The Vicar's Frozen Heart by Karyn Gerrard

was a particular favorite at court.
    “You accepted the title when you returned from South Africa and I was glad you did. Regardless of what you think, the title does hold meaning, Trey. It holds respect and responsibilities.” Jon folded his arms. “Granted, you are wielding the designation of viscount in a meaningful way behind the scenes, but I firmly believe you could do far more good if you stepped out from behind the curtain and embraced the title and power that comes with it by serving in the House of Lords. There you can effect real change. However, ultimately it is your decision and you know I will support you.”
    A roll of warmth traveled through Tremain at the words. Jon was a true friend and Tremain loved him as much as his brothers. “I don’t like asking you to speak falsehoods nor do I like asking it of my family. They are telling everyone in our social circle I am in Italy, basking in the Mediterranean sun to heal all that ails me. The ruse is holding for now. I ask for a little longer, Jon. Have patience with me. I need to work this through.”
    “So, we are to become a home for foundlings and indigents, then?” Jon’s eyes twinkled in merriment.
    Tremain nodded and gave Jon a brief and all too rare smile. “So it would seem, my dear friend.”
     

Chapter 11
     
    Eliza worked diligently at the pub for the remainder of the week, and while carrying out her duties came to the realization the Tompkinses did not need another barmaid. They had adequate staff before she’d been taken on. Obviously they hired her as a favor to the vicar. How long she could stay at this post was something she thought about a lot. Though she came to appreciate hard work and acquired a new respect for those who labored long hours for little pay, she also came to the conclusion that being a barmaid for the rest of her days did not hold any appeal.
    In truth, she enjoyed being a governess--in fact, she loved it, and gained a good deal of satisfaction in shaping and teaching a child. Though St Anne’s Industrial School had its faults, she did gain a solid education. She finished at the top of her class every year and earned the opportunity to train as a governess. The nuns stressed to her the importance of modest dress and deportment, an absolute must along with the ability to melt into the background. Hence the gray skirts, starched blouses fastened to the neck, and her unruly auburn hair pulled tight in a bun hidden under a lace cap. Neither a servant nor a member of the family, a governess existed in a solitary category all her own. Her previous salary of thirty pounds a year had been more than generous for a governess. The Bowater family also made arrangements for the care of her laundry, meals, and the general upkeep of her room.
    Yet in her two-year employment she’d hardly saved a farthing. Growing up with nothing meant that having a few pounds in her pocket made her giddy, and she spent a lot of it on books, the quilt, painting, and other little touches and trinkets to personalize her room. She was heartily glad to see the items in her trunk.
    Regardless, she’d imagined she had her whole life ahead of her, plenty of time to save money and develop more frugal spending habits. Another lesson well learned. What had she cared about money? After all, sweet Susanna was only six and years of employment lay ahead for Eliza. There were even discussions that she could become Susanna’s chaperone and companion when the girl grew older.
    And how did Eliza repay the munificence of the Earl of Bowater? She allowed herself to be seduced by his youngest son, though there was plenty of blame for them both. A stab of regret settled near her heart and she laid her fist against her chest as if to stem the pain. Foolish girl.
    Why had she placed her rosy future in jeopardy for a little warmth in the arms of a willing young man? After plenty of introspection she surmised she’d been lonely and desperate for affection. After growing up