CHAPTER 14
“Your Grace.” Mr. Grimsby rushed out into the drive. “I had not expected you until this evening.”
Theodore had just returned from his time away, and though they had made good time, it had taken all of his effort not to push past the driver and steer the carriage himself. The flashes of countryside had stilled his urges, even as it felt like they were moving at a crawl.
“My business was concluded earlier than anticipated.” Theodore took his hat from his head, barely paying attention to the servants hurrying to unload the carriage as he walked towards the open doors of Irondale Hall. “Why are the windows open? And where is Phoebe?”
“Her Grace has instructed that the windows be opened once a day for one hour. Lady Phoebe is not to be left unsupervised when they are open and all the staff have been instructed to check the rooms regularly in case she wanders.” Mr. Grimsby explained as the footman took Theodore’s coat.
“I see.” Theodore looked around the hall, meticulously cataloguing everything Harriet had changed. “And she has bought new carpets as well.”
“Her Grace thought it would reduce distraction.” He could tell that Mr. Grimsby was watching his face closely for any sign of displeasure. “Though we can return them if they are not to your taste.”
“That will not be necessary.” Theodore ran a hand through his hair, taking several experimental steps forwards.
He was so used to the sound of echoing footsteps that the absence of them set his teeth on edge. The muffled sound felt strangely welcoming, as though it were simply a part of the space rather than a reminder of the emptiness around him.
Aside from their function, it was clear that Harriet had chosen the color and design with some care. They were not so bright that they were overwhelming, but nor were they so dark that they swallowed everything around them. They filled the space with an inviting air, making it feel cozy but not cramped.
Sunlight streamed through the castle and the smell of fresh flowers filled the air. He spotted several bunches in vases, all in near pristine condition.
“These are from the glasshouse?” He reached a hand towards one, delicately running a finger upon the petal.
“Yes.” Mr. Grimsby replied.
Theodore released the flower and clasped his hands behind his back. “What other changes has my wife enacted?”
He walked through the hallway, taking in everything around him. The suits of armor had been freshly polished, and several mirrors had been hung, making everything even more light.
“Her Grace has not touched your study, Your Grace. Nor your quarters. She felt it would not be appropriate to do so in your absence.” Mr. Grimsby fell into step beside him.
“I suppose that is something.” Theodore ran a hand across his chin, feeling the faint start of stubble beneath his fingers. “I am surprised she managed to do so much in such a short time. This place feels completely different.”
Is this what I married?He had chosen Harriet for her connection to Phoebe. She had changed his home, without discussing it with him – he should be furious, but he was not.
Mr. Grimsby was speaking and Theodore forced himself to pay attention. “She has even kept up with your rounds of the estate. I believe she has been following your route exactly.”
“Really?” Theodore stopped and adjusted a nearby mirror that was not quite straight, frowning as he did so.
“She felt it was important to take on the responsibility while you were away.” Mr. Grimsby explained.
“I am surprised she could fit it all in.” Theodore could not keep the admiration from his voice.I thought she believed my rounds were foolish.
What did it mean that Harriet had thought them important enough to maintain in her absence? “And what about Phoebe? How has she been?”
Mr. Grimsby brightened, his entire body straightening. “She has been happier than I have ever believed possible. She has joined the Duchess on her rounds, and Mrs. Morton tells me that her enthusiasm for her lessons appears to have increased.”
“That is good.” Theodore massaged the back of his neck, his heart skipping in a merry circle in his chest. “Has she been involved in this project?”
“A little. Her Grace has allowed Phoebe to suggest changes to her chambers and to pick flowers for the vases around the house. Though she has taken some pains to keep to Lady Phoebe’s schedule.” Mr. Grimsby gave Theodore what he suspected was supposed to be a reassuring smile.
Theodore nodded. “And where is my wife now?”
“I believe she and Lady Phoebe have gone to the stables. The Duchess’s riding tack arrived a few days ago, and Lady Phoebeexpressed an interest in learning to ride.” Mr. Grimsby checked his pocket watch. “They should return soon.”
“We shall have to get a pony for Phoebe if she is serious. We do not currently have anything suitable.”Riding? How much more has she convinced Phoebe to do?His heart felt lighter with each step as he took in the changes around him.
“I shall instruct the stablemaster to find something suitable for her.” Mr. Grimsby said.
