Chapter II

Witley Court-England

May 15, 1888

-Ariana, dear sister, how have you been?

-Well and you Danielle, how are you finding your pregnancy?

-Happy, I am very happy, although sometimes I get tired, the baby is very big.

-Maybe it's two babies, don't you think?

-That would be wonderful, if so, then Michelle will have two babies too, her belly is just as big as mine.

-That's wonderful news.

Sister, I hope to be here when you give birth.

-Mrs Bradford, Miss Anlwick is looking for you and your sister.

-Sure, show her in and serve the tea please.

-Yes, ma'am.

-Good morning Lady Danielle, good morning Ariana.

-Good morning Naomi, nice of you to come and visit us.

-Ariana sent me a letter saying that she was arriving today.

-Oh! I see, I suppose you've come to take a walk with my sister and talk.

-Only if you allow me to, and I'm also here to ask your permission for Ariana to attend the dance my parents are giving on Friday.

-Of course, Naomi. Ariana, you have my permission.

-Thank you, sister.

-Well, I'll leave you two to go for a walk in the garden.

-Thank you, Lady Bradford.

-What are you doing here Naomi?

-You know, I've come to take you to all the dances this season, especially the one my family will be giving very soon.

-You know I can't leave my sister's house, my mother would kill me.

-I know, I would put you to work in the whole mansion without the help of the servants, but don't you think it's worth it?

- No Naomi, you'd better not insist that I can't attend the dances.

-How long will you stay here?

-Till Danielle gives birth, I'll stay and help her with everything she needs.

-Something like her lady-in-waiting, I don't think she'll mind you going to the dances with me and my family.

-Maybe not, but you know I don't even have a dress to go to.

-So don't worry, just ask your sister's permission and I'll take care of the rest.

-Okay Naomi, let's ask her.

-I don't know how you managed to convince Danielle but I'm glad you did.

-I know, and it's best that you stay at my house until the dance my parents are giving.

-Thank you Naomi.

-I told them that you would come with me and they loved knowing that you would stay with us for a few days.

-Really.

-Yes, my parents think you're a lovely young lady and they've already prepared your room.

-Your parents are very good Naomi.

-Yes, it's time for bed, rest, Ariana.

-Rest, Naomi.

-Good morning Lord Anlwick, good morning Lady Anlwick.

-Good morning, Ariana, they said in unison.

-How did you wake up, my dear?

-Well, Lady Anlwick, I thank you for your attention.

-Of course, I hope that you and Naomi will be ready for the day we have today.

-Yes, although Naomi would not comment on it, she said it was a surprise.

Naomi walked into the dining room with a big smile and greeted her parents with a kiss on the cheek.

-Good morning mother, good morning father.

-Good morning, dear.

-Did you have a good rest?

-Sure mother, I'm ready to go.

-Yes daughter, the carriage will be ready after breakfast.