The Hidden Child by Louise Fein

Author:Louise Fein [Fein, Louise]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781789545357
Publisher: Head of Zeus

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Downstairs, Mrs Bellamy, with her clicking tongue and pursed lips, makes her feelings very clear at the audacity of being asked to prepare a second round of breakfast, and so close to lunch.

‘Exceptional circumstances, Mrs Bellamy, you understand,’ Eleanor mumbles, backing out of the kitchen, and wondering why she is so apologetic to the woman who is in her employ, after all. She speeds away from the kitchen, wincing as she hears poor Alice receiving a tongue-lashing for some minor misdemeanour.

Mrs Faulks is polishing the best silver cutlery in the dining room.

‘Good morning, Mrs Hamilton.’

‘Good morning, Mrs Faulks. I’m awfully delayed this morning. Rose and I talked late into the night, I’m afraid.’

‘Ah, well. I’m sure you had much to talk about, with her working up in town now. You’ll be hungry I expect. Shall I speak with Mrs Bellamy—’

‘Heavens, no. I just asked her. Best not to bother her again.’

‘Righto.’ She puts the polished cutlery back in the dresser drawer. ‘Thought I’d best get these polished up, in case you and Mr Hamilton are planning on having any dinner parties soon. It’s been a while…’

‘Oh. Yes, thank you, Mrs Faulks. What a good idea. We’ve rather got out of the habit of having guests since Jimmy’s arrival, but I suppose…’ She lets her voice drift and there is an awkward silence.

Eleanor sinks into a chair, her head swimming, stomach churning and wonders if she can manage any breakfast at all.

‘I’ll fetch some coffee,’ says Mrs Faulks, and bustles out of the room.

‘And please could you ask Miss Harding to bring Jimmy to me?’ Eleanor calls.

‘Of course,’ Mrs Faulks says, poking her head around the dining-room door. ‘I expect you’re missing the bonnie lad.’ She smiles and disappears again.

It’s time I picked myself up, Eleanor thinks to herself, as she waits. Time I sorted quite a lot of things out.

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