Chapter 14Charlotte dressed for the evening by rote, silently following her maid’s instructions. The girl fussed over her mistress’ chilled appearance and damp clothes, and once Charlotte was dry and warm, she laid out a dark blue velvet dress and helped her into it.
When she had rearranged Charlotte’s hair, the maid exclaimed at the finishing touch of the glory of the shawl against the deep colour of the fabric. In her numb state, even Charlotte could dimly admire the contrast.
Releasing the maid to attend the below-stairs gathering, Charlotte sat at her dressing table, gazing unseeingly at her reflection. When there was a tap at the door, she automatically checked her appearance, marvelling she could look so well when all had turned to ashes.
As promised, Anthony was prompt. Rather th
