Lady Harrowden replied firmly, “But she was trained as a lady, and that is something you still lack. It is time to rectify your upbringing.”

Rebecca shot a malicious glance at Selena. “She was trained as a lady, but I don't know that she always behaves as one."

Selena's heart beat in her throat.

Lady Harrowden continued as if there had been no interruption. "And that is why you will not be presented this Season. It is only two months away, and there is not enough time to prepare you. You will be presented next Season. This year, you will remain at the dower house with me, and you will work on your French, embroidery, your diction, your posture, deportment, your manners, and—”

With such an artillery of disciplines, it did not surprise Selena in the least that Rebecca leapt to her feet. "You wish to make me a prisoner here! And that is just what I won’t accept. I am independently wealthy, and I can do as I wish."

"Women can never do as they wish," Lady Harrowden said. "Now, you’ll do as I wish because I am your guardian, and when you get married, you will do as your husband wishes. That is the way of the world."

Rebecca stopped and put one hand on her hip. "Yes, but a husband I can twist around my finger."

Selena held her breath as Lady Harrowden gathered herself in indignation. “At the rate you are going, girl, you will not find a husband. No one will have you, for you are much too fast for your own good.”

“Excuse me, my lady. I must change out of my riding habit.” Rebecca turned without another glance and left. It was incredible to Selena that she could so disregard the respect due to the countess. It seemed Rebecca had been born without any sense of what was morally right.

There was silence as the door shut behind Rebecca, and Selena remained where she was. She was sure the countess wished to speak to her.

“That girl.” Lady Harrowden’s face was pinched in displeasure. “I am tempted to cast her off. I shall not do so, though she sorely deserves it.” She sighed audibly, then looked at Selena, a martial light to her eyes.

“Sir Lucius has come through at last, and although my accounts are in order—apart from a few changes that will need to be put in place—the Harrowden estate does not appear to be.” Lady Harrowden turned to Selena, who was struck by how feeble she suddenly looked.

“There is a scandal brewing,” Lady Harrowden continued. “Richard has put the tenants at risk with foolish schemes and shameful gambling. And now this ward of mine is completely out of control. Something must be done to scotch any hint of scandal where she is concerned. I am counting on you to keep her in line." Lady Harrowden turned her head, signaling an end to the conversation. Selena let out her breath silently.