“Then you know how hard it’s been for Jonathon and Bess, right?”
“I do now. And my mother…” his voice drifted off. “I have to find a way to make things right for her. I never knew the details of what she had endured for the sake of my brother and me, nor how much heartbreak she experienced. I feel so guilty for how I behaved and the pain I brought to her.”
“It isn’t a child’s responsibility to know these things. She was protecting you by keeping you innocent. As for your behavior, you acted like a normal child would have done in the same circumstance.”
“Would you think poorly of me if I confessed my desire to have my father exiled from Man?”
Vanessa was silent for a moment, trying to pick out the proper words. “I would never think poorly of you if you made a decision that was for the good for the whole community, as well as your family.”
“He will never be trusted again, nor is it right to have my mother endure his spite and anger. I was going to have Sir Landers approach him with the evidence and demand his resignation, and then appoint Sir Landers as the Head of State. I just struggle with the feeling that I am betraying him.” He sounded sad as he rocked her in his arms.
“He’s done nothing but betray you and the people who trusted him. Could we worry about that tomorrow? I want you to read a book to me. Being an adult is so exhausting!”
“I agree. Any book in particular?”
“Yes! Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, please.”
“I knew you would want that one. From the beginning?” Vanessa nodded eagerly snuggled herself under the tuck of Harrison’s arm. With a smile, he opened up the well-read book that he had previously set on the bed and began to read. The warm, rich tone of his voice soon lulled her into a deep, restful sleep that was free from all the grownup worries of the world.
***
Eventually, one must wake up from their dreams and face the world of reality.
“Vanessa? Master Harrison needs you to dress quickly and meet him downstairs.” Marie gently shook her.
“Huh? Is there something wrong? You’re shaking.”
“The Head of State and two of his advisors came unannounced and are waiting in the study. They are furious and are carrying documents.”
“Is Sir Landers here?”
“Not yet. A rider was sent to retrieve him.”
“Did Mr. Ansley say anything to you?” Vanessa asked, quickly rising and allowing the woman to help her ready.
“He was dreadfully cross and whispered that now was the time to pay for my betrayal and that I would regret the day that I was born. I’m scared,” the young maid admitted tears in her eyes. “He’s going to try to keep Edward from me; I just know it!”
“He’s not going to be allowed to hurt you, Edward or anyone else. Not if I can help it.” Vanessa promised, hugging her friend. “This is his final attempt to regain control and it won’t work. Remember, his pride dictates that he wins this battle, no matter what it costs him.”
“He’s going to tell everyone what I did and prove that it was my fault, not his.”
“What exactly did you do? All I know is what Bess shared. Please trust me, Marie. I can’t help you if I don’t know the details.”
The maid plopped down on the edge of the bed and hid her face. “He was always beating me. Not like Lord Harrison spanks, mind you. He used a whip over my shoulders until I bled. I begged him to stop and then offered my maidenhead in a desperate exchange for my safety. I knew that he no longer had relations with his wife since her affair, and it was the only bargaining tool that I could think of to save myself. He took me right there on the floor and hurt me terribly. When he was done using me, he ordered me never to say a word to anyone.”
“He raped you?”
“He said it was not rape because I consented. He also claimed that the Counsel would support him if I ever told anyone and that he would ensure that I was exiled from the island without so much as a penny to my name.”
“You did nothing wrong and protected yourself in the only way that you knew how. He took advantage of his position and used you. He is the one who broke his law, not you, and he knows it.” She held the women close and lovingly stroked her hair. “Can you keep a secret? You have to promise not to tell anyone, not even Edward.”
“Of course.”
“Harrison is going to make a motion to exile him from Man. Your testimony will solidify things, along with the other statements against him.”
“But…”
“Mr. Ansley will never comply with the law to attend the academy and be under Harrison’s authority, nor would it be safe to allow him to remain here and stir up discontent. Are you aware of his actions against the others?”
“Yes. He used all the apprentices, but they are fiercely loyal to Lady Ansley. They won’t say anything in fear of losing a permanent position in the manor.”
“Does he beat them as well?”
“Yes. They despise him, but are too afraid for their future.”
Vanessa sighed and tapped her foot. “I don’t understand why so many people are afraid to stand up for what’s right. I had this same issue in London against the Magistrate and Prime Minister. They were abusive, manipulative and greedy, yet people were terrified to speak the truth and remove them from power.”
“Fear is a strong motivator for self-preservation,” Marie said.
“I know it is, and these type of people know exactly how to use it as a weapon. One thing we have as an advantage is that the Head of State is very prideful and arrogant.”
“How is that an advantage?”
“He has to have the last word. He talks too much, and he will expose himself. Trust me.”
“I have no other choice but to trust you, do I?”
“Not if you want to be free of him. If he stays here, he will find a means of revenge, and we can’t allow that. He must be shut down.”
“Would it help if I spoke with the other girls?”
