Page 70 (1/2)

A househness wishes to see Elle!" she announced

Bernadine turned, bouncing Duval away from the bed with her backside "I shouldn’t be surprised What a delight! Coirls--and Duval We will leave the two of theain "I have so lad you are ho Bernadine from the rooed it," Heloise told the barber-physician

"But Mademoiselle Elle really should been cared for," Duval complained

"I am certain His Worshipness will see to it," Heloise dryly said

The barber-physician gru up his medical instruments He bowed deeply at Elle "Mademoiselle Elle, allow me to voice my happiness that you have returned I expect I shall see you later today," he said before leaving

Heloise, as right behind him, paused in the doorway "Elle, welco the door before Elle could reply Elle could hear the dour housekeeper speak through the door "Bernadine, listening at the doorill not count for giving the has earned an audience with the girl"

All was quiet for a few rateful to find that while she slept Eled her into one of Elle’s plainest dresses

As Elle stretched the door clicked open, and Severin, dressed in a dark green waistcoat, entered He shut the door behind hiainst it "Elle," he said

"Hello, Severin"

"How do you feel?" Severin asked, approaching Elle with glittering eyes

Elle sed and reached for a chair to support herself "Fine A little addled I didn’t recognize the roo the ornate arold

"Do you like it?" Severin inquired

"It’s very… elaborate," Elle said

Severin chuckled "You find it gaudy, don’t you?"

"Maybe a little," Elle grinned Her eyes ide and she grabbed for her hidden pouch It wasn’t there! Elle whirled around and spotted it on a tea table set next to her bed She swiped it and re in relief "Here--I was supposed to take thehness Prince Lucien before I will"

"What is it?" Severin asked, unrolling the papers