Page 53 of His Godsent Duchess
Twenty-Three
Christina sat at her desk, quill in hand, her mind focused on the household accounts when a soft knock interrupted her thoughts. Setting the quill aside, she called out, "Come in."
The door opened, and Mrs. Brimsey entered, a bright smile on her face as she curtsied. "Your Grace, I bring good news."
Christina smiled in return, grateful for the cheerful presence of the housekeeper. "Good news is always welcome, Mrs. Brimsey. What is it?"
"The advertisement you posted in the paper to find a new governess has borne fruit. There is a young woman here today, applying for the position."
Christina felt a rush of relief.At last, she thought.Perhaps we shall be rid of Miss Peversly."Where is she now?"
"In the drawing room, Your Grace," Mrs. Brimsey replied, gesturing to the hall.
Before Christina could respond, Carrot sauntered through the ajar door and leaped gracefully onto her desk, scattering a few papers in his wake. Christina chuckled, brushing her fingers over his fur before turning back to Mrs. Brimsey. "Thank you. I'll see to her immediately."
As she made her way toward the drawing room, Christina's thoughts raced. If this Miss Brown proved to be the governess they needed, life would become so much easier—and far more pleasant—without Miss Peversly's stern and overbearing presence.
As she neared the drawing room, the soft sound of Agnes's voice drifted out to meet her. "Where are you from?" Agnes asked, her childlike curiosity evident. "Why are you here at Kilton Castle?"
The young woman's response was soft but polite. "I am from Bath, my lady, and I have come to Kilton Castle to apply for the position of governess."
"And what does a governess do?" Agnes pressed, her voice filled with wonder.
"A governess teaches children their lessons," Miss Brown answered patiently. "I would help you with reading, writing, and perhaps even tell you stories before bed."
Christina smiled as she stepped into the room, but her expression faltered the moment her eyes fell upon Miss Brown. The young woman stood from her chair and curtsied, but it was impossible to ignore the state of her appearance. Her gown was covered in dust, her hair slightly disheveled, and there was a sheen of sweat on her brow as though she had been running or exerting herself.
"Your Grace," Miss Brown greeted, her voice respectful though there was a hint of unease in her eyes. "I am Miss Charlotte Brown."
Christina nodded graciously, though her mind was already racing with questions. "Miss Brown, welcome. I trust you had no trouble finding the castle?"
Miss Brown hesitated, just for a moment, before responding. "No trouble at all, Your Grace."
Christina glanced over the young woman's attire once more, biting her lip as she debated whether or not to comment. After a brief pause, she finally asked, her voice soft, "You seem rather… the worse for wear. Did something happen on your way here?"
Miss Brown's face flushed with embarrassment, and she glanced toward the door, her eyes widening ever so slightly. Christina followed her gaze and tensed when she saw Miss Peversly standing just outside the room, her expression as stony as ever.
Miss Brown quickly recovered and offered a shaky smile. "I… I was directed to use the servants' entrance, Your Grace, and ended up taking several flights of stairs. I got a bit lost, but a kind maid helped me find my way here."
Christina felt a surge of frustration but kept her expression neutral. She glanced at Miss Peversly briefly, considering whether to bring up the obvious interference, but refrained. She had no solid proof of Miss Peversly's involvement, only suspicion. And Victor—practical as always—would dismiss it without evidence.
Instead, Christina turned back to Miss Brown with a warm smile. "Please, sit. Let us proceed with the interview."
Miss Brown sat once more, folding her hands in her lap with an air of quiet dignity despite her disheveled appearance. Christina took her seat as well and began asking about her qualifications.
"You mentioned that you are from Bath. Have you held previous positions as a governess?"
"Yes, Your Grace," Miss Brown replied, her voice steadying as she spoke. "I served as a governess for four years with the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Carver. I was responsible for their education in reading, writing, arithmetic, and French, as well as their music lessons."
"And how did the children progress under your care?" Christina asked, leaning forward slightly.
Miss Brown's face brightened. "The youngest learned to read within a year, and all three were proficient in writing shortly after. They also enjoyed their music lessons, and I believe they've continued their studies in my absence."
Impressed by Miss Brown's accomplishments, Christina asked a few more questions about her references and responsibilities. It became clear that the young woman was intelligent, well-mannered, and capable—qualities Christina valued highly.
When the interview came to a close, Christina smiled. "Thank you, Miss Brown. You've certainly made a fine impression. I shall speak with the duke and inform him of my recommendation."
Miss Brown curtsied once more. "Thank you, Your Grace."
