“You always appear very composed, Leah,” Shapland said, smiling. “Are you content in your position?”
They stood in the inner hall, with the marble staircase rising behind them and an array of swords and firearms decorating the wall above a carved oak settle.
“Yes, sir,” Leah said with a brief curtsey. “I am very happy in your employ.”
“I do wish you would call me Charles.” Shapland held out his hand. “We are old friends now, Leah, and there is no need for formality between us.”
“It’s not fitting that I use your Christian name, sir,” Leah said. “I am your wife’s companion and maidservant, and you are a great man.”
“Come and sit beside me, Leah.” Shapland led her into the drawing room and deposited her on an armed chair beside the fire. “I have a confession to make, Leah, and something
