Matthew felt the tightness in his throat as he saw Beryls hand shoot up, as if she were about to shove or even strike Rosie. The guests collectively held their breath. For a heartbeat time seemed to stand still.
But the blow never came. Matthew seized her wrist with a firm, unwavering grip. His voice was low but cutting.
Enough, Beryl.
She stared at him in disbelief, then forced a nervous laughthe kind that always masks a flash of fury.
Are you serious? In front of everyone? Defending a maid against me? You want to humiliate me?
Matthew released her hand, yet his gaze stayed cold, sharp as a knife.
It isnt about a maid. Its about respect. Anyone who cant respect others has no place by my side.
His words fell like stones into the hush. The guests shifted uneasily. Some ladies covered their mouths with gloved hands, the gentlemen averted their eyes. All understood: this was the end.
Beryls face went pale, a blush sliding across her cheeks, her eyes flashing with anger.
So youre saying you choose her? That… that nobody? she shrieked, pointing at Rosie with a contemptuous gesture.
Rosie stepped back, ready to withdraw, but Matthew waved her forward.
No, Beryl. Im saying I choose myself. I cant live with a woman who takes pleasure in belittling others. Its time you left.
A flash of fury crossed Beryls face.
Youre mad! Youll regret this! I was the one who put your name on the map, I attended every society event with you! And now youll toss me aside for a servant?
Matthew offered a faint smileone without a hint of warmth. With a simple gesture he indicated the doorway. The tall estate guard stepped forward and, with polite resolve, showed her the exit.
Beryl spun around, searching the crowd for allies. She met only icy, condemning or embarrassed looks. For the first time she was completely alone. She clenched her teeth, the tremor in her voice cracked, and she vanished into the night, leaving behind a heavy perfume and an even heavier silence.
Matthew sighed and turned slowly to Rosie.
Forgive me. You never deserved such humiliation.
Rosies eyes glistened with tears.
I shouldnt have had to endure that, sir. Im just a worker.
Youre far from just a worker. Youre a person, and tonight you showed more dignity than many here.
Someone began clapping. Then another. In an instant the garden rang with applause. The emotion washed over the guests like a wave: the truth had been recognized.
Rosie dabbed her tears with a trembling hand, unsure whether to smile or hide. Matthew took her handfirmly, openly, before everyone.
By my side should stand someone with a heart, not with haughtiness. Tonight I learned who truly deserves my respect.
Rosie was speechless. Her heart hammered, her cheeks burned. Sheonce the scorned maidnow sat at the centre of respect.
The guests watched in silent awe as the moment shifted. For them it was a lesson theyd never forget: wealth and extravagance amount to nothing without humanity.
That night the Cotswold villa was not a stage for smug laughter, but for honesty and dignity. And Matthew, having lost the woman he thought would be his future, had actually found something far richerrespect, freedom, and perhaps the start of a new story.
