Cora stood in the doorway, unseen by the servants in the corridor. She was listening to Mrs. Hughes give instructions to a couple of young maids. She peeked around the doorframe to catch a glimpse of the girls, they looked fascinated by what Elsie had to say. Cora internally reprimanded herself for thinking of the woman by her given name, it wasn't her right, to Cora she was Mrs. Hughes, formidable housekeeper. Mrs. Hughes looked and sounded so wise as she talked to those girls. Cora longed to be so wise and respected. The respect given to Cora was something she had been born and then married into. Mrs. Hughes had worked and earned her position, she was respected for her experience and skill, Cora admired and envied her. She also couldn't help but feel affection for Mrs. Hughes as she listened to her talk about the importance of keeping Cora and her family comfortable and happy and explaining quite accurately how to do so. She lamented that she didn't know her housekeeper any better, they always only talked about the running of the house, never anything personal, that would be inappropriate but Cora longed for it.

Her favorite part of the day was discussing house business with Mrs. Hughes, it made her feel important when Elsie sought her approval and input, even if only about her own house. There she went again, she really needed to sop thinking of her as Elsie, she was likely to let it slip one day. That would be such a monstrous faux pas, she dreaded the possibility of accidentally insulting someone she so respected.

Mrs. Hughes dismissed the girls and Cora could hear the jingling of keys moving closer to her doorway. "Oh, I thought you were downstairs, my lady, is there anything you need?"

"Oh no, E-Mrs. Hughes. I'm quite alright, I just didn't want to disturb you while you instructed our new maids. How are they coming along?" If Elsie noticed Cora's slip-up she didn't let on.

"I think they'll work out quite nicely, my lady, they're quick learners."

"I'm glad to hear it. Will you walk with me? I think we should discuss flowers for the library."