Journey to Happiness

ss, shoulders back, chin slightly raised, with an effortless elegance that belied the rigorous months of training she had endured. Every motion, every glance had been practiced to preci

d into her meal. "Ellsmere has been a charming retreat," she remarked. "A small, quiet escape. But ou

this, hearing the Countess confirm their departure made a rush of excitement bloom in her che

at Elza. "We came to Ellsmere to fulfill our duty to the less fortunate, and I da

he had woven every night as she lay awake envisioning herself dazzling the salons and drawing rooms of the capital, claiming her rightful place among the city's

thundered. "It is an honor to know that you believe I'm prepared for this. I

ake no mistake, Elza," she continued, her voice low but resolute, "there will be many eyes upon you. The capital isn't like Ellsmere; there, t

hening her resolve. "I understand," she said, her tone confid

. Then prepare yourself. We leave in two days. The c

n these months, absorbing every lesson in etiquette, every nuance of social maneuvering, and every possible way to gain favor. Bu

name would be whispered in the grand salons and elegant ba

-

racefully in her lap, her face composed as she waited for Lady Katherine's arrival. Her stomach churned with disdain, but her expression remained calm

steps grew louder, more commanding, until finally, Lady Katherine entered. Her gaze was as crit

marked, settling into the seat across from Elza. Her gaze flitted over Elza's

her voice smooth and controlled. She reached for the teapot, pouring Lady Katherine's tea with the elegance of a no

Elza. "Thank me? And here I thought you'd be ready to flee this place

atisfaction. "Your guidance has... shaped me," she said, her words carefu

ou wanted, isn't it? To escape this backwater town

y Katherine's. "Though I may not have always appreciated the pain it too

sip her tea, seemed oblivious. For a few more minutes, they exchanged pleasa

small, polite smile as she looked down at Lady Katherine. "It's Lady Elza now," she said,

tearoom, her steps echoing down the hall. She felt a thrill, electric and dark, filling her veins. Behind her, Lady Katherine continued sipping

would simply become part of the past,

-

e garden filled the air, mingling with the crisp scent of autumn leaves. Around her, the estate's workers had gathered in a small crowd, offering farewells to the Count an

rity. "You have all served us well, and we leave this place in your capable hands," he said, his voice clear but devo

e of Lady Katherine, who stood near the mansion's entrance, her expression unreadable as she watched the proceedings.

of the sleep that would soon overtake her. Elza allowed herself a small, satisfied smile, one that was both genuine and wickedly triumphant. The w

red to herself as the carriage door cl

er. The carriage began to move, its wheels clattering rhythmically on the cobblestone road. The estate g

ing her with a mixture of curiosity and expectation

re than ever," she replied, her voice strong. "I will n

ight of her old life lifting, leaving her light and fre