“Lady Ansley will handle them. They were present at our table last night, and Harrison said that she is talking with them about the benefits of coming forward with the truth. Follow my lead and say nothing to Mr. Ansley and, whatever you do, don’t show your fear. Confidence and a strong demeanor will make him nervous, and that will provide the opportunity for him to be careless with his words.”
“What are you doing?” Marie asked, wide eyed as Vanessa turned her long hair into a bun on her head, and held it fast with a snood and hairpin.
“I don’t have the clothing to present myself as a woman, but I do have the demeanor. Plus, my defiance to the Head of State’s dress code will irritate him. It’s another method of disarming him. Please wait in the hall and listen at the door. You will know the right time to enter.”
Vanessa glided down the stairs, chin held high and strong and felt the eyes of the household staff upon her. Harrison frowned slightly, meeting her at the bottom.
“Your hair— “
“I know. I have it this way for a purpose. Your father and his advisors are going to meet their future First Lady.”
The man grinned, kissed her cheek and nodded with approval. “Excellent. Sir Landers should be here at any moment, and the three of us can enter the study together.”
“How long have they been waiting?”
“Thirty minutes. Long enough to let them know that they are not a priority. The only thing that annoys my father more than being laughed at is being ignored.”
“I won’t get in trouble with you for rudeness, will I?”
“Just behave like a lady, that is all I desire. And please don’t kick anyone in the crotch.”
Sir Landers presented several minutes later and, with her hands in the crook of both men’s arms, Vanessa was led into the large study.
“I see that the genteel courtesy of rising when a lady entered the room isn't practiced in this country,” Vanessa commented. She nodded her thanks as she was handed a cup of tea and took the comfortable chair that
Harrison offered her.
“What is that woman doing here? And Landers? You were not invited.”
“Miss Pankhurst is a respected member of my household and my fiancée. It would serve you well to remember those facts. Sir Landers is also a member of the Counsel of Advisors, and since you brought the other two members, it is reasonable to assume that you are holding an official meeting. Therefore, it is a requirement that he attends.”
“There is no purpose in his presence here,” the Head of State said bitterly.
“Of course, there is,” Vanessa spoke up. “The laws that you fashioned state if two or more government officials meet in a non-social setting, all members of said counsel are to be present. It’s my personal assumption that you drafted this specific provision to prevent people from talking behind your back. Isn’t that correct?”
“This is no place for a female. You know nothing of legal matters.”
“A female who dares to speak against your misdeeds, you mean. Lady Ansley? Good morning!” Vanessa greeted the older woman. “Let me make you a cup of tea.”
“What is she doing here?” Mr. Ansley sputtered.
“I’ve attended every one of your meetings, husband. Why would this one be any different?” Lady Ansley asked casually, sitting next to Vanessa and gracefully accepting the cup.
“This subject matter is not meant for your ears.”
“Every subject matter is meant for my ears. Except, of course, for the things that you do to our staff when I am unavailable.” Lady Ansley said calmly, carefully sipping the hot beverage.
“What things are you speaking of, Lady Ansley? Please do share,” Vanessa asked innocently, peering at the red-faced man over the rim of her cup.
“Gladly. Shall we start with abuse? Or perhaps the rape of virgins? Take your pick and I will be happy to expound upon it.” Lady Ansley repeated the girl’s actions.
“You lying whore! How dare you speak lies against me!” The man stood up and pointed his finger. “The words of an adulteress will not be believed by anyone!”
“Perhaps not,” the older woman said, setting the cup and saucer down to hide the trembling of her hands. She reached to pat Harrison’s hand that rested with reassurance on her shoulder. “But the testimonies of four women will be. Four virgins who were forced by you to abandon their innocence.”
“That is ludicrous. I’ve never touched any of them, and you can’t prove otherwise. I demand that you are to leave this room immediately.”
“Written testimonies delivered to the parliament should be sufficient proof, wouldn’t you say?” Vanessa took advantage of the shocked silence and continued, looking straight at the other two men. “I’ve also heard rumors that the Head of State is not the only one who has made a happy indulgence with innocent girls brought into the home as apprentices. Should we also call in the ladies from your households, gentlemen?”
“I have never touched any of my servants!” one man raged, wiping his forehead with a kerchief. “I only punish them for transgressions.”
“No? Perhaps your son, then? I’ve had several interactions with him before his removal from the program.”
“I am not responsible for my son’s actions. He is an adult.”
“Quite the contrary. The law dictates that the head of the household is responsible for the conduct of the members of his house and that he is to ensure that they abide by the precedents set by the governing officials. Am I correct, Sir Landers?” Vanessa asked with a raised brow.
“You are indeed, my dear. The statutes further state that breaches of the Code of Conduct by a governing official is grounds for immediate dismissal. Did you or your son violate or abuse any of the women under your care?”
“No!”
