Chapter 3 #2
The butler stopped, rapped lightly on a door already ajar and stepped inside, whilst Rose waited in the hall, her stomach knotting itself repeatedly over and over until it felt as if she might cast up her accounts.
Telling herself to breathe slowly and deeply, she did so repeatedly until her pulse slowed a fraction.
“If you please, Miss Bennett.” The butler stepped out again and then gestured for her to go into the room, meaning that Rose’s heart instantly threw itself into a panicked rhythm all over again. Drawing in a deep breath, she lifted her chin and stepped inside.
The room itself was a sheen of gold and emerald with silk panels decorating the walls and furniture arranged with careful symmetry.
A grand pianoforte occupied one corner, with arrangements of white roses and fern fronds placed in notable situations within the room itself. Rose allowed herself a quick glance around the room before centring her gaze on a lady seated by the window, her eyebrow lifted slightly as Rose came in.
Silver threaded gracefully through her dark hair, her blue eyes intelligent but assessing.
There was no warmth in her expression, no welcome—just as she had found lacking from the butler—but Rose quickly reminded herself that this was to be expected.
After all, she was nothing more than a governess, held no importance with anyone and could no longer claim the same social standing she once had.
“You are Miss Bennett?” The duchess remained seated, her hands clasped lightly in her lap.
Rose curtsied properly. “Yes, Your Grace. Thank you for receiving me.”
“You have arrived promptly. That is good.” The duchess tilted her head, studying Rose with unnerving precision and Rose, reminding herself that she was now no longer a lady with a title, dropped her gaze to the floor.
“My son is the Duke of Camberley, as I am sure you understand. He resides in this house, and I reside in the dower house. However, given his many responsibilities, I am assisting him in finding the right governess for his son.”
Rose nodded. “Yes, Your Grace.”
“Might I ask if you have any experience in educating children?”
Swallowing hard, Rose dropped her shoulders.
“In truth, Your Grace, this would be my first employment. Over the years, however, I have aided and assisted in instructing my younger relatives, particularly regarding French, history, and literature.” That much was true, certainly, for whenever her mother’s distant relations had come to call, Rose had been expected to entertain the children as best she could.
“I see.” The duchess let out a small sigh.
“I am not convinced that my grandson would be suitable for you, Miss Bennett.” She lifted one eyebrow but then spoke in French, inquiring as to whether or not Rose had found her education profitable.
Rose answered in fluent French, stating that she had always valued education highly and could think of nothing more valuable than being able to pass on her knowledge.
The duchess smiled.
“You speak well,” she said, as Rose kept her gaze low. “Please, sit down, Miss Bennett and allow me to continue my questions.”
Rose did as was asked and the duchess proceeded with further inquiries as regarded philosophy, mathematics, practical accomplishments and expectations as regarded the discipline of her grandson.
Rose answered carefully, taking time to consider each question before she answered it.
Her years of instruction from exceptional tutors had, as Margaret had suggested, proven valuable indeed for the duchess’ expression slowly warmed.
“Well, Miss Bennett, I must say that you conduct yourself remarkably well. Your manner is calm and your answer careful. I appreciate a young lady able to think quickly but with consideration.” She shifted slightly, looking to her right as she let out another sigh.
“My grandson, however, may not value that as I do.”
Rose remained silent, perched on the edge of her chair and wondering if the duchess was about to offer her something that would not only secure her presence here in the house but could lead to a settled future.
“To be frank, Miss Bennett, my grandson has driven away three governesses in the last month, solely due to his unruly behavior.”
Something sank, deep and heavy, into Rose’s stomach. “I see.”
“I cannot promise you a calm, quiet child who is diligent and obedient—or even willing to listen!” the duchess continued, her eyes now sharp as she gazed steadily at Rose, no doubt looking for her response.
“There is nothing straightforward about this position, Miss Bennett. I do hope that you understand that.”
Rose lifted her gaze and looked back at the duchess directly.
“If I might speak truthfully, Your Grace, I have found there to be very little in my life that is simple or easy. Yet, I have overcome and continue to do so.” Her voice faltered, but she took a breath and then continued, seeing the duchess watching her closely.
“I fully expect to be able to do the very same in this situation.”
The duchess blinked rapidly, surprising Rose with the sudden display of emotion, though it was pulled back quickly.
“It may be that my grandson finds something of a support in you, Miss Bennett,” the duchess said softly.
“You can understand the pain he endures at the loss of his mother. Perhaps you will reach him in a way that others cannot.” Taking in a breath, she set her shoulders and offered Rose a small smile.
“The position is yours, Miss Bennett—for as long as you can endure it.”
Hope rose unexpectedly in her heart, making her back straighten and her eyes widen. It was an emotion long forgotten, and it took her a few moments to compose herself, to keep the tears from forming in her eyes.
“If you wish, I can have Eliza show you to the schoolroom and to your quarters.” The duchess smiled. “Do you wish to accept the position of governess to the Duke of Camberley’s son?”
A smile spread slowly across Rose’s face as she nodded. “Yes,” she said, her voice hoarse with relief. “Yes, I should like that very much.”