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4. Chapter Four

Chapter Four

Richard's gleaming black carriage pulled up to the Duke Street orphanage the following afternoon, its large wheels rattling on the cobblestones. Theresa stood at the entrance, clutching her humble carpet-bag to her chest. Her heart raced with excitement and apprehension as she took in the sight before her.

"Theresa, my dear," Mrs. Hatton said, her stern expression softening for a moment as she came out to bid her charge farewell. "I've bought you two new plain grey dresses, some aprons, and a pair of new shoes." She handed Theresa a neatly wrapped parcel containing the standard uniform for the Duke Street girls as they embarked on their new lives.

"Thank you, Mrs. Hatton," Theresa replied, her voice barely above a whisper. She carefully placed the parcel in her carpet-bag, feeling the weight of her new life within it.

"Take care, Theresa," said Helen, her blonde curls framing her pretty face. "We'll miss you here."

"Indeed," Josephine chimed in, her eyes filled with curiosity. "You must write to us and tell us all about your new life."

"Of course," Theresa promised, hugging each of the other girls in turn. Their puzzled expressions were clear; they couldn't quite fathom how their quiet, unassuming friend had secured such a prestigious position, when both of them were more qualified for it. But there was genuine warmth in their goodbyes, and Theresa felt grateful for their support.

"Theresa!" called a younger voice from the doorway. Molly bounded down the steps, her eyes shining with envy. "I can't believe you're going to live with all those horses! One day, I hope I'll be as lucky as you."

Theresa smiled, reaching out to embrace the one friend who had shared her passion. "Molly, dear, I have no doubt that one day you will find your own path to happiness. And who knows? Maybe there will be horses waiting for you, too."

"Thank you, Theresa," Molly whispered, hugging her tightly. "Don't forget about us, will you?"

"Never," Theresa vowed, feeling a lump rise in her throat. "You know, Molly, I need you to do something very important for me."

"Anything, Theresa," Molly replied eagerly, her eyes wide with anticipation.

"Take care of Mr. Buttons for me," Theresa whispered, hoping Mrs. Hatton couldn't hear. "He'll need someone to keep him company, and I can't think of anyone better than you."

Molly's face lit up at the responsibility bestowed upon her, and she nodded vigorously, though with a sidelong glance at the matron. "I promise, Theresa. I'll take the best care of him."

"Thank you, dear," Theresa whispered, giving Molly one last embrace before stepping into the waiting carriage. As she settled onto the plush seat, she looked out the window at the only home she had ever known.

The orphanage loomed large in her vision, its austere brick walls softened by memories of laughter and friendship. She swallowed back tears that threatened to spill over, knowing that this departure was a bittersweet one. Though life within those walls had been far from easy, the friends she had made there had been her family, the only one she had ever known.

"Goodbye," she murmured softly, more to herself than anyone else. Her heart raced with a mixture of fear and excitement as the unknown stretched out before her like an uncharted ocean. But deep down, she knew she couldn't let her trepidation hold her back from this incredible opportunity.

As the horses began to pull the carriage forward, Theresa leaned out the window for one final glimpse of the orphanage and the life she was leaving behind. The wind tugged playfully at her brown curls, drying the tears that stubbornly clung to her cheeks.

"Take care of yourself, Theresa!" called Molly, waving frantically from the doorway as the carriage pulled away. "And don't forget to write!"

"Promise me you'll take care of Mr. Buttons!" Theresa shouted back, her voice barely audible over the clatter of hooves and wheels against cobblestone.

"Cross my heart!" Molly's reply reached her ears just as the orphanage disappeared from view, leaving Theresa with a bittersweet ache in her chest.

Drawing in a deep breath, she turned her gaze forward, curiosity and wonder filling her as they embarked on the journey towards her new life. The past might have been filled with hardship and sorrow, but the future held endless possibilities, and Theresa was determined to seize every opportunity that came her way.

The sun was just beginning to dip below the horizon as Theresa approached her destination, the Mayfair townhouse where Mr. Bell stayed with his family when in London. Her heart fluttered with anticipation as she took in the sight. Though it was not an ostentatious dwelling by any means, it was still grander than anything she had ever known.

