“I do not trust him,” Emily murmured.
“Neither do I,” Victoria agreed. She would have to be careful when around him in the future. She might not know exactly what she wanted, but she feared he was not going to stop until he got it.
Chapter 35
It was the end of the week. Edward was supposed to return later that day. Victoria was nervous to see him again. She did not know what to expect from him. How would he treat her? Would he act as though nothing had happened between them? Would he treat her as the help again?
She did not think she could handle such a thing.
Trying to distract herself, she spent the morning busying herself with Lily. They went through their morning routine and were in her playroom when Emily came to find them. She rushed into the room, her face flushed and her eyes wide with excitement.
“There you are!” she declared when she spotted Victoria. “I have been looking everywhere for you.”
Startled, Victoria shook her head and said, “What is it? What is wrong?”
“Nothing is wrong,” Emily insisted. “I have some interesting news, actually, and I am excited to tell you.”
“Oh, really?” Victoria replied, curious. “Do tell!”
“James has just informed me he has to return to the Caribbean in a few weeks’ time and will need to stay for a year this time,” Emily explained. “I have decided to go with him and take Lily.”
Victoria’s breath rushed past her lips, and her stomach sank. She fought not to let her distress show, but the idea of Emily and Lily leaving was a devastating one. Not only would she be released from her position, but she would be losing her dear friend.
Forcing a smile, she said, “That is indeed exciting…I am happy for you.”
Emily gave her a knowing smile and chuckled. “Victoria, I know what you are thinking right now, but let me put your mind at ease. We would like you to come with us if you would like. Continue to be Lily’s nanny and my companion. What do you think?”
Victoria gasped. “Really? You want to take me with you to the Caribbean?”
She never would have imagined such an opportunity would be possible for her. Travelling had always been a dream, but the Caribbean was not even a place she would fantasize about, as it seemed so far-fetched that she would ever go there.
Yet, here was Emily, making this once-in-a-lifetime offer. Victoria could not form words for long moments as she absorbed Emily’s words.
With a chuckle, Emily asked, “I know it is a big decision. If you need some time to think about it….”
“Yes, I will go,” Victoria blurted.
Emily raised her brows in surprise. “Just like that? Are you certain? Really, you can take your time….”
“No, I know what I want,” Victoria insisted. “I want to go. I would be thrilled to go.”
Emily appeared delighted. “That is so wonderful! I am so happy you want to come along. I must ask, though, if you really want to leave…you know….”
Victoria frowned. “Leave what?”
Her family? She would certainly miss them, but what difference did it make if she was in England, unable to see them, or the Caribbean? She would still have her position and would still be able to send them money and help them.
“Edward,” Emily softly answered. “Are you certain you want to leave Edward?”
Victoria froze and blinked, taken aback.
“Why…why would I not wish to leave Ed…Lord Harford?” she stammered.
Emily gave her a small grin and shook her head. “I see. Why indeed? Never mind, then. I am thrilled that you wish to come with us. James and I will make the arrangements.”
Victoria smiled and nodded. “That sounds excellent. Thank you again for giving me this opportunity.”
“Of course,” Emily replied with a laugh. “Tory, you are like family to us. We wouldn’t dream of leaving you behind…unless that was what you wanted.”
