In the end, Selena did not ring the bell but reached behind her back and undid the laces the best she could. Then she pulled her shift over her head, replacing it with a fresh one, and climbed into the bed, wiggling her bare legs rapidly until the cold sheets started to feel warmer. She stilled, drowsily staring at the fire, which gave off warmth and a cheerful glow. In this instant, Selena could almost imagine finding contentment in her life here. For the first time in two days, it was with pleasure rather than worry that she drifted off to sleep.

The next morning, Selena woke when the maid brought in the hot water and went over to turn the burning logs. This time she was not going to miss out on getting help.

“Good morning, Hazel,” she said. "Would you mind helping me into my dress?”

“Right away, miss. I’m not trained as a lady’s maid, though." Hazel dropped the poker and came to the side of the bed where Selena stood. The maid began to tug the strings hanging from her stays.

"Never mind about the training,” Selena replied briskly. "I am here as a companion, and I will not be overly particular.”

When Selena was properly dressed, she asked Hazel whether Mrs. Randall might be spared to take her to visit the house once she had eaten. The mounds of snow outside did not recommend her to a walk, and she thought it best to set out at once to familiarize herself with the house.

"I believe Mrs. Randall is aware of it, miss. I will just see when she is available and will send word to the breakfast room.” Hazel dipped a curtsy before leaving, and Selena turned to the dressing mirror and pinned her hair in a simple knot she knew would have to do. Her position did not require elegant hair, which was a bit of a shame, because with curling papers, she knew her hair was one of her best assets.

Selena examined herself in the small glass, trying to assess how she felt—trying to judge how she looked and perhaps what impression she might have made on the masculine, sardonic Sir Lucius, who had a surprisingly tender side tucked away. She frowned at the last thought that had crept in. Ridiculous girl.

Once downstairs, a footman directed Selena to the breakfast room, where she ate in silence. Afterwards, she entered the corridor and turned to where she thought there might be stairs leading to the kitchen. Perhaps the housekeeper could be found there. Selena passed an open door in the corridor when the sound of a gentleman's voice reached her from inside the room.

“Miss—Miss! Might I help you with something?"

Selena retraced her steps until she was once again looking through the door of a library where a young man stood, dressed in the first stare of fashion. The stylish clothing leaned toward extravagance, and although his face was handsome enough, his lips had a petulant air to them. He raised his eyebrows as he took in her appearance, and heat crept up Selena’s cheeks. She had traded yesterday’s gown with the muddy hem for her only change from the portmanteau, which was a dull brown, cotton-print dress that had begun to fade. Even her best gown would not have done for this meeting.