Chapter 49 A Flutter of the Heart

Eleanor gave Madeline a tour of the house—walking through the courtyard, showing her the rare greenery in the garden, and introducing the antiques in the living room. She recounted every little story connected to the house, hoping to help Madeline grow familiar with it and come to see it as a home of her own. Madeline listened patiently, nodding from time to time. Eleanor's enthusiasm quietly kindled a gentle warmth in her heart. At the end of the tour, Eleanor suddenly had an idea. She took Madeline by the hand and pulled her toward the stairs. "Come," she said. "There's somewhere I want to show you." With that, she led Madeline into a bedroom. The room was simply yet tastefully decorated, dominated by monochrome tones that gave off a cool, austere air. It clearly belonged to Samuel. "Mrs. Jameson Senior, isn't this Mr. Jameson's room?" Madeline asked, slightly taken aback. Before she could step back out, Eleanor stopped her. "It is. But there's no harm in taking a look, rig