Chapter Three

Baltus led her into an enormous bedroom with elegant golden curtains, and silk bed sheets. Mary looked around in astonishment. She could hardly wait until all of this would be hers.

"Will this do, Miss Archer?" Mr. Van Tassel set her bag down by the bed before glancing at her.

"Of course, but isn't this a bit much for a sick nurse?" Mary really wanted to stay in that room. She had never imagined anything quite like it, even in her dizziest daydreams, but she felt the need to be polite in such a situation.

"Only the best for helping my dear Elizabeth" Mary practically cringed at her name, remembering her sickness.

"Thank you Mr. Van Tassel." Mary replied with a nod. She kneeled down beside her bag and started to unpack.

Baltus watched her intently, taking in every movement. "You may call me Baltus."

She glanced up at him, curiously. "Oh, no… I couldn't, it would not be suitable"

"I insist on it." Baltus made his way towards her. She could feel his breath on her skin. Mary's heart beat fitfully against her corset. Baltus ran a coarse hand down her back, making her jump. Mary could sense his smirk.

Suddenly the door thrust open revealing a small girl. Mary leaped to her feet, as Baltus stepped away.

"Katrina, dearest. I'd like you to meet Miss Archer. She's trying her best to help your mother." Baltus stepped towards his daughter as he gestured to Mary.

"That's lovely." Katrina mumbled in a sarcastic voice.

"Oh, isn't she darling." Mary cried and placed a hand on Katrina's shoulder, but she shrugged it off.

"Father, I want another pony." Katrina selfishly told him.

"Oh, Katrina. You have enough. You have no need for so many horses." Baltus stated nervously.

"I said, I would like another horse." Katrina demanded again. She was now on the verge of screaming.

"No need for such a temper, you're horse shall be here by tomorrow. I'll be sure of it." Baltus trembled.

"Very well." Katrina stormed. "Nice meeting you, Miss Archer." Katrina's sweet voice returned to her as she happily skipped from the room.

Mary was left more confused than ever. She lifted her eyes to stare at Baltus, an inquisitive look in her pure blue eyes. Baltus replied with a slight shrug.

"A little angel, is she not?" Baltus said. With that he trudged past her and down the stairs, leaving Mary alone in the brilliant bedroom.

"Yes, a perfect angel. That won't be to hard to fix." Mary smirked.