“There isn’t much that I need.”
“If you were not in need of funds then why did you become a governess?”
Charlotte sucked in a breath. How had Victor determined the income from lessons was more than simply teaching Melcombe’s nieces how to paint?
“I knew that you had been Melcombe’s governess before I arrived.”
Her eyes widened. “How?”
“Percy mentioned it to me.”
Charlotte nearly groaned.
“Why?”
“The Melcombes were in need,” she answered. “I had always assumed that I would become a governess. At least I had before my father arranged my marriage. I found it as an opportunity to learn if it was something I would enjoy, which I did, and to add funds to the coffers.”
“The funds from education, that is what Melcombe paid you?”
“Yes,” she answered.
As much as Charlotte had wanted to keep these secrets because she feared Victor’s judgement, it was a relief to finally have everything out in the open. She wouldn’t need to hide anymore.
“Did you resign that position?” he asked with more of a hint of curiosity than demand.
“Temporarily,” she answered honestly. “I was not certain how long you intended to remain in Willanton. If it was only to be for a short time, then I would return to the position. If you intend to remain longer, then Lord and Lady Melcombe may advertise for a replacement.”
The side of his mouth tipped. “I can assure you, Charlotte, I have no intention of leaving anytime soon. Not when I am learning so much about my wife.”
Her stomach sank. He may have smiled, but Victor was angry. Not that she could blame him. She had been dishonest.
“I can assume that the income from TT is actually Turner Textiles.”
“Yes.”
He nodded and hummed. “It has done well. Nearly half of the investment has been returned.”
She said nothing because he could read the figures for himself.
“Except, those funds were returned to your account and not the household accounts. Was I to be only the name on the contract whereas you were the only one to benefit?”
“No. I couldn’t add those amounts to a ledger you would see because then you would ask questions. I will happily give you those funds.”
“No, then I would be taking from you.” His tone was bitter. “Your father has given me enough. Once your investment has been paid in full, then the earnings can come to me.”
“Of course,” she agreed.
He hated her. Charlotte always feared this would come to be.
“Another income of note is ‘Paintings’.”
“Yes.”
“The sum is impressive.”
“I had not expected it to be so, but yes.”
He looked at her. “Where have you been selling paintings, Charlotte?”
