They reached a shabby parlor with seating aplenty and tea service already sitting on a low table. “Oh, this is lovely, Rebecca. Or, it will be with a few modifications.” Gabby strolled to the windows and looked out at a lush garden, or would be lush, come spring. She strolled back to a floral sofa of sturdy brocade and took a wing-back chair across from Mabel and Rebecca.
“What sort of things are we to be instructed on? Most women of my station cannot even read. I am more blessed than most, having grown up in the theater where…” Her words trailed off. “My mother was a forward-thinking woman,” she said. Not without a small lift to her chin, pride vibrating from her.
Gabby thought that a good sign.
Without warning, Mabel’s back went stiff. “This is not a—” Her face turned a brilliant scarlet.
Gabby and Rebecca erupted into laughter.
“A brothel?” Rebecca said. “No, Miss Clark. We genuinely wish to help those in need.”
Mabel’s head shook back and forth. “But what of my child? Will I be forced to abort my child?” She sucked in a sharp breath. “Or give him up? I’ve heard of those baby farms. Where women are paid to raise one’s unwanted child. My child will not be unwanted whatever difficulties I may face.” She started to rise.
“You have quite the imagination, Mabel. I suspect that served you well in the theater. Sit down, dear. Her Grace and I will explain all,” Gabby told her.
Rebecca stepped in. “Your child is your own, Miss Clark. As we said, we are here to assist you. If you choose to stay on as an instructor of French and Latin, ’tis a way to earn your keep. Many women in your situation are forced to earn their living on their backs. We, however, would like to ensure that women only do that if they so choose.”
“This makes no sense—forgive me,” she said quickly. “I’ve never heard the like.”
Gabby laughed. “No, I suppose you haven’t.” She grinned. “We are quite unique, aren’t we, Rebecca?”
“Yes, indeed. Now, what of the theater? Will you return?” Rebecca sipped her tea.
Mabel appeared stunned. “Are you saying I may keep my position at the Royale?”
“Of course, if that is what you wish. The decision is entirely up to you.” Gabby poured a cup of tea and handed it to her. “How far along are you?”
“T-two months, Your Grace. It was the only time—” Her eyes filled with tears.
“He forced you. Just like Dinah Darby?” Gabby had suspected as much, but hearing her own thoughts aloud jarred her.
The tears spilled over Mabel’s lashes, yet no words emerged, Mabel’s silence telling the tale.
Gabby quickly moved next to her, took her hands, and squeezed them. “You’ll be safe here, Mabel. No one knows of this house.”
“Lady Huntley makes a valid point, Miss Clark,” Rebecca said softly. “Only she and I know the true purpose of this home—shelter, if you will. It might be safer for you to stay away from Drury Lane. We have all sorts of things planned. And should you choose, and feel up to it, you may assist us in executing those very stratagems. And, offer your own ideas, if you so desire.”
“L-like what?”
Rebecca's hand flitted out. “Education. Duties regarding housekeeping, bookkeeping, teaching, companionship, nannies. Even should you decide to go back into the arts… which is strictly up to you, as we mentioned, our purpose is to open the doors to those young women who wish to fulfill broader wishes than others’ expectations.”
“This house is intended as a safe haven,” Gabby told her. “It will not be a home where young women may bring their lovers. But rather to serve as a place for one to get back on one’s feet. And if that someone has something of herself to give back, then all the better.”
“Do you think you’d be comfortable here, Miss Clark?”
Again, tears filled Mabel’s eyes, and she couldn’t seem to speak. She nodded and the tears trickled down.
Gabby dug out her lace handkerchief and pressed it in her hand. “You’ll be fine, Mabel. You’ll see.”
“Thank you, milady. I-I don’t know what to say.”
Gabby pulled at the chain about her neck and flicked open the locket. “We must go, Rebecca. I don’t relish an interrogation from Huntley. I fear my husband may be as staid and dry as Ryleigh.”
Rebecca’s eyes rolled with obvious annoyance. But if Gabby knew her older brother… well, enough said on that topic. “You need more faith, Gabby.” She rose from the settee. “I need a minute to speak with Mrs. Keir. I’ll meet you in the foyer.” She turned to Mabel. “I believe you’ll fit in Hope House quite comfortably, my dear. Mrs. Kier will be in to show you to your chamber. Don’t worry over a thing.”
The door closed behind Rebecca and Gabby turned to Mabel. She hesitated only a second, but this was something she’d been thinking on since meeting Dinah Darby. Something she had yet to discuss with Rebecca. Well, there was plenty of time to share her plans with her friend later, and she plunged forward. “There’s one other thing, Mabel. The man who assaulted you. I feel he should cover some of his costs in this matter. I wish to extract payment from him. If you decide to share his name, please send word to me.” Gabby took a card from her reticule and handed it to her. “Anything you confide in me will remain confidential. I will not share the information with the duchess. You may trust me when you feel the time is right. Now, I really must go.”
“Thank you, milady. There is another… one like me. She—” Mabel broke off, tears falling profusely. “I fear for her life. I shall ask her if she would like yours and the duchess’s assistance.”
