The Letter From Briarton Park by Sarah E. Ladd

Author:Sarah E. Ladd
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Published: 2022-03-02T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 24

Had she heard him correctly? Cassandra could almost laugh with relief.

In that single second Mr. Warrington’s offer hoisted a great weight from her shoulders. Finally, something positive glimmered, something secure and concrete—a development that would propel her in the right direction.

She could not respond quickly enough. “Y-yes! I should like that very much.”

He nodded, but his expression remained customarily stoic. “Excellent. If it is agreeable to you, I will take tomorrow to get things situated, and then you may come by early the next day to get settled at Briarton Park. I see no cause to delay.”

With every new word spoken, her nerves flailed wildly within her. “That is wonderful. Thank you, sir. I am certain that—”

Her words were interrupted. She lifted her gaze slightly over Mr. Warrington’s shoulder to see Mr. North approaching them, his expression unusually severe. “Oh, Mr. North. Forgive me. I did not see you there.”

“I’ve been looking for you! I thought I’d quite lost you.” Mr. North moved closer, giving Mr. Warrington a brief nod in greeting. “The hour is growing quite late, and the rain has started, I’m afraid. Mrs. Martin desires to return home. So as much as I hate to put an end to the festivities, I do feel the time has come to see you ladies home.”

A pang of disappointment shot through her. She cast a glance up at Mr. Warrington, wishing there was some way he could intervene. She wanted to stay with him. To continue discussing their plans.

But it was impossible, of course.

Besides, in a matter of two days all would begin. Her new role. Her new pupils. Something to focus on outside of herself.

“Very well then.” She pivoted back to Mr. Warrington. “Thank you, sir. I look forward to all we’ve discussed.”

“Until later then.” Mr. Warrington bowed.

Cassandra took the vicar’s proffered arm and followed him as he led her from the quiet and privacy of the corridor back to the main drawing room.

When they were out of earshot, Mr. North whispered quite close, “It is none of my business, I know, but I could not help but overhear. Mr. Warrington mentioned something about ‘later.’ Do you have upcoming business with him?”

She saw no reason to keep it secret. “I do. Rather exciting news, at least on my part. I’ve been engaged as governess to care for his daughters.”

She expected him to offer a bit of congratulations, but none came. In fact, his expression turned almost adverse.

She lowered her gaze to the ground as they walked. She was learning his ways—learning his moods and his dispositions. “I take it from your silence that you do not approve.”

He hesitated. “It is not my place to approve or disapprove, but do you think it wise to tie yourself to a family—a position—so early in your search?”

“What could be wrong with it? It is employment, and quite necessary. Nothing more.”

“You will need help from others,” he cautioned, his tone worrisome. “There are still many questions to be answered, and people, whether you like it or not, are starting to talk.

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