“I agree.”
Charles pointed to the flowers. “I did ask the lady to wrap up the most beautiful flowers.”
Henrietta took a moment to admire the bouquet. “I believe she succeeded.”
“Perhaps we can start over,” he suggested.
“I think that is a fine idea.”
He bowed. “Good morning, Henrietta.”
She dropped into a curtsy. “Good morning, Charles.”
“The weather is most lovely outside,” he said. “Were you able to go riding this morning?”
“I did, accompanied by two groomsmen, per my father’s instructions.”
Charles smiled. “You sound rather bothered by that, but I am sure he is only doing it for your safety.”
“I suppose so.” She bit her lower lip. “Has your company acquired any more relics?”
“I’m not entirely sure,” he replied. “I’m afraid I have been rather busy these past few days, but I do still intend to take you on a tour of the warehouse.”
“I would greatly appreciate that.”
Brixton and Marjorie rose from the settee and approached them. “We are going to take a tour of the gardens,” Brixton informed them. “Would you care to join us?”
Charles turned his attention towards Henrietta. “It is rather nice outside.”
“I think that is a fine idea,” she replied, setting the flowers down on a nearby table.
He extended his arm towards her and was pleased when she accepted it. They didn’t speak as they walked towards the rear of the townhouse. A footman opened the door and discreetly followed them outside.
Once they started walking along a path, Charles said, “You have a beautiful garden.”
“Thank you,” Henrietta replied. “It was my grandmother’s pride and joy.”
“Is that right?”
“My grandmother loved nothing more than spending her afternoons out in the gardens, working with the gardeners to achieve her purposes.”
“I’m afraid the gardens at my estate are rather lacking,” he confessed. “They could use a woman’s touch.”
Henrietta grew silent, and Charles turned his attention towards the trees that lined the path.
After a long moment, she asked, “Is this the estate where you intend for us to live?”
“It is,” he replied. “The manor is a decent size, but I am afraid no one has lived there for many years. I do employ some servants to keep it open.”
“And it was your grandmother’s manor?”
“It was,” he replied. “She inherited it after the death of her husband.”
Clasping his hands behind his back, he continued. “The estate is in Essex, near the River Blackwater,” he shared. “The views are extraordinary, and there are many paths to walk along in the woodlands.”
“I shall have something to look forward to.” Her voice distant.
Charles stopped and turned to face her. “Did I do something wrong, Henrietta?”
