Page 43 of A Stronger Impulse

But Lady Catherine’s eyes only narrowed, suspicion in her gaze. “I am shocked and astonished! Explain how you would know anything of my nephew? Sneak! Spy! Are you in the earl’s pay? This is how you show your gratitude after my many kindnesses towards you? Deceitful, despicable girl!”

Stalking out of the parlour into the entryway, she shoved the footman aside and threw open the massive front door herself, pointing to the street. “I know how to act. Out!”

“Aunt, please, no!” Georgiana cried.

Mrs Taylor gasped, her expression appalled.

Lizzy rose to her feet. “I would retrieve my things.”

Lady Catherine brandished her cane as if a weapon. “Begone at once! Lest I call a constable!”

She would do it,Lizzy realised. She would have me arrested, just because she could.

With a final apologetic glance at Georgiana, head held high, she walked out the door, only flinching a little when it slammed shut behind her.