"I know this isn't as good as it has been or will be, but I hope you enjoy. I will post the staff's reaction soon.
Elsie and Charles walked into the library, nervousness flooding them. Tom told them he'd make sure the family was in the library and ring down for Elsie and Charles.
"Carson, Mrs. Carson, how can we help you?" Robert asked, standing up and walking toward them. Charles looked at Elsie and gave her a reassuring smile, as did Tom.
"We came to let you know that we are resigning." Elsie said, thinking about what she's going to say next. Cora and Robert looked at each other, confusion on their faces and Mary frowned.
"But why? Are you unhappy here?" Cora asked, moving to stand next to Robert.
"No, we're very happy here." Elsie started before nerves overtook her. She took a deep breath before continuing. "Last night, a solicitor came to our house, to let me know of my inheritance." Elsie said. Charles took her hand and squeezed it, steadying her.
"What inheritance?" Robert asked.
"I am the new Duchess of Eland." Elsie said simply. Cora gasped, a smile on her face. Robert's jaw dropped, Edith and Mary had a confused expression on their faces.
"But how?" Mary asked, standing up. She looked at Violet, who had a shocked look on her face.
"My father's aunt was the Duchess of Eland. She had a son who never married, and I am the closest relative." Elsie said. Cora and Robert looked at each other, having a silent conversation. Robert looked back at the Carson's, a smile on his face.
"Well, let me be the first to congratulate you on your inheritance. I have great confidence you will do very well." Robert said, shaking Elsie's hand. Elsie smiled happily.
"Thank you." She said. Cora followed her husbands lead. Violet stood up, and everyone turned to look at her.
"Congratulations, Mrs. Carson. You must let us know when you're settled in so we can come visit." Violet said, a small smile crossing her face. Elsie nodded.
"Of course, we will." Elsie said, smiling. Cora stepped forward.
"We will meet later today to discuss more in detail. Of course, we must invite you to luncheon." Cora said, knowing what the answer will be.
"Thank you, your ladyship, but we must decline as we haven't told the staff yet." Elsie said. Cora nodded and smiled.
"Of course. Let's meet after luncheon." Cora said. Elsie nodded, before leaving the room, Carson following closely, sighing with relief.