Hey everyone! I'm sorry it's been so long since I updated last. A whole month! Eesh! It's been hectic. School and dance really kept me busy. But after Saturday, that shouldn't be too much of a problem. We'll get senior year and graduation out of the way, then hopefully you'll see a lot more updates.
This will be a very short chapter, but I really hope to get something up before the end of the week. So, enjoy.
Chapter III
Desiree just gave an exasperated sigh.
"Yes you are, my dear. And as always, with a surprise."
Stephanie smiled at her Aunt Desiree.
"You didn't expect me to come home in a normal way did you?" replied Stephanie, laughing.
"Of course not, my dear. But you had best change now before you catch a chill. You are soaking wet. And afterwards, I would like you to tell me how all this came about."
Stephanie opened the door and walked into the room that would now belong to her. It was large and very lavishly decorated in blues and whites and golds. The furniture was elaborate and well made. Stephanie walked over to the roaring fireplace set into one of the walls to warm herself.
She cast a critical eye over her surroundings. How would she ever get used to this? And she knew she never would. It was so big and desolate. So French. France could never be home. Especially Paris. England has been her home for almost 22 years and it always would be.
While she stood by the fire, she felt herself transported back in time. She was back in England, riding over the bridge in the fall. Attending the dances held all summer long. Flirting scandalously with the young men. Walking over the grounds with Joshua. Joshua….
A soft knock on the door brought her out of her reverie.
"Mademoiselle?"
A young woman, no older than herself, peered around the door toward her.
"Yes?" said Stephanie.
"Mademoiselle, I am Therese. Your aunt thought you might like some help changing."
"Oh, yes. That would be lovely." Stephanie smiled at her kindly. "Please, come in."