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“You must have some, too. You must be as chilled as I,” Holly insisted.
“If you’re sure, milady, I would appreciate a hot drink,” Matilda said, helping herself to the precious tea. “I’ll lay out your nightgown and shawl and then I’ll go and eat downstairs.”
“Check your chamber is adequate, and if it is lacking, I want you to tell me. In fact, if ever you find something not to your liking, I want your promise that you will speak out,” Holly insisted.
She was her stepmother’s daughter, properly instructed with the running of a large household which meant a fine appreciation of a good servant. Holly had been taught to take a servant’s needs into consideration; her mama had impressed upon her daughter that a happy home was only truly achieved with a contented staff.
“Yes, milady, thank you, but I am sure my room will be absolutely fine. Will there be anything else before I go?”
Holly shook her head. “No, you go and get something to eat.”
The door creaked, announcing Gregory’s return.
“I’ll be back later and help you retire, ma’am.” Matilda bobbed a curtsy.
He held the door open for Matilda, closing it behind her.
“Would you like some tea?” Holly enquired.
“Please.”
He roamed about the room, making her feel unsettled by his obvious restlessness.
“Are you not fatigued after a day in the saddle?” she asked.
He stopped his pacing.
“I am,” he replied.
“Well then, come and sit beside me before the fire. Why not take off your riding boots?”
He hesitated but suddenly flung himself down into the chair opposite her, on the other side of the hearth. She poured him a cup of tea and passed it across to him. They drank companionably; the room was quiet save for the rattle of the windowpanes caused by a rising wind and the occasional pop from a log on the fire. Holly broke the silence first.
“What time do you estimate we shall arrive at Lamberhurst on the morrow?”
“Perhaps midday; it rather depends on the time of our departure,” he explained and replaced his empty cup and saucer on the tray. Leaning down he began to remove his boots.
Holly set aside her own cup and slipped gracefully to her knees before him.
“Here, let me assist you.” Grasping the boot under his heel, she yanked. The boot came off with such speed she tumbled backwards in a flurry of petticoats and knocked the tea tray and accoutrements flying.
As she lay stunned, Gregory’s face filled her vision.
“Are you hurt?” he asked, bending over her.
Sitting upright she smoothed down her ruffled skirts.
“Did I break anything? She asked.
“Does anything feel painful?” He queried, and surprised her by sliding his palms down over her arms. She stared at him, bewildered.
“Whatever are you doing?”
“Checking to see if you have broken anything,” he said.
Holly giggled.
“I meant, have I broken any of the china!” She qualified.
