The Governess is a Lady (The Darrow Sisters Book 2) by Miers Fiona

Author:Miers, Fiona [Desconocido]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-06-21T22:00:00+00:00

As the weeks progressed, the preparations for the ball were in full swing, transforming Wallingford Manor into a bustling hub of activity. Amidst the flurry of decorations and arrangements, Olivia found herself tasked with a new challenge: teaching Charlotte how to dance. Given the negotiations between father and daughter, it was now a crucial skill for the upcoming event, and one that Charlotte was eager to master.

She hired the same dance teacher who had been engaged for herself and her sisters. Every afternoon, the grand ballroom became their private dance studio, the polished floor reflecting their movements as they practiced step after step. Olivia was patient and encouraging, helping to guiding Charlotte through the basic steps of the English County Dance and Cotillion. They roped in as many staff as were available to make up the long lines of dancers.

Charlotte was a quick learner, her excellent memory and natural enthusiasm making up for any initial clumsiness.

As the days went by, Charlotte’s confidence on the dance floor grew, her steps became polished, and pride in her young pupil swelled Olivia’s chest. The upcoming ball was no longer just a social obligation for either of them. For Charlotte, it was an opportunity to show herself to the society she’d heard so much about, an opportunity for her to shine, to showcase the grace and poise she had learned. For Olivia, it was a reminder of the impact she was having on Charlotte’s life, a tangible measure of the difference she was making as a governess and as a mentor.

A week or so before the ball James made an announcement that caught her off guard.

He interrupted their studies in the schoolroom. “I’ve organised a modiste. She arrives tomorrow to take your and Charlotte’s measurements for gowns.” His tone carried an air of finality that suggested it was not open for discussion.

Charlotte jumped up, clapping her hands in delight. Olivia blinked in surprise. “That is not necessary.” A knot made itself known in her stomach. “I have already sent for gowns from home.”

“No doubt last year’s gowns.” He pursed his lips. “I will not have either of you in anything but the latest fripperies and colours.”

“Really, Your Grace, it’s not appropriate at all.”

James’ gaze fixed on her, intense and unwavering. “I insist,” he said, his eyes holding hers in a way that sent an unexpected shiver through her. There was something in his look that she couldn’t quite decipher, a depth that was both intriguing and unsettling.

Swallowing hard, Olivia found her mouth dry, her usual composure slipping. She nodded, managing a subdued, “Thank you,” even as her mind spun with a mix of emotions. As soon as James agreed to let Charlotte attend for a short while at the beginning of the ball, Olivia knew she would have to attend as well, And James had made it clear that he expected her to stay a good deal longer than Charlotte. The ball, which had seemed like a distant event, was suddenly very real and very imminent.

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