CHAPTER SEVENTEEN C: A LETTER FROM BATH
The letter from Bath arrived while Selena was finishing the baker’s last apron.
Her friend Margaret had heard of the trial position and wished her well, but the promised place in Bath could not remain open indefinitely.
Selena read the letter twice.
Mrs. Elkin noticed her expression.
“Bad news?”
“A decision I hoped I would not have to make so soon.”
“Those are often the most useful kind.”
Selena showed her the letter.
Mrs. Elkin read it carefully and handed it back.
“Bath would pay more than we can offer,” she said.
“I know.
”
“You would work longer hours.”
“I know that too.”
“Then why are you looking at me as though I must decide for you?”
Selena folded the paper.
“Because I am afraid that choosing Oak Haven will make people believe I stayed for William.”
Mrs. Elkin sat opposite her.
“Did you come here to work because of him?”
“He told me about the opportunity.”
“That is not what I asked.”
Selena looked at the half-finished apron.
“I came because I wanted to find out whether I could earn a place here.”
“Then you have your answer.”
“I have only been here a few days.
”
“You have worked, you have listened, and you have corrected your mistakes,” Mrs. Elkin replied.
“That is what a trial is meant to show.”
Selena breathed slowly.
“I will write to Margaret tonight.”
“Tell her the truth,” Mrs. Elkin said.
“Tell her that you have found work you want to continue.”
That evening Selena sat at her small desk and wrote a letter that did not mention a duke until the final paragraph.
She thanked Margaret for believing she could support herself before anyone in her own family had considered the possibility.
She explained that the village workroom needed someone who could teach fine stitching while learning the practical methods of the other women.
She admitted that she cared for William, but she refused to let affection erase the importance of her own choice.
When she sealed the letter, she felt the familiar anxiety of closing one door without knowing exactly what waited beyond another.
