Page 48 of The Duchess' Replacement

“Why do you two look like you’ve seen a ghost?”

Lizzie’s face went white. “Ghosts? Are there ghosts up there?” She took a step closer to William who looked annoyed.

“There’s no such thing as Ghosts, Lizzie.” William reprimanded her. “It’s just another room of the house. No different than the kitchen or library.”

Sarah smiled brightly at William. “He’s right. Thank you, William.”

Her praise did nothing to loosen the grimace on William’s face.

He made it no secret he did not approve of her plan to disrupt the Duke’s study. He most likely was afraid of being associated with the ruckus.

She leaned into William. “I promise I will not mention you helped me nor here or at Miss Cordell’s. And if your association is found out, I’ll say you protested every step of the way.”

William pursed his lips but he nodded in acceptance.

“Perfect. Now, go on and grab the rest of the curtains and I think I saw some pillows up there as well.”

William walked to the attic doorway with a scared Lizzie shuffling her feet behind him.

“It might take us several trips, but we must be fast, I only have tonight and tomorrow to finish my plan.” Sarah called out to them.

Lizzie stood in the doorway and looked back towards Sarah. “Do you think the Duke will be all right with these changes, Your Grace? I mean, I’m sure he won’t be at first, but will he…” Lizzie looked nervous.

The reality of what they were doing must be starting to settle on Lizzie’s shoulders.

Sarah had to remind herself while she was able to hide behind the title of Duchess William, Sarah, and even Samuels didn’t have such protection.

Sarah walked back to where Lizzie stood. It took a bit of maneuvering with the curtain panels hung over her shoulders, but she took the maid’s face in her hands. “I make you the same promise I made William. I will not mention your name when this all comes to light. I will take your participation in my scheme to the grave.”

Lizzie smiled and shook her head. “Thank you, Your Grace.”

Sarah shooed the maid up the steps to the attic while she turned and hauled the two panels downstairs.

She unloaded the curtains she carried onto his desk causing some papers to blow off the desk.

“Your Grace? Are you in need of any assistance?”

Sarah looked over her shoulder and blew a stray piece of hair off of her face. “Samuels? I would love some, but the real question is are you willing to cross enemy lines to do so?” She asked with a wink.

The corners of his lips curved up as a small smile formed. “I’ve given it much thought, Your Grace. While I enjoy working here and I miss the quietness and order this house once maintained, I can’t help but think a little bit of change will be good for our Duke.” Samuels hesitated before adding, “May I speak freely, Your Grace?”

Sarah nodded. “Of course.”

“You may feel like you are on opposite sides from His Grace, but you two are a lot alike.”

Sarah mocked offense. “Take that back.” She said as she playfully grabbed her chest in fake shock.

Her motion garnered a laugh from Samuels. “It’s true and I have learned long ago it is much easier to give in and do what the Duke wants than to try to persuade him to see reason.”

Sarah fully turned to Samuels and placed her hands on her hips. “I feel there is a backhanded compliment in there.”

Samuels raised his hands in defense. “No ill will intended, Your Grace.”

“Very well, I’ll take the help no matter your reasoning. Will you see if Mrs. Bates is busy. I need some pillowcases made post haste. I know running a household takes a lot of effort but do you think she and the girls would be willing to make some pillowcases for the Duke?”

Samuels swallowed a laugh. “If it’s for the Duke I have no doubt they will jump at the chance. But for you, not only will they do it, but they will do so willingly.”

He dipped his head as he left.

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