Chapter 7

Chapter 7

The next morning, Isabella awoke early, the dream still vivid in her mind. It had given her a sense of hope she desperately needed, even though it was bittersweet. As she dressed and prepared for the day, she clung to the image of that peaceful, fulfilling life she had envisioned.

The morning chores at the orphanage provided a comforting routine. Isabella helped Eileen prepare breakfast, the aroma of porridge and freshly baked bread filling the kitchen. The children's laughter and chatter were a soothing solace to her troubled thoughts.

As she moved through the familiar motions, she felt a sense of belonging, even amid her worries.

After breakfast, Isabella helped the children get ready for the day. They played outside for a while, their joy infectious and momentarily easing her anxiety. But her mind kept drifting back to the letters Eileen had sent to the connections she had.

Would anyone respond? Would anyone even consider hiring her, given the rumors Marie had spread?

Just as they were finishing up the morning chores, Eileen came hurrying toward Isabella, a letter in her hand. Isabella's heart skipped a beat as she took it from Eileen, her eyes filled with cautious optimism.

"Isabella, it is from the Earl of Duncaster's estate. Open it," Eileen urged gently.

"That was fast," Isabella gasped. "Do you think that is a good or bad thing?"

"We will not know until you open it."

With trembling hands, Isabella broke the seal and unfolded the letter. Her eyes skimmed over the words, and she felt a surge of hope.

" Dear Miss Isabella Monroe,

We have received your request and are pleased to inform you that the Earl of Harrington is willing to meet with you for an interview this afternoon at two o'clock. Please arrive at Harrington Hall promptly.

Sincerely, Mr. Porter, Butler of Harrington Hall. "

Isabella read the letter aloud to Eileen, her voice shaking with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Eileen smiled warmly, her hand squeezing Isabella's.

"This is wonderful news, Isabella. The earl is known for his fairness. You must go and give it your best."

Isabella nodded, feeling a flicker of optimism. "Thank you, Eileen. I will."

With her heart hammering with nerves, Isabella knew that it was going to be a very long and stressful day, but perhaps one of the most important of her life.

The hours until the interview seemed to stretch endlessly. Isabella busied herself with more chores, trying to keep her mind occupied. But the thought of the interview loomed over her, a mix of hope and dread. She could not help but worry about what the earl might have heard about her.

If Marie's rumors had reached him, would he even give her a chance?

He had written her a letter, but perhaps that was purely because of the respect that he had for Eileen. Isabella could imagine that, Eileen was someone who everyone adored. That was why the orphanage managed to keep on going.

At noon, Isabella changed into her best dress, a simple but neat garment that had seen better days. Eileen fussed over her, smoothing her hair and offering words of encouragement.

"You look lovely, Isabella. Remember, be honest and show him the kind and capable person you are. He will see the truth."

"Do you have any other advice for me? Since you have already met him?"

"Be respectful, but do not be afraid to speak your mind," Eileen advised, her eyes filled with wisdom. "From what I have seen of him, the earl appreciates honesty and integrity. Show him your dedication and passion for helping others. He is a good man, Isabella. He will see the real you."

Isabella took a deep breath and nodded, feeling a bit more steady. "Thank you, Eileen. I'll do my best."

With a final hug from Eileen and a chorus of good luck wishes from the children, Isabella set off for Harrington Hall.

As Isabella walked toward the earl's residence, she couldn't help but feel a shiver of apprehension. The memory of her previous ordeal, when she had been attacked and mugged, haunted her steps.

She quickened her pace, constantly scanning her surroundings for any sign of danger.

However, she reminded herself that she was not in fancy clothing this time, and thus, less likely to attract unwanted attention.

She wrapped her shawl tightly around herself, both for warmth and a sense of security. The streets were busy with the bustle of daily life, and she took comfort in the presence of other people.

Despite her nerves, the familiarity of the route and the bustling activity around her provided some reassurance.

But the closer she got to the estate, the more her nerves took over. But she knew she had to be strong. This was her chance to clear her name and secure a future, not just for herself but for the orphanage as well.

She was not just doing this for herself, but for the children and Eileen as well.

As she neared Harrington Hall, the grandeur of the estate came into view, and her anxiety shifted from her surroundings to the upcoming interview. She took a deep breath, focusing on Eileen's encouraging words and the children's cheerful send off. She had to trust in herself and in the fairness of the earl.

