“Boeph. You ask too many questions.” She selected one of Millie’s new purchases. “Yes,this one.”
It was a very pretty white dress with lavender flowers embroidered into the hem. Millie had bought it with George in mind. “I was saving it for a special occasion.” Millie argued.
“This is a special occasion; I’m resigning. I want you to come with me when I tell theold man.”
“Okay, but we don’t really need a nice dress.”
“Yes, we do. If you look nice, he won’t shout. He likes you.”
Millie put the dress on and followed Joanie out of the house. As they rounded the corner, she saw Du Montfort in his wheelchair by the water-lily pool. Liam was standing next to him. Mrs B, Ann, and the rest of the staff came over from the other side.
“Joanie? What’s going on?” Millie asked as they reached thelily pool.
Liam, looking excited, offered his hand, but Du Montfort ignored it. Instead he grasped the arm of his chair and levered himself up into a standing position. Millie gasped, and she wasn’t theonly one.
The old man looked proud and emotional. He waved away Liam’s arm for support. “Millie, lend me yourshoulder.”
He held up his weaker left arm, and Millie stood in position as he placed his arm heavily over hershoulders.
He stood tall and looked down on her like a dignified uncle. Then he cleared his throat and everyone fell silent. “We have some announcements.” He looked around, commandingattention.
“Our chef, Joanie, has taken a new job in Jersey at the Adelphi Hotel. She leaves us in two weeks, and we should all wish her the very bestof luck.”
Everyone cheered, and Joanie promised to send them special discounts for a stay at the posh hotel.
Mrs B uncorked the Champagne and poured glasses for everyone, but Du Montfort held up his hand to stop themdrinking.
“But this isn’t the only staff change.” He paused for effect, and Millie’s heart fell.No, please don’t let anyone else leave. Then he’ll hate me if I join the exodus.
“Our lovely Millie.” He beamed down at her. “Will no longer be my assistant.”
Millie’s mouthfell open.
“She’s been with us for five months. That’s plenty.” He leaned towards her, and she moved her head closer as he spoke into her ear. “Because you can’t be my PAandmy daughter-in-law at the same time.”
Millie’s heart hammered in her chest, and blood rushed intoher face.
“I don’t know how you’ve done it, but you’ve tamed that sonof mine.”
She looked at him, trying to understand.
He winked. “Did you think I hadn’t noticed?” he leaned closer, so only she could hear. “You think me blind? Or stupid?”
“No, it’s just—”
“Just nothing. My son’s been trying to recruit a new assistant for me. I found out from his office he’s been to Antwerp,” Du Montfort said. “There’s only one reason to go the diamond capital of the world.” He beamed at her, his eyes shining. “I’m sorry to spoil his surprise, but I’m thrilled. I couldn’t have asked for a better daughter.” He kissedher cheek.
Millie wantedto giggle.
“I’ve another gift for you. It’s inside.”
Her heart was overflowing. “Thank you, there’sno need.”
“There is every need. I’m a selfish old man. I want you to stay here and to persuade my son to stay here, too. So I’m giving you something to keepyou here.”
Straightening up, he raised his voice for everyone else to hear. “In her time here, she has become a beloved member of this household, and she will always be beloved, even if she no longer opens my post and puts up withmy moods.”
Everyone cheered.
