Chapter 6 - Shadows of the PastThe pre-engagement party ended immediately, the guests departing in a flurry of sensational gossip.
By midnight, the grand mansion was quiet again.
Marcus sat in his library, staring into the roaring fireplace, holding a glass of scotch. He felt an overwhelming sense of disgustânot just at Vanessaâs cruelty, but at his own blind failure to see through her superficial mask sooner.
A soft knock sounded at the open library door.
Clara stood in the doorway, wearing her simple navy sweater, holding a tray with warm chamomile tea.
âMr. Hargrove,â Clara spoke softly. âI brought you tea. I... I also came to tell you that Lily and I will pack our things and leave in the morning.â
Marcus set his glass down, standing up instantly. âLeave? Why would you leave, Clara?â
âI don't want to cause any more trouble for your family,â Clara bowed her head. âYour fiancĂ©eâs father is a powerful banker. This scandal will hurt your company.â
Marcus walked across the oriental rug, stopping inches away from her. He reached out, gently lifting her chin so her brown eyes met his.
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âYou didn't cause this trouble, Clara,â Marcus said, his eyes filled with warmth and sincere respect. âYou and your daughter exposed a lie that would have ruined my life. I want you to stay. Not as a maid... but as someone this house desperately needs.â
Clara looked into his dark eyes, feeling a strange, breathtaking warmth flutter in her chestâa feeling she hadn't allowed herself to experience in years.
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