The Duke's Daughter (Editing)

Chapter Eleven

 All week Anna worked on our etiquette. From posture to how to eat chicken, I’d never known that so many things could be done in a proper manner. Anne even encouraged me to sing at the ball. I laughed at the idea, I’d only sang in the Christmas choir once in my life and vowed never to return. The woman who led us never liked me because of Megan stealing her husband away.

 “You should try at least,” Anna told me as she started to play the piano.

 “It wouldn’t hurt.” Jerry smiled.

 “You’re only saying that because Anna came up with it.” I pouted. I knew my brother all too well; he was truly smitten with Anna.

 Her fingers smoothly played a song I’d never heard before. It was very calming and lovely for the ear to hear. Anna’s whole body moved as she closed her eyes and let the music fill her soul. I could even catch her humming softly, smiling.

 “I think I know the perfect song for you,” Her eyes fluttered opened, “If you’re willing to try, of course.”

 I looked at the both of the skeptical of how all of this would turn out, “Fine, but if I don’t feel comfortable with it by the day before the ball, then I won’t be singing.”

 Jerry and Anna look at each other and both said with a tilt of their heads, “Fair enough.”

 Aside from my lessons and etiquette classes, I spent a lot of time with Olivia and Aunt Henrietta sorting out invitations and courses for the meals. It was quite stressful and I couldn’t even imagine doing this on my own. Not to mention Olivia’s none stop gabs about Drew. Any detail that could possibly be told about him, she would tell me. For example, his favorite sport was hunting. He’d been in many competitions and almost made a bet with the prince that he could kill more birds than him. Luckily the bet never occurred, who knew what could have happened if the prince lost.

 “Oh I cannot wait to see how are dresses come out! We’ll surely win the hearts of everybody.  Don’t you think so, mama?” Olivia beamed with excitement.

 “Yes, yes of course.” Aunt Henrietta said boringly.

 “I’d wish you’d truly listen to me, mama”

 “I do darling, it’s just this letter from your father is what I’m more interested about at the moment.”

 “So I’m not important?” Olivia gasped. I knew this was my moment to escape. It seemed there was always a disagreement between those two.

 I scurried out of the drawing room, before bumping into Clare.

 “Clare! How are you?” I asked excitedly.

 In shock she responded, “I’m doing well, my lady.”

 I noticed that she had a basket of clothes in her hands, “Do you need any help folding that.” 

 Her eyes grew wide again, “Of course not, my lady.”

 “I was only asking because you seem so tired.” I followed behind her as she walked away.

 “I don’t need your help.” Clare seemed slightly annoyed so I decided it would be best if I left her alone.

 It was true though. I had noticed that Clare seemed so distraught lately and I couldn’t bare to see it any longer. I knew the feeling of hopelessness, and I could surely see it in her face. If only she’d allow me to help her.

 “Standing in a hall again, I see.” Gil startled me from behind, “Escaped Olivia’s wrath?”

 I was beginning to believe he could read minds. “Yes.”