"Miss Wilkes," said Richard, offering his arm as he helped her down from the carriage. "Welcome to your new home."

"Thank you, Mr. Bell," she replied softly, clutching her small carpet-bag tightly in her other hand.

As they entered the townhouse, Theresa was immediately struck by the warmth and cosiness of the interior. The rich scent of roasting meat wafted from the kitchen, and the sounds of laughter echoed through the halls.

"Ah, there you are!" exclaimed a woman in her late fifties with steel-grey hair and a perpetual scowl. "Supper is nearly ready, and the girls have been asking for you nonstop."

"Miss Wilkes, this is Mrs. Blythe, our nursemaid," introduced Richard, though Theresa guessed as much from her stern demeanour.

"Nice to meet you, Mrs. Blythe," said Theresa, offering a timid smile.

"Likewise, I'm sure," the older woman muttered, not quite meeting her gaze. "Now, let's get to supper before we have a tantrum or some tears."

Theresa followed Mrs. Blythe upstairs and into a cosy little room, where three excited little girls were already seated at the table. Their eyes lit up as soon as they saw her, and they began peppering her with questions about her journey and her life at the orphanage.

"Slow down, girls. Let Miss Wilkes catch her breath," scolded Mrs. Blythe, though Theresa found their enthusiasm quite endearing.

"Thank you," Theresa murmured, her cheeks flushing as she took her seat. "I'm just happy to be here with all of you."

"We'll be going home to Belle Haven tomorrow!" Clara exclaimed. "We can't wait to show you all the horses!"

"I'm so excited to meet them!" Theresa replied eagerly, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

As the meal progressed, Theresa found herself gradually relaxing in the little girls' company. Their chatter was a welcome distraction from her own apprehensions, and by the time dessert was served, she felt as if she had known them for years.

When it was time for bed, Theresa helped Mrs. Blythe tuck the girls in, listening as they whispered about their plans for tomorrow's adventures. Once they were settled, Mrs. Blythe led Theresa to her own small room. It was nothing fancy, but it was clean and comfortable, and Theresa appreciated having a space of her own.

"Thank you, Mrs. Blythe," said Theresa as the nursemaid bid her goodnight. "I know we got off on the wrong foot, but I hope we can work together for the girls' sake."

"Perhaps," Mrs. Blythe conceded grudgingly, her scowl softening ever so slightly. "Now get some rest, child. Tomorrow is a big day."

With that, the older woman closed the door behind her, leaving Theresa alone with her thoughts. As she lay down on the narrow bed, she couldn't help but wonder what the future held for her at Belle Haven.

As Theresa settled into the soft mattress, she pulled the thick blanket over herself, marvelling at its warmth. The room might have been small, but it was surprisingly comfortable, with delicately embroidered curtains framing the window and a small vase of wildflowers on the bedside table. However, despite her physical comfort, sleep eluded her. Tossing and turning, she listened to the unfamiliar sounds of the Mayfair townhouse as it settled into slumber, and the night watchman had cried midnight before she finally drifted off.

The morning came all too soon, with a tired Theresa rubbing her eyes when a maid knocked on her door to wake her. She dressed quickly in one of her new grey dresses and hurried downstairs.

"Good morning," Richard greeted her with a warm smile as she entered the breakfast room. "I hope you slept well."

"Good morning, sir," Theresa replied, her cheeks flushing slightly as she remembered her restless night. "Very comfortably, thank you," she told a small fib, not daring to complain.

"Ah, it's always difficult the first night in a new place," he said wisely, before gesturing for her to join the family at the table, where a magnificent spread of eggs, bacon, mushrooms and fried potatoes was served on large platters, with toast and marmalade besides. Theresa stared, astounded at such bounty. While there was always plenty to eat at the Duke Street orphanage - as evidenced by her own plump form - it was always simple food, and breakfast would be no more than porridge and plain bread. Tentatively, she took some bacon and a scoop of scrambled eggs onto her own plate, and nodded a little nervously when a maid offered to pour her a cup of tea.

