The Duke's Innocent Mistress (PM #1) (Completed)

Chapter 3. 1812 

WARNING: this chapter contains a scene of assault.
***
George smiled with triumph, placing the neatly folded notes into his pocket. "Thank you. I do hope you have arranged transportation."
Olivia glared at him, placing the purse with her remaining 500 pound note back into the box. "I have. I am leaving within the hour. You will never see me again."
George. "I see. Well, I must say I am glad to be rid of you."
Olivia. "I'm glad you feel that way, because I no longer wish to be in the presence of a bastard like you."
George raised his right hand and slapped her across the face. "Good, because I never want to see you again."
Olivia staggered back, holding her left cheek. She stared at her cousin for several seconds, and then wordlessly turned away from him. Retrieving her purse from the box, she opened her closet and pulled out her dark blue cloak. Sliding it over her shoulders, she grabbed her purse, slipped it into the pocket of her cloak, gave her cousin one last look, and stepped out of the room. Without looking back, she exited her childhood home and climbed into the carriage that was waiting for her.
Colton climbed into his seat after receiving his payment. "Where are you headed today?"
Olivia took a breath, knowing the arrangement she had made two days ago was already set in motion. She would not be persuaded to change her mind. "Take me to Morgan Park."
As the carriage began to drive toward the destination, Olivia settled back against the tufted seat of the vehicle, closing her eyes and clutching her purse against her chest. For the last two days, she had been involved in a correspondence with London's finest matchmaker, hoping she would be able to help.  Once she received confirmation that assistance would be given, she felt relief flow through her. At Long last, her life held Hope and promise.
***
10 minutes later, Olivia felt the carriage come to a stop. Taking a breath, she opened the door and stepped out. She didn't even say goodbye to Colton, her attention was immediately drawn to the majestic estate before her.
The outside was composed of white stone with powder blue trim along the windows and roof. A large and luxurious looking garden stretched around the entire house. There was a small winding pathway leading up to the front door.
Taking a breath, Olivia walked up the pathway and approached the front door. Raising her fist, she knocked three times and waited for someone to answer. Her heart was pounding against her ribs. Everything had to go smoothly.
The door opened a few moments later, and a gentleman dressed in his finest black and white livery stood before her. He had salt and pepper hair and dark brown eyes. He looked at her quizzically. "May I help you miss?"
Olivia took a breath. "I am here to see Miss Vivian Morgan."
The Butler, Nixon, nodded. "May I ask your name?"
Olivia. "Miss Olivia Rochester."
Nixon nodded again. "Do you and Miss Morgan have an appointment?"
Olivia nodded. "Yes, we have been corresponding with one another these last few days. She asked to meet me today."
Nixon stepped aside, allowing her into the house. He escorted her to the parlor, motioning for her to sit down on a dark blue couch by the window. "I will let Miss Morgan know you are here Miss Rochester."
Olivia gave him a smile. "Thank you."
Smiling briefly, Nixon turned and left the room.
Alone, Olivia had the opportunity to gaze around the room. It was extremely beautiful. The walls were powder blue with cream trim. There were three tall glass windows overlooking the gardens. White and powder blue fluffy carpet lined the marble floor. She had a feeling that the rest of the estate was just as magnificent.
The door to the parlor, which Nixon had closed upon his exit, opened softly. A lovely woman with chestnut brown hair and crystal blue eyes entered the room. She was wearing an elegant gown of dark red silk with three pearl buttons. She smiled sweetly. "You must be miss Olivia Rochester."
Olivia nodded, her heart hammering. She swallowed before returning her companions smile. "Yes I am. You must be Miss Vivian Morgan."
Vivian closed the door behind her. "Yes. I understand that you are in need of my assistance."
Olivia felt her skin become warm. Vivian's voice was sweet yet sultry. She swallowed hard. "I am. As I mentioned in my letters, I wish to have new employment."
Vivian nodded understandingly. "I see. Well, I will ring for tea and we will have a chat."
Olivia smiled. "All right."
Vivian walked over to the silver Bell that was attached to the far wall of the room, ringing it once. "Have a seat my dear, I will be able to help you."
Olivia took a seat on the couch, her heart lifting with Hope. For the first time in five months, there was promise in her life.