Page 89 of The Enigmatic Governess of Buford Manor
“It will be in a fortnight,” she explained. “Of course, I will provide more details as they come available.”
“Do let me know how I can assist, Your Grace.”
“Your position is to keep the children unaware.”
The duchess opened the door to the tearoom but not before stopping to cast Rose one last look.
“You are certain all is well, Miss Rose? You are not in need of rest?”
The governess felt her spine straighten in defiance, knowing that the question was regarding Rose’s mind state.
“I assure you, Your Grace, I would inform you at once if I was in need of anything whatsoever. You and the duke make it quite easy to be honest with your lack of judgement.”
A half-smile formed on the duchess’ face but she did not respond as if she was weighing the meaning behind Rose’s words.
“I should attend to the children,” Rose offered, hurrying toward the door.
“Yes,” the duchess replied and Rose could feel her eyes follow her through the corridor until she was out of sight.
When she was certain she was no longer in the duchess’ view, Rose fell against the wall, exhaling in respite.
Perhaps a party is not such a terrible distraction,she thought, wiping her palms nervously against the skirts of her pink and white gown. Her sweating hands passed over the letter in her tie and Rose pulled it out.
She had forgotten about it but seeing it again caused her pulse to quicken. There was only one person she could imagine it to be and when she tore open the casing, her suspicions were confirmed.
Dear Mrs. Parsons,
I would like to thank you for your letter dated March 21st. I confess, I was startled to receive it but given our last encounter, I am quite happy that you are doing well in Buford.
I understand your need to find answers in regard to Philip’s death and while I can provide you with very few conclusions, I will tell you what I know for certain.
On the evening of November 1st, we were in port for the night. Several of us had left the ship for shore but Captain Balfour and your husband, Lieutenant Philip Parsons remained on deck. What transpired thereafter, according to Captain Balfour, was a matter of speculation. He claims he was not present but a mast struck your husband in the skull and he was instantly killed.
I understand this is difficult for you to read and I offer you my sincerest condolences losing your husband in such a freakish accident but know my thoughts and prayers remain with you.
I do hope this permits you some closure during this difficult time.
God Bless,
Lieutenant Joel Walters, Royal Navy
The letter fluttered from Rose’s trembling hands to the floor and she stared dully at the wall before her.
Philip was killed by a blow to the head,she thought, her breaths uneven.Just as the duke was found. Both in the company of Captain Daniel Balfour.
If she had not been certain before, the letter from Lieutenant Walters had confirmed it; Captain Balfour was a killer.
A killer who has his sights on Duchess Buford and Nicholas.
Chapter 30
Upon returning from the towns, Nicholas found himself exhausted.
“Your Grace, supper is served,” Theodore announced but the duke could barely raise his head in acknowledgement.
“I will not be joining the family for supper,” he said, regret filling his tone. “Please submit my apologies to my mother.”
He wanted to add his cousins’ names and Rose but speaking was becoming a chore.
