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He enquired about her day, and she shared about her duties of mending linen, caring for the chickens and livestock, and organizing the running of the household.
“You do so and not your mother?”
“She has little energy to attend to such matters.”
He nodded. “She is a kindhearted woman.”
“That she is.” How touching he would recognize that quality about her mother. “Some people take advantage of her kindness”—like Grandfather—“but I think her uncomplaining spirit is to be greatly admired.”
“You possess that too,” he observed.
“’Tis kind of you to say so, but I’m afraid I would never be as considerate as she. For while I may not express my complaints, it does not mean I do not feel them.”
He chuckled, and the sound warmed her.
Conscious of her disinclination to permit softer emotions from seeding in her heart, she hurried on. “You must forgive me, sir, I should have asked before. Do you have anyone you may care to have come visit and alleviate this boredom?”
“I’m not bored,” he protested.
“Then you are not truthful.”
“Miss Stapleton, I must object. What with discussions with builders and your cheering presence, I have not had time to be bored.”
“Hmm. Well, if there is someone you should care to invite, then please feel free to do so.”
“Thank you.” He leaned forward and adjusted the pillow behind him. “Speaking of visitors, I, er, believe I heard a scratching sound last night on the door.”
“That was most likely Maisie.”
“Maisie?”
“Our supercilious cat. She thinks herself quite above us all but will likely condescend to visit you, especially as you are so famous.”
He smiled. “I shall look forward to her company.”
“If there is anyone else apart from our cat, please don’t hesitate.”
“I should not impose upon you further. You already do so much.”
“Oh no. I’m afraid you mistake my efforts for those which are done by the servants who are put tosuchtroubling lengths as your presence demands,” she teased. “But just between us, it would do me a world of good to know their time is being gainfully employed. They aresoprone to bouts of lethargy, especially now with Grandfather taken to his sickbed. It’s as if they scarcely know what to do with themselves.”
“A habit picked up from their mistress, perhaps?”
“Mama?” Her chest flared with offense.
“You.”
She recognized the jest in his eyes and dropped her gaze. “I am quite the lady of leisure, that is so.”
“Nobody could think so,” he objected. “You are the one who keeps this household running so smoothly.”
“I’m sure you are mistaken, sir. The servants answer to Mama.”
“Yet are handled by you. You really are quite the skilled manager, are you not?”
Heat flushed her cheeks. “If you insist on such nonsense, I’m afraid I shall have to leave.”
“And run away again? You disappoint me, Miss Stapleton. I thought you possessed more mettle.”
