Page 14 of The Pleasure in Persuasion

The children called out to the woman, who smiled as they ran up to her.

Ah, then this must be Miss Grayling’s grandmother, Frederick thought, liking the warm smile on the older woman’s face as she greeted them.

“Well, this is a delightful surprise!” she said. “And what are you three little monkeys up to today?”

“We’re running errands for Mama,” Gretchen said proudly.

“We have new boots! See?” Willie stuck one skinny leg out to show her.

“Very smart, indeed,” Mrs. Grayling said with an approving nod. “And what’s that you have there, Miss Cathy? Is that a peppermint stick?”

Cathy gave a shy nod before popping the peppermint into her mouth.

“Our uncle bought one for each of us,” Gretchen explained.

“Well, and wasn’t that generous of him? I do hope you all thanked him properly.” Mrs. Grayling’s friendly brown eyes met Frederick’s.

“We did,” Willie assured her.

“Good day to you, madam,” Frederick said with a bow. “I am Frederick Darrington, Mrs. Marsh’s brother.”

“Delighted to make your acquaintance, Mr. Darrington. I am Charlotte Grayling. I run this inn with my granddaughter.”

“Miss Lily.” He nodded. “Yes, we’ve met.”

Her gray brows rose. “Have you? I didn’t know that.”

It was no great surprise to Frederick that Miss Grayling had not mentioned him, but it still smarted, and more than he cared to admit.

“Please forgive the interruption,” he said. “I can see that you are very busy. My sister sent us here to collect the milk and cheese she says you will have set aside for her...?”

“Oh, yes. Of course. I have everything ready and waiting for you in the kitchen. My granddaughter should be inside, and she will be able to help you.” Mrs. Grayling turned to the children. “As for me, I was just on my way to milk Blythe. Perhaps the children would like to come and help me?”

All three of them shouted their enthusiastic agreement, even shy little Cathy, and Frederick shared a smile with Mrs. Grayling.

“Thank you, madam,” he said. “I think the children would like that.”

How much help they would prove to be was less certain, he thought, as he watched Mrs. Grayling usher the children toward the barn.

He was almost sorry to miss the event.

But as he turned and headed for the inn’s front door, anticipation quickened his steps, and he smiled.

Almost, but not quite.