Selena frowned. It was amazing how quickly one lost such a thing as the art to converse when one no longer frequented Society.

Lord Harrowden stood and walked to the settee close to where she was sitting. “I have no doubt you will do just that, but I still say that this will be a dull piece of work for you.” The lack of space between them made Selena tense, and she faced forward.

He sat and leaned his chin on his hand as he stared at her. “If you'd like, I can squire you to some of the local events when my aunt has retired for the night, so you may amuse yourself. If you attend to her when she needs you, she can have nothing to say about what you do on your own time.”

Selena could think of nothing that appealed to her less than spending more time with Lord Harrowden. He searched her face and figure in a way that seemed to take possession of it, and it repulsed her. Selena strove to answer in a way that would not give offense.

"You are very kind, my lord. However, it would not be proper for me to go anywhere unchaperoned."

He laughed softly, his expression incredulous. “Miss Lockhart, I think you will soon have to change your tune as you learn what it is to be a companion. You must wait on the pleasure of those who employ you. Do not expect to have the same consideration that would be shown to a woman of more means."

The insult sent an angry flush to her cheeks. It could not go unanswered, but what could she say? Selena had seen firsthand how little consideration a woman of small means was given. In the end, she could only struggle with her own impotence as she had no weapons in her arsenal that could constitute a fitting reply.

The countess entered the room, and Selena turned to her with relief.

"Richard, you are the very person I wish to see." Lady Harrowden took quick steps, leaning on a wooden cane that she sometimes used.

Lord Harrowden got to his feet with a show of reluctance as his aunt advanced into the room. “Why, that is a change," he said. "For you always seem to be at great pains to avoid me."

"Some conversations cannot be avoided," the countess said grimly. She turned to Selena. "Have you had him frank the letter yet?"

Selena shook her head.

“Please do so. Richard, I may as well inform you that we will be welcoming someone into this household—or at least welcoming her here until I can move to the dower house. My ward will be living with me."

Lord Harrowden raised his brows. “Your ward? I was not aware you had one. She must have a suitable trust fund if you will concern yourself with her and inform me of her stay. After all, you did not tell me Miss Lockhart would be coming.”