Every word she spoke was like pouring vinegar on a wound. The thought of giving Sir Lucius up and handing him over to someone like Rebecca was painful, though she could not imagine Rebecca’s pursuit would truly prosper. There was every chance that Sir Lucius would not choose Rebecca, and indeed it did not seem as though he would—but Rebecca would not lose her chance because Selena stood in the way.

Selena might still have hope for a future position as a governess. Perhaps one day a family would love her so much they would keep her on, and she would care for even the grandchildren. One thing she knew for certain: she could not marry Sir Lucius. She was not worthy of him. And she could not bear to see the look on his face when at last he decided he had made a mistake—when at last the prejudice that Society, including his own sister, held against her proved too much for him to bear. Even his business dealings would be tainted by association with her. She could not do it.

Rebecca turned without a word and began walking toward the house, and Selena followed. "All this time and he could have kissed me," Rebecca said as she marched forward. “He shows a complete lack of taste if he chooses to pursue you instead. You are so plain.”

Selena trailed behind her. "Do not form a hasty judgment, Rebecca. There is still time for you to make a perfect match.” She did not even pretend that the perfect match was with Sir Lucius. “Come. Lady Harrowden has been requesting your presence, and I did not know what to tell her. She's been waiting to see you these two hours and more."

Rebecca whirled around and faced Selena. "And that was uncomfortable for you, wasn't it? I am glad. I hope every day is uncomfortable for you, and I intend to make it so." She stomped toward the house.

Selena's heart sank even further, but she did not have the energy to argue. Fortunately, Rebecca did go straight to the drawing room, where the countess was sitting and staring in rumination through the window.

Lady Harrowden turned on her, and the peevishness of her tone revealed her mood more than anything. "At last, you’ve seen fit to present yourself. I do not like this notion of you running about whenever your fancy takes you. It is not proper for a young lady."

Rebecca folded her arms, and when Lady Harrowden turned away, rolled her eyes, but she replied meekly enough. "I am sorry, my lady." Selena was weak with relief that Rebecca had not betrayed her—yet.

Lady Harrowden gestured. “Sit, child," she said, and waited until Rebecca sat across from her. Selena took the chair farthest from the fire. "We have much work to do before you are ready to go to London, and I have made a decision. Miss Lockhart here will begin training you.”

“She,” Rebecca interjected. "What can she possibly have to teach me? She is a poor, paid companion."