Chapter 39

Louisa was in the painting room with Miss Jones. She was upset about something. She couldn't tell what it was, but her heart was tight.

"Honey, can you hear me?" Miss Jones asked, putting her hand on Louisa's shoulder.

"Oh I'm sorry! I... I don't know what's wrong with me. I can't concentrate today, Miss Jones. Pardon." Louisa admitted, ducking her head.

"It's all right. This is the first time you've been like this and I'm not going to scold you for it. We all have bad days, my girl." The old woman offered Louisa a sincere smile and that helped to calm the young woman down a bit.

"Miss Dubois, Lord Crawford wishes to speak to you." Mindy informed, walking into the painting room.

"I'll be talking to him right away, Mindy. Thanks." Louisa answered and stood up. "With your permission, Miss Jones."

Miss Jones bowed her head, indicating that she was in agreement with Louisa's withdrawal.