“Your son resides in your home, does he not?” Vanessa asked. “Even if he is an adult, you are still responsible for any damages that he commits. Failure to take action on your part would, therefore, make you an accomplice to his crimes. Harrison? What measures would be taken against one who harbors a criminal and who deliberately refuses to accept parental responsibility?”
“He would be publicly removed from office and caned, and then be required attendance in the Academy for an indefinite period. Failure to comply would result in exile,” Harrison said.
“That seems to be awfully harsh. Wouldn’t a better approach be for a quiet resignation and the voluntary departure from Man?”
“It would be, but if Mr. Keyes and his son are as innocent as he claims, then those actions would not need to be considered.”
“My son has a sickness. He can’t help himself,” the heavy-set man sputtered, his face beading with sweat.
“Did he or did he not violate the law, Mr. Keyes?”
“He did not!”
“It appears that we have no choice but to request witnesses. Sir Landers? Will you kindly send a runner to Mr. Keyes’ home and have him gather the apprentices for questioning?” Vanessa requested. “We already have Lady Bess’ statement as well as mine on file.”
“I assure you that there is no need. My son is planning a trip to Europe very shortly, but I will have him removed from the house immediately.”
“Hmm, that sounds like a confession of guilt. How do you intend to pay for your transgressions against the laws of your country and these women?” Vanessa held her cup out for more tea, her gaze unwavering.
“I will show my full support in whatever is needed to ensure that our women's safety and welfare is of the utmost priority.”
“And you?” Vanessa glanced at the other man who was frequently wiping his hands on his pants. “Is there anything that you have to say before we call in witnesses to your indiscretions?”
“I pledged my support to this country, not to a person,” he said nervously, trying not to glance at the furious Head of State. “Whatever is required of me, I will give you.”
“You are cowards! Both of you! Are you going to allow this little snippet of a female turn you against me?”
“Father, it seems as though that is what they are willing to do. You see, self-preservation is a vital factor when it comes to survival. You depended on that very thing to keep Mother and those girls in your control, and now it’s over for you.”
“You have no proof. I demand that you cease this nonsense at once.”
“Pardon, Lord Harrison, but may I say something?” Marie asked, timidly stepping inside of the room.
“Of course, you may.”
“Get that cunt out of here! She is a whore who will spread her legs for any man that promises her riches!” The Head of State shouted.
Held protectively against Sir Lander’s body, Marie shared in detail the abuse that she had endured under the hand of the Head of State.
“She lies. This is a lie told by a child who needs attention, nothing more.”
“I only have one witness to what occurred. Lady Ansley?”
“She tells the truth. I was angry with her for gaining his interest, but then I heard her weeping in her room. She had been blooded and taken by force. The child could barely move for several days after.”
“This is preposterous! I would never do such a thing!”
“Marie?” Vanessa stood and placed her hands on the girl’s shaking shoulders. “May I see your shoulders?”
Nodding, the young woman turned and allowed the back of her dress to be peeled away to expose several long, thin scars that crisscrossed over her flesh. She began to weep shamefully against Sir Landers chest as Vanessa returned the dress to its proper place.
“I think that is more than enough evidence. I want you out of my country, you sadistic bastard,” Harrison growled. “You have until tomorrow night to disappear, or I will announce to everyone what you have done to Marie, my mother and the innocents of Man.”
“You have no right to exile me. I am the Head of State and have absolute authority here.”
“You did until you broke the very laws that you put in place to support your position and cover your abu
se. We have representatives of the two houses of the High Court of Tyndale present, and I move that a vote of no confidence be cast to remove the Head of State from his position. I also demand that he be placed in immediate exile from Man.”
“You have no right!”
Harrison ignored him and continued. “We can operate the parliamentary procedure here, or we can hold a full court next week and invite the commoners to witness the hearing and the formal declaration of exile following a public caning.”
“I vote that we proceed here.” Sir Landers said, his eyes narrowed as he continued to hold Marie next to him. “I see no reason to subject our people to this repulsive behavior and betrayal of trust.”
“I second that vote,” the other two men said quickly.
“All in favor?” Harrison asked, watching hands as they quickly raised. “It’s unanimous. Father, I am generously offering you one final choice. You can preserve what is left of your dignity and resign from your position prior to leaving the country, or you can stand before the parliament in a public trial which will have the same results in addition to a public caning. Which will it be?”
“You are my son. How could you treat me like this?”
“How could you deceive our nation and subject our women to your cruelty? I’m losing patience so I will make the decision for you. Sir Landers, will you please escort the former Head of State from my home and see him on the next available ship outside of Her Majesty’s realm? Feel free to take Edward and Jonathon to assist you in the event he becomes belligerent and requires additional persuasion.”
Sir Landers nodded, handed Marie over to Vanessa, and then held the door open for the raging man to depart. Mr. Ansley paused in the doorway and glared hatefully at his wife.
“I will not grant you a divorce, you ungrateful bitch. You will live in poverty before I allow you to live in my home or be supported by my resources. That is the price you will pay for betraying me.”
His Lordship's Lap Page 21
