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A door creaked open and Severin exited his study "You areyou have just recovered fro of my independence One cannot celebrate quietly," Elle said

"I don’t suppose you doquietly," Severin dryly said

"Correct Jock!"

Severin winced at Elle’s shout, but Jock ran the re?" Elle asked as the fluffy dog plopped down at her feet

"The library I need some research materials"

"In that case Jock and I shall accoallantly offered

"I am surprised your keeper has released you Does she know you are raising a racket?" Severin asked as they started down the hallway Jock ran ahead of the to run free She is occupied, supervising the cleaning of my room"

"Ah, that would explain your celebration"

"You should be happy You will not be forced to dine alone," Elle said

"I will not dignify that co a chuckle out of Elle

"If anything, I should--whoop!" Elle said as they reached the main floor and Severin pulled her back in the hallway

"Avert your eyes," Severin said, his voice quiet

"What?"

"The rel has found Heloise"

"I don’t understand," Elle said, craning to see the housekeeper and Jock

The well groo up to Heloise The tall, stork-like housekeeper had her hands planted on her hips, but when Jock circled her she crouched and held out her ar launched hi his tummy as she stood A smile, the first smile Elle had ever seen Heloise display, was on her face

Elle stared at the spectacle "Incredible," she finally said