Dianne Freeman

No matter how many times I publicly referred the servants and tenants to her, they still came to me with their questions and problems. And I admit, in private, I encouraged them

The words acted like a dousing of cold water. While definitely wide awake, I was incapable of any sound save a gasp, and a few inarticulate gurgles that were meant to be “Where?” and “How?” My vision blurred. My ears rang

It took a few minutes, but finally the room stopped spinning

The tears came harder. I blinked them away and choked back a sob

Oh, my! He was naked, wasn’t he? Well, I suppose if he could have chosen a way to die, this would have been it.

His lips curved upward, and I saw a hint of a crinkle around his green eyes

A chill of dread rushed over me

My fears dissipated like vapor

I was beginning to find Mr. Hazelton quite the puzzle. And I had to admit, I found his confidence quite attractive