Page 18 of The Good Fortune of Miss Robbins

“That is very sad.”

“Did you ever have a pet, Miss Robbins?”

“No, sir. Pets weren’t allowed at Mrs. Southey’s school.”

“And would you have liked to have a pet?”

“I should think so. It seems as if any child would enjoy having a pet.”

“Yes, which is why I’ve decided to get one for Samuel and Annabelle. What do you think?”

“It’s a splendid idea.”

“I was thinking a small dog, one for each of them. Or should I only get one dog and let them share in taking care of it? Which would be best?”

“I don’t know. Either idea should work just fine.”

“I see you are smiling. You like the idea of a pet, then?”

“Yes, sir. I think the children will enjoy taking care of a pet.”

“And you shall enjoy having the dogs around?”

“Well, yes, I believe so.” I couldn’t help smiling. He looked so pleased. And I did feel a lift in my heart as I imagined what it would be like having a pet around.

“What kind of dog should it be?” Lord Brookhaven looked thoughtful. “Perhaps a long-haired dog, soft and eager to be petted and played with? Or a big animal, a mastiff or Great Dane that will watch over the children when they play.”

“That is for you to decide, as their guardian, whether or not you want them to have a smaller, more manageable pet or a watchdog.”

“You are correct, Miss Robbins. I wanted a pet for them, not a canine guardian. Quite right.” He thoughtfully puffed on his pipe. “There is another reason I was hoping to see you this evening. I wanted to tell you that I’m having a small house party, and I would like you to join the rest of the guests.”

“Me, sir?”

“Yes, you. Your conversation will be far more interesting than anyone else’s. My aunt, Lady Derringer, will be helping to host it. She will arrive soon and will oversee everything, including the making of a few dresses for you. The dressmaker of Lady Derringer’s choosing will take your measurements.”

I was at a loss for how to reply. It was so irregular. Wasn’t it? To invite one’s governess to a house party, and to provide clothing for her? Certainly the governess was sometimes allowed to attend a ball, especially if it was a large ball given by her employer, but a small house party?

“Sir, I’m certain I can have little in common with your guests at such a party. I am only the governess.”

“What of it? You are an intelligent woman, are you not? You are a morally upright, free young woman, capable of conversation and dancing. And you will enjoy meeting Lady Derringer. I believe the two of you will get along quite well.”

“I would not belong—”

“You shall belong as well as anyone.” His brows lowered and his eyes were piercing. “No one will dare question my wish for you to be there.”

He stared past me. Finally, he said, “I intend that you will enjoy yourself. I do not have parties often, but . . .”

Leaves rustled in a bush nearby and a dog trotted toward us, followed by a man with a rifle under his arm.

“Thompson.” Lord Brookhaven nodded at the man.

“My lord.”

“Fine evening for a walk. Finding any pheasant?”

“Some.”

“Miss Robbins, this is Thompson. He’s the gamekeeper for the estate and the best shot in the county. Thompson, this is Miss Robbins, the new governess.”