During the meal, the little girls chattered excitedly about their journey to Belle Haven, while Theresa listened attentively. Afterwards, they made their way outside to the waiting carriage, and Theresa couldn't help but notice Richard's beautiful bay mare waiting patiently for her master. The spirited animal seemed eager for the ride ahead, and Theresa's heart lifted at the sight, her fatigue momentarily forgotten.

"Her name is Ballerina," Clara informed her, noticing Theresa's admiration of the horse. "Papa rides her everywhere."

"Ballerina is a beautiful name," Theresa said, smiling warmly at the child. "It suits her very well, for she moves like a dancer. Do you have horses of your own?"

"Of course!" chimed in the youngest, Eliza, her eyes lighting up. "We each have a pony. And there are so many other horses at Belle Haven! You'll see!"

"Eliza speaks the truth," Richard confirmed as he handed each girl up into the carriage, offering his hand to Theresa too, startling her. "We have a fine stable and many horses for breeding and riding."

As the carriage set off, Richard riding Ballerina alongside, the girls eagerly told Theresa about each horse they knew, their names, and their personalities. They spoke with such love and affection that it was clear to Theresa these children adored the animals just as much as she did. Their excitement was contagious, and despite her lack of sleep, Theresa felt energised by their shared passion.

As the countryside rolled past, Theresa's heart swelled with gratitude and wonder. She might have left the only home she had ever known, but in this new world of rolling hills and kindred spirits, she dared to hope that she might find true happiness at last.

As they journeyed further from London, the miles seemed to pass more quickly. A few hours into the trip, the carriage stopped at a quaint inn nestled among trees where fresh horses awaited them. Richard dismounted Ballerina and approached the carriage.

"Everyone out," he called cheerfully. "We shall rest here a while and have some refreshments before we continue."

"Come along, Miss Wilkes," urged little Eliza, taking Theresa's hand and guiding her into the cosy inn.

Theresa marvelled at how seamlessly she had been accepted by these children, their warmth and familiarity making her feel as though she belonged. In the dimly-lit common room of the inn, they sipped on sweet lemonade and nibbled on buttery biscuits, their laughter mingling with the voices of fellow travellers.

"Are we almost to Belle Haven, Papa?" Clara inquired, her eyes alight with eagerness.

"A little more than half way," Richard replied, a hint of pride in his voice. "A few more hours, and we'll be home."

"Miss Wilkes, you're going to love it there," Anna said, beaming up at Theresa.

"Your enthusiasm is infectious!" Theresa exclaimed, unable to contain her own excitement any longer.

The remainder of the journey seemed to pass in the blink of an eye, as the girls continued to share stories of their beloved home. When the carriage finally came to a halt in the late afternoon, Theresa felt a tingling sense of anticipation. She couldn't help but gasp at the sight that unfolded before her eyes as a footman opened the carriage door. Belle Haven was a sprawling grey stone building, its grandeur softened by the ivy creeping up its walls and the rolling hills of green grass that surrounded it. Indeed, it was a sight straight from a fairytale.

"Welcome home, Miss Wilkes," Richard declared, extending his hand to help her down from the carriage.

"Thank you, Mr. Bell," Theresa replied, her voice barely more than a whisper as she continued to take in the magnificent scenery.

"Look, Theresa!" cried little Eliza, tugging at her sleeve. "Horses!"

Everywhere Theresa looked, there were horses; mares grazing with frisky foals at their sides, their coats gleaming under the golden afternoon sunlight. They all appeared plump and well cared for, a testament to Richard's dedication and love for these magnificent creatures.

"Watch this," Richard said, his eyes twinkling mischievously as he pursed his lips and let out a sharp whistle.

To Theresa's amazement, a glorious chestnut Thoroughbred stallion came galloping over the hills, mane and tail flowing behind him like a river of fire. The sight took her breath away, and she could hardly believe her good fortune to be in such a place.

"Isn't he magnificent?" Richard asked, his voice filled with pride.

"Absolutely breathtaking," Theresa agreed, her brown eyes wide with wonder.

"His name is Hermes," Clara chimed in, clearly eager to share her knowledge of their equine family members. "He's our fastest racer."

