Diclaimer: I don't own the Lost World, I just borrowed them.
Author's Note: Thanks to all who keep reviewing. You spur my beta onto editing the next parts. :)
"What's wrong dear," Jessie asked as they settled into the cushions.
Marguerite tried to summon a reassuring smile, but failed. "Nothing," she answered in a distant tone, then stared out the window.
Jessie let George turn the conversation to other matters while she watched Marguerite. While she had not known the younger woman for very long, it was obvious that something was weighing very heavily on her. And she was willing to bet her favorite broach that it had something to do with Lord Roxton. He had seemed very preoccupied when they left.
Once they arrived at home, she sent George upstairs and then corralled Marguerite in the drawing room pursued her line of questioning. "I know something is bothering you, my dear. Would you like to tell me what happened?"
Marguerite turned to Jessie, determine to simply assure the older woman that things were fine. This was something she needed to work out herself. All she needed was a little time and perspective and she would make things work out. She knew she shouldn't drag anyone else into the situation but the look of concern and warmth made her freeze in her tracks. It was so similar to the looks Summerlee used to give her as they had their private little heart-to-hearts out on the treehouse's terrace. She sank onto the couch and began to cry softly, feeling overwhelmed.
Jessie settled next to her, putting a comforting arm around her and rocking her gently. From all that George had told her about the heiress, she was a little surprised to be privy to this display of emotion. However, she knew that no matter how resiliant women appeared to the men in their lives, every once in a while, they simply needed a sympathetic shoulder to cry on.
Marguerite found herself telling Jessie everything...all the mean things the vindictive women had said, missing Veronica and Finn, worrying about Ned, John's proposal, and the unfinished business she still had to attend to.
Jessie listened to all of this, making only small reassuring comments and sending words of comfort. She reassured Marguerite that everything was fine and it would all work out if she had faith in her friends. "Truly Marguerite, things will look better in the morning. You'll see. Now, you'll feel better after a good night's sleep." Jessie ushered Marguerite upstair and hugged her briefly before continuing on to her own bedroom. By the time Marguerite climbed into bed, she was ready to face the world again and was more determined then ever to finish all business that tied her to London.