Page 41

“Because I never imagined you would go to so much trouble for me.”

“It really isn’t any trouble.”

“Still, it is far more effort than anyone has ever gone to on my behalf, so thank you. It truly does mean quite a lot to me.”

“It-” he cut himself off, shaking his head. “I am glad you’re happy.”

“I truly am.”

The rest of the meal was a bit awkward, both of them trapped in their own swirling thoughts too much to say anything.

Rebecca couldn’t believe how lucky she was! Perhaps they could grow to care about each other after all.

When the meal ended, they both got to their feet, staring at each other for a moment. Rebecca was the one to move first.

“I hope you won’t think I’m being ungrateful, but I’m quite tired. Would you mind terribly if I retired for the night? I am so sorry to cut our evening short.”

“If you are tired, then you should go rest. There will be plenty of time for us to see each other tomorrow.”

“Thank you, Your Grace.”

He hesitated. “Perhaps it would be best if you called me William.”

“Only if you call me Rebecca.”

“I think that can be arranged.” He smiled. “Good night, Rebecca.”

“Good night, William, and thank you again for all of this.”

Then she slipped from the room.

CHAPTER 10

When Rebecca stepped inside of her room, she was surprise to find she wasn’t alone. A young woman only a few years younger than her was over by the wardrobe.

She dropped into a curtsy when she saw Rebecca. “Good evening, your grace. I hope you had a lovely evening.”

“I did, thank you, but can I ask what you’re doing in here?”

“My name is Mary. Mrs. Anderson sent me up. She said you were in need of a lady’s maid.”

“Oh that was very kind of her, but I will be all right. Neither of you needed to go to so much trouble.”

“It’s no trouble, ma’am. Shall I help you prepare for bed?”

Rebecca shifted on her feet, nerves gathering. “I suppose.”

She had never had a maid prepare her for bed and wasn’t entirely sure what to expect.

Rebecca stood there as Mary helped her out of her dress and into a nightshirt.

“There,” Mary smiled. “Now, why don’t you go take a seat at the dressing table and I’ll be over in a moment to help you with your hair.”

Rebecca wanted to tell her that wasn’t necessary, that she didn’t need to go to all the trouble, but she didn’t want to seem ungrateful, especially after Mrs. Carter went to so much trouble to select Mary.

So she simply took her seat and waited. A moment later, Mary’s hands were in her hair, gently pulling pins free and brushing through her locks until they were smooth.

“How do you like your hair while you sleep? Do you put it in a braid or something else?”