"Would you like to meet him, Miss Wilkes?" Richard offered, his blue eyes studying her closely, perhaps looking for any signs of trepidation.

"Truly?" Theresa's heart swelled with joy at the thought of getting to know each and every one of these beautiful animals. "I would be honoured, Mr. Bell."

"Then it's settled," Richard replied, a warm smile gracing his lips. "We shall make proper introductions tomorrow morning."

As they walked towards the manor, Theresa couldn't help but feel that she had found her place in the world – a place where her love for horses could flourish alongside the affection and camaraderie of her newfound family. With each step on the soft grass beneath her feet, she felt herself growing more excited for the adventures that awaited her at Belle Haven.

"Thank you, Mr. Bell," she whispered, her voice filled with gratitude. "Thank you for giving me this opportunity."

"Think nothing of it, Miss Wilkes," Richard replied, his hand briefly touching her shoulder in reassurance. "You're going to do great things here, I have no doubt."

With those words echoing in her heart, Theresa looked back at the horses grazing peacefully in the fields, feeling as though she had finally found a place to call home.

"Please, Papa," implored Clara. "Can't we show Miss Wilkes the stables now? She hasn't even met our ponies yet!"

Richard ruffled Clara's hair affectionately, his blue eyes full of indulgence. "It's getting late, my dear, and we only just got home. You all need a bath, and then your supper will be ready and it will be bedtime."

"But Papa," chimed in Anna, her hazel eyes wide and pleading, "Theresa loves horses just like us! Don't you, Theresa?"

"Indeed I do," Theresa replied, unable to contain her smile as she looked upon the beautiful animals dotting the landscape. Her heart yearned to explore the stables and meet each horse personally, but she understood Richard's reasoning.

"See?" said Eliza, tugging on Richard's arm. "She wants to go now too!"

"Patience, little one," Richard advised gently, a tender smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Morning will come soon enough."

As Richard left them to take Ballerina around to the stables along with the carriage, the girls sidled up to Theresa, their eyes sparkling with mischief. "Miss Wilkes," whispered Clara, "would you sneak out with us after supper and take us to the stables?"

Theresa hesitated, feeling the thrill of adventure pulsing through her veins. How she longed to join the girls in their nighttime escapade! But she knew that breaking rules with them on her very first day would not be wise. If she were to earn their respect and guide them properly, she needed to set a good example.

"Girls," Theresa said softly but firmly, "I understand your excitement, but it's important that we listen to your father. We must wait until tomorrow morning."

The girls sighed, disappointment evident on their faces, but they nodded in agreement. As they returned to the manor, Theresa couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in her decision. Though the temptation to break the rules had been strong, she knew that standing her ground would ultimately prove beneficial in gaining the girls' trust and respect. "However," Theresa continued with a soft smile, "I promise that we will go out first thing in the morning, before breakfast even, to visit the stables. We shall make an adventure of it, if you like."

A chorus of excited laughter filled the room as Clara, Anna, and Eliza clapped their hands in delight.

"Really, Miss Theresa?" Clara asked, her eyes shining like polished sapphires.

"Truly," Theresa confirmed, her heart swelling with affection for the girls. "But only if you all promise to have a good night's sleep and be ready for our day together."

The girls nodded vigorously, their previous disappointment evaporating like morning dew under the sun's warm rays.

"Very well," Theresa said, rising from her chair and smoothing the folds of her plain grey dress. "Now, baths, supper and bed it is. Remember, the sooner we sleep, the sooner we can visit your beloved horses."

The girls scampered up the grand staircase, their giggles echoing through the manor as they disappeared down the hallway. Theresa couldn't help but smile at their enthusiasm, her nerves slowly giving way to anticipation for the morning's adventure.

As Theresa retired to her own modest room after seeing the girls to bed, the unfamiliarity of her surroundings made it difficult for her to fall asleep. But as she lay in the darkness, listening to the distant rustle of leaves outside her window, she allowed herself to dream of the stables and the horses that awaited her come dawn. For now, her life at Belle Haven had truly begun.

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