Arriving at the grand entrance of Harrington Hall, Isabella couldn't help but pause, her breath catching at the sight before her. The estate was a vision of opulence and elegance, far exceeding any place she had ever seen.

The vast lawns were meticulously manicured, with flower beds bursting with vibrant colors framing the wide gravel path that led to the imposing mansion. The house itself was a magnificent structure of stone and marble, its high windows gleaming in the sunlight. Ivy climbed gracefully up the walls, adding a touch of timeless beauty to the stately architecture.

Isabella felt a mixture of awe and intimidation as she approached the large, ornately carved wooden doors. Before she could knock, Mr. Porter appeared, opening the door with a courteous smile.

"Good afternoon, Miss Monroe, I presume?" Mr. Porter greeted her warmly, his voice carrying the calm assurance of someone who had long mastered the art of hospitality. Isabella could only nod in response. "Welcome to Harrington Hall. Please, do come inside."

Isabella nodded, murmuring a polite greeting in return as she stepped over the threshold.

The instant she entered, she was struck by the breathtaking beauty of the interior. The grand foyer was a harmonious blend of sophistication and history, with polished marble floors, intricately carved wooden paneling, and a sweeping staircase that seemed to invite one to explore the upper floors.

Crystal chandeliers hung from the high ceiling, casting a soft, warm light that made the space feel both opulent and welcoming. Rich tapestries adorned the walls, depicting scenes from the estate's storied past. The air was filled with the faint scent of fresh flowers, which were tastefully arranged in elegant vases throughout the hall.

"Please, follow me," Mr. Porter said, guiding her through the foyer and into a spacious drawing room.

The room was equally impressive, with plush furniture upholstered in rich fabrics, a grand fireplace, and large windows that offered a stunning view of the gardens outside.

Isabella tried to contain her amazement as she followed Mr. Porter, her eyes taking in every detail. She had never seen such grandeur in her life, and it was almost overwhelming. Even nicer than the home she had worked in before, not that she had thought it possible at the time.

She reminded herself to stay composed, remembering Eileen's advice to be honest and to show her true self.

"Please have a seat, Miss Isabella," Mr. Porter gestured to a comfortable-looking chair near the fireplace. "The earl will call for you shortly."

"Thank you," Isabella replied, her voice steady despite the fluttering in her chest.

She took a seat, her back straight and her hands folded neatly in her lap.

She knew that first impressions were crucial, and she wanted to present herself as confident and capable, even if her heart was racing.

As she waited, Isabella allowed herself a moment to absorb her surroundings. The room exuded a sense of history and refinement, with bookshelves filled with leather-bound volumes and delicate porcelain figurines displayed in glass cabinets.

A large portrait of a stern-looking man, presumably a former earl, hung above the mantelpiece, watching over the room with an air of authority.

The minutes ticked by, each one feeling longer than the last. Isabella took deep breaths, reminding herself of Eileen's encouraging words. This was her chance to prove herself, and she had to make the most of it.

Finally, the door to the drawing room opened, and a young man, likely another servant, stepped out. He nodded to Mr. Porter before leaving the room, and Mr. Porter turned to Isabella.

"The earl is ready to see you now, Miss Isabella. Please follow me."

Isabella stood, smoothing her dress and taking one last deep breath to steady her nerves.

She followed Mr. Porter down a short hallway, her eyes catching glimpses of more artwork and fine furniture as they walked.

She marveled at the intricate paintings, some depicting serene landscapes, others grand historical events. She remained outside the door, waiting for the earl to call to her as she admired the beautiful art hanging on the walls.

Maria's family had artwork too, but they did not seem to really admire artists work, they simply had it because they thought that they should. There was something more soulless about the pieces.

Isabella marveled at the intricate paintings, losing herself in the serene landscapes and grand historical scenes.

Each piece seemed to tell a story, inviting her to step into another world. As she admired a particularly beautiful painting of a sunset over a tranquil lake, a discreet cough interrupted her reverie.

Startled, she turned and froze, her breath catching in her throat.

Oh, my goodness, she thought desperately to herself. It cannot be…

But it did not matter how many times she blinked, the image before her did not change.

Standing in the doorway was a man whose face she could never forget.

The man who had saved her from being mugged in the alleyway.