Page 56

Theran cared for Purity.

But only as his daughter’s governess—possibly former governess now. Purity wasn’t foolish enough to read more into his words. Even if in her heart, he’d secretly come to mean something more to her over these past weeks.

How could she have done the unthinkable?

Come to care for Theran?

To love him?

Hadn’t Mrs. Shepherd warned all of her pupils against that very thing?

Perhaps lessons and exercises on guarding one’s heart and emotions ought to be taught at Haven House and Academy for the Enrichment of Young Women.

Purity shook her head and cringed.

What must Mrs. Rutland and Theran’s brother think?

From their responses, they’d been outraged at Miss Sommerville’s and her mother’s behavior. That, unfortunately, didn’t mean they might not give some credence to the accusations. What was more, the accusations had been made in front of children.

Had those harpies no bounds?

Closing her eyes, she rested her head against the chair’s tall back. Hiding like a child was immature. She’d have to return and face everyone—hold her head high while she waited to learn her fate. Theran knew Miss Sommerville lied, but could he convince his family?

At least she had Lady Ceddes’s letter of reference, and Chasity said she’d recommend her for a position at Balderbrook’s Institution for Genteel Ladies.

God would provide.

Yes, He always had.

Nonetheless, if Purity was forced to move on, her heart would remain behind with the darling little girl she was fast coming to love as her own—and Bernadine’s father, whom she had come to love even though it was wrong and she should’ve known better.

I’ve only just learned that Balderbrook’s Institution for Genteel Ladies has restructured the London school, and only one instructor position remains. If you are interested in applying, I urge you to do so at your earliest convenience. I know your tenure with the Ceddes is at an end soon.

My invitation to stay with me is always open too.

~Chasity Terramier,

in a short note to Purity Mayfield

Gamekeeper’s Cottage

Trenthurst House Estate

A short while later

Theran caught a flash of crimson between the alder trees.

Purity.

Why had she run from him?

Hadn’t he promised that he wouldn’t let anything happen to her? That he’d protect her? Even from despicable false accusations? From vindictive women bent on her downfall?

Mayhap she hadn’t believed him.

He slowed his pace, realizing Purity had spotted the abandoned gamekeeper’s cottage. It hadn’t been used for at least twenty years.

Purity had never had anyone to champion her before. Had always had to rely on herself.