CHAPTER EIGHT: THE HOUSE BY THE SEA
William asked his steward to bring the household travel schedule into the library.
Mr. Ames stood beside the desk while the duke examined the dates.
No journey had been arranged for Clara.
Mrs. Vale was summoned and questioned about the child’s claim.
“I merely suggested that a change of air might benefit her,” she said.
“You told her she would be sent away without my knowledge,” William replied.
“Children misunderstand.”
Selena sat near the window and said nothing.
She had agreed to remain only because Clara had asked her not to leave until the matter was settled.
William placed the schedule on the desk.
“Did you tell her that?”
Mrs. Vale lifted her chin.
“I may have warned her that disobedience could make travel necessary.”
“You threatened a child with separation from her home.”
“I was attempting to improve her conduct.”
“Then your methods have failed.”
The governess’s face flushed.
“Your sister was too indulgent with the girl.”
William stood.
“You will not speak of my sister in that manner.”
Mrs. Vale glanced at Selena.
“I see that Miss Montley has already persuaded you to distrust your own household.”
“Miss Montley asked a question,” William said.
“You have supplied the answer.
”
He instructed Mr. Ames to arrange for Mrs. Vale to leave Oak Haven that afternoon with her wages and a reference limited to her dates of employment.
Mrs. Vale departed without looking at Selena.
When the door closed, William remained standing beside his desk.
“I should have noticed sooner,” he said.
“Yes,” Selena replied.
He turned toward her, surprised by the absence of reassurance.
“You do not intend to tell me that I did my best?”
“I do not know whether you did.”
William looked down at the travel schedule.
“Neither do I.”
Selena rose.
“Clara needs to hear that she is staying here.
”
“I will tell her.”
“She needs to hear it from you, not from a servant.”
William nodded and went to find his niece.
Selena watched him leave, relieved that he had not mistaken honesty for disrespect.
