His Lady Mistress

Elizabeth Rolls127derstanding came. She had given herself, body, heart andsoul—only to disgust him. You never thought he loved you.You didn’t expect that.But she had longed for his affection. She thought he hadoffered that. That in making love to her as he had... Hethought he was taking a mistress. A whore.The carpet blurred and a chill stole through her. Dimly sherealised that Lady Arnsworth was still speaking. None of itpenetrated. Only the dreadful knowledge that she had foreveralienated Max. She had hoped that in time he would forgiveher for what she had done.‘I hope I have made myself quite clear, Niece.’Vaguely she realised that a response was necessary.‘Yes. Thank you. Most clear.’ She stood up and manageda wobbly smile. ‘If you will excuse me, Lady Arnsworth, Ishall retire now. It has been such a long day and I am quiteweary.’A cold nod was the only reply.‘Goodnight then, ma’am. And thank you for your advice.’That stung, but after all, no woman liked seeing her familyembroiled in a shocking scandal. She rose and headed for thedoor.‘The bell pull is by the chimney.’Verity turned and looked. So it was. ‘Yes?’ Had she forgottensomething else? Some appalling shibboleth that wouldset the household by the ears?‘You should ring for Henty. She will conduct you to yourchamber.’Verity blanched. She had spent the previous two days beingshown over the house by the housekeeper, Mrs Henty.The woman’s thinned mouth and cold answers had made heropinion of the master’s bride unmistakable.‘That’s quite all right, ma’am. I dare say she has enoughto do without that. She pointed out my chamber yesterday.I’m sure I can find it.’ She forced another smile. ‘Thank you.’She closed the door behind her carefully and stood breathing