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

refinement, which would further my dreams of finding a respectable husband.”
    “You don’t need refinement, Giselle. But, it’s awfully hard for me to agree to this plan. How can I allow you to support Chloe and me? I do have some money and, of course, I’m willing to share what I have with you. Perhaps we could make it work until Chloe is old enough for school. Then I could find a job too – at least part-time.”
    “Yes. You see, I think it’s a fine plan. Even if you don’t agree, I’m going to leave Maison de Violette . I’ve been thinking about this for a long time. But, I’d so much rather have a friend come with me, to share a cottage. Perhaps we could find the one we’ve dreamed about. Who knows? Perhaps even near the sea. Oh say you’ll do it, Elise.”
    “Of course I’d love to. How will we go about it?”
    “I’ll go first, and search for a position. When I’ve found a job and a cottage, I’ll post you. Then, you and Chloe will join me.”
    “It sounds so wonderful. Where are you thinking of searching?”
    “I’ve already researched the locations of some of the large estates on the southeast coast. I could enquire by letter but, to be perfectly honest, I think it would be wiser to present myself in person. I don’t mean to sound self-centered, but since God has blessed me with attractive features, I’ll put them to good use.” She laughed again. “That’s what I’ve been doing for years now, isn’t it? I’ll just present myself in a different way. The hair will go into a bun, and I’ll be plain and modest in my dress. I know the aristocracy prefers an employee who gives a pleasant, subdued appearance. And, I should think a French accent might be attractive. I’ll take anything they offer – parlour-maid, whatever.”
    “Giselle, I don’t think you’ll have any trouble finding a position. You may be surprised. The only problem I can see is your lack of a reference. The sort of employer you’re talking about usually wants a recommendation.”
    “Well, I’ve only recently come to England from France. Because of the war. How does anyone know that I didn’t have a fine position in my own Country? Perhaps my former employers were sent to an internment camp. That would explain why I don’t have a letter from them.”
    “I’ve told you before that anything is possible,” Elise smiled. “I think your explanation is excellent.”
    “All right, dear friend. I’ll speak to Violette and begin to pack my bag. We’ll start a brand, new life together.
     
    ***
     
    By June 1941, Giselle Dupris and Elise de Baier were firmly ensconced in a small, stone cottage. It sat in a quaint village named Thornton-on-Sea. Neither of them had ever heard of it before. Giselle had made a journey around the entire southeastern coastline, stopping at every house of a size to employ a staff of servants. It hadn’t been easy. There were a couple of residences offering the position of cook’s helper, and she wasn’t above accepting such work. But, she wanted to make certain something better wasn’t available. Finally, she’d come to Thornton-on-Sea. It was a charming seaside town, about one hundred miles past Brighton. The ancient manor of Highcroft Hall dominated the picturesque hamlet. It was built of red brick, covered in thick, green Ivy and wisteria. The main house was massive, with a pillared veranda that ran the length of the façade. At either end there were wings extending to the front. Giselle had never seen anyplace so beautiful. It sat high on a hill, over-looking the sea, and there were acres and acres of rolling green parkland, with rolling mounds in the distance. The moment she’d seen the exquisite mansion and its bucolic setting, she’d been enchanted and wondered if she might be lucky enough to find employment there.
    A very proper English gentleman opened the door when she knocked. His name was Richmond, and he was the butler. He was dressed in the traditional black, suit all