3
“Livvy, I won’t let you do this.” Her father gripped her by the shoulders and gave her a little shake.
“Papa, I have to do this. I cannot let you and Mama be tossed into the street. It is within my power to save you.” She glanced toward Mr. Banks and saw him smirking, as though her family dilemma was somehow amusing to him.
“The lady has made her choice, Hartwell. She comes with me. Tonight.”
“T-tonight?” She choked on the word.
“Yes, tonight.”
His cool reply made her dizzy. “I’m not ready. I can’t—”
“Tonight,” he repeated. “You may pack a valise, but bring no more than a few dresses. You won’t need them. I will provide you with suitable clothing for the position of my mistress. And you will not be given a separate house. You will share my home with me so I may have you at my beck
