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‘I do have the right. You are bought and paid for. As my wife, I now legally own you... Now you are mine to do with as I see fit and no amount of foot stamping on your part can alterthe fact.’
“I cannot discuss this with you at the moment,” she answered as if he’d spoken the words aloud. “I shall see you later— perhaps,” she added huffily and swept from the room, slamming the door behind her with as much force as she could muster. Pleased she’d left before he saw the tears of anger and disappointment filling her eyes.
Perhaps it was childish to have banged the door shut, but if she was childish, Gregory was impossible!
A footman carrying a tray of silver crossed the hallway in front of her on his way to the dining room, no doubt making preparation for luncheon. Hastily, she brushed the moisture from her cheeks.
“Which direction do I take for the nursery?” she asked, keeping her face averted.
“I’ll show you, milady, just let me set this down first.”
She waited until he returned.
“What is your name?” she questioned.
“John, milady.”
“Thank you, John. Have you been here very long?”
“About seven years,” he told her.
“Have the children been wearing black since their mother died?”
“Yes’m, and the master, too—that is up until he came back with you, milady.”
“I see…” she said thoughtfully.
After that, conversation ceased as they ascended stairway after stairway until they reached the third floor and the girls’ voices bubbled out. They appeared to be chanting the catechism.
John opened a door into a schoolroom. Holly thanked him and stepped inside. The girls stared at her, but her focus was on the tall governess standing in front of the blackboard.
“Can I help you?” The woman smiled.
“I am Lady Caulderbury, the girls’ new stepmother. I wish to spend the rest of the day getting to know them. I hope you will understand that I have to cancel today’s lessons, Miss…?” She spoke as she had heard her mother speak, using an authority beyond her years.
“Of course, milady, the girls will enjoy the break. I fear working six days a week is too much for them. At their age they need time for relaxation. I am Miss Evesham, at your service, milady.” She curtsied.
Holly turned to face the girls and beamed at them. They reminded her of her young stepsisters, being of similar age.
“Come along then,” she said, holding the door wide.
The children turned to their governess for permission. The teacher nodded her assent. The girls rushed over to gather around Holly.
“Where are we going?” Libby enquired.
“First of all, we are going to find you some normal clothes. The time for mourning is long past.”
“Papa said we must wear black to honour our mama,” Kitty explained, sounding dubious.
“You have worn black longer than most adults do for the mourning period. I think it is time for a change. You can remember your mother in so many happier ways, which I shall share with you. Now where are your clothes kept?” she asked.
“Nanny is in charge of what we wear. She says the colour black is practical and serviceable.” Libby stated.
“I see. Well, I suggest you three run along and explain to Nanny that I am coming to discuss your wardrobe with her. Meanwhile, I wish to have a quiet word with Miss Evesham.” She watched as the girls scuttled away then turned back into the schoolroom, closing the door firmly behind her.
“I wondered if you would mind if I asked you to postponethe girls’ education for a short while, just until after Christmas. I want them to have a happy Christmas and start the New Year afresh, leaving some of their grief behind them,” she began.
The governess nodded amicably.
