without asking for an introduction.

"Good morning, my lord," she said with a chipper smile.

"Morning."

"Would you like some tea? Would vanilla be alright?"

"Yes, my lady, that sounds lovely."

The maid didn't need to be told and simply left to retrieve the drinks.

His hand rested inside his coat pocket. Now, what terrifying secret hid in there? She looked down at her left hand.

"Lady Lavinia, I'm sure you have recognized my intentions towards you."

With a tight-lipped smile, she said, "I have."

"I'm going to be straightforward. I am a sensible man, and eventually, I need to marry. You are a good friend, and I think we could make each other happy as husband and wife."

Her eyes almost popped out, not because he was proposing, but because of how he was proposing.

He continued, "I don't know if you seek love in marriage, and I can't promise that. However, I promise comfort and friendship."

"Are you proposing?" she questioned.

"Yes?"

"I'm sorry, but I... I do want love. And I think there's someone I already love."

"The detective?" he interjected.

Lavinia could tell he wasn't mad. He wasn't jealous. Her lips quirked into a small smile. "Mm-mhm."

"Good thing I didn't pull out the ring then."

She laughed, "Yes. I do hope we may remain friends."

"Of course, I did say you're a good friend."