Samantha spoke first. "Who tells you that you can just walk in at will, spit out whatever words come to mind, and then go mute when asked to explain more? Is it your ego that pushes you to assume these things?
"Because the person who asked you a question is the man in whose house you are currently standing. Have some shame at least and offer him a sensible response."
"Forget it!" Rochester said, chidingly with one hand raised. "I have bigger worries than someone coming to assume much airs in my house."
"But this man deserves to be put in his place," Samantha proposed.
"I agree," Eloise said. "But in all this, I am still being held back from getting on my way by now."
"And I am still,—" Rochester paused to bite on his lower lip, hurt in his gaze — "I am still in shock over what you've told me. And as much as I think everyone has a right to their feelings, I need you all out of my air."
"Including me?" Eloise said, feeling affected. "You want me to leave?" She asked again.
UNEDITED