Read Online No Regrets: A Novel of Love and Lies in World War II England (The Thornton Trilogy Book 1) by Mary Christian Payne - Free Book Online

seventeenth century. I’ve never seen anything like it, but where would I? Unless you count having visited Versailles, when I lived in Paris. It isn’t as grand as Versailles, but it’s awfully spectacular. There are so many rooms, it will be hard to learn all of them. I suppose I shall, eventually. Lord and Lady Thornton seem like good people. He’s quite a handsome old gent, with white hair and a trim form. She’s one of those people you want to put your arms round and cuddle. She’s very aristocratic, but still approachable. One seldom sees her without her knitting. She dresses sensibly and has white hair, worn in a neat updo. I already like her immensely.”
    “And what will your duties be? I know your title is ‘lady’s maid’, but what exactly does that entail?”
    “I’ll be her personal maid, responsible for her clothing – making certain it’s in top shape at all times. No buttons missing, no tears, no seams requiring a mend. I’ll tend to her personal needs, too. I’ll do her hair and anything else that’s part of her toilette. I don’t think she wears any cosmetics – perhaps a bit of light lip rouge. She always looks immaculate. I’m told I’ll advise her on what frocks to wear, if they’re entertaining, or even just for daywear.”
    “Aren’t you a bit frightened?” Elise asked.
    “Not really. Naturally, I’ll be somewhat nervous. But Elise, I did so many of those things when I worked in Paris. When I first began, I was very young – sixteen. Well, you know that. I was trained to assist the older girls with their toilette. I became very accomplished at hair dressing, and also took charge of keeping wardrobes in perfect condition. I even made some clothing. The moment I was offered this job, I searched out the village library and found several books on the duties expected of domestic help. One was particularly helpful regarding proper etiquette in a great house. I’ve read it so many times, I practically have it memorised,” she smiled.
    “You’ll learn everything very quickly. I think your accent adds to your charm. Your command of the English language is wonderful. I’ve never heard you make a mistake. I’m sure you’ll be a great addition to the staff.”
    “We’re both fortunate we were taught English. I’m very comfortable with it.”
    “Yes. So am I. In fact, I’ve thought about teaching French someday, when Chloe is older. You’re going to be very successful, Giselle. They’re lucky to have you.”
    “I do hope so. I liked everyone I met. The housekeeper, Mrs. Littleton, has apparently been with the family forever and a day. She seems very kind, but I imagine she can be strict. One would have to be to oversee such a massive home. The butler, Richmond, is exactly what you’d expect a butler to be. Tall, dark haired, somewhat stern-looking and exceedingly proper. I’m sure he’s very nice, but it’s hard to tell about someone in that position, until one gets to know him. The only other person I met was the cook, Ruth. I imagine she’s quite talented. What with the entertaining called for in a large house, she’d need to know how to prepare extravagant meals. Just cooking for the family is probably an event. There are parlour maids, kitchen helpers, upstairs maids – I’ll get to know them in time.”
    “Have the Thornton’s any children?”
    “Yes. Only the one son. He’s away fighting, of course. RAF. Lady Celia said he’s in Africa. I don’t recall his name right now. She may not have told me. Since his father is an earl, he’s a viscount. I learned that at the library, too. These things are very important to the gentry. Mon Dieu ! I never dreamed I’d find myself working in this sort of position. It will be a whole new experience, but I’ll adjust. I want to start over. I want to forget the past and become a decent lady.”
    “You’ve always been a decent lady, Giselle. You made some unwise choices, but so does everybody in one way or