“The elevensies tray. Leave it here. There’s a
good boy.” Once I set the tray down, he held my
hand, wrapping his whole hand around my little
forearm. We were face to face now.
“Indeed. I shall check on you anon, my lord,”
I whispered.
He let go. “No need, no need, lad. I’ll be in the
library for most of the day. If need be, I’ll call for you.”
His voice was dismissive as he turned to business.
I took my cue. “As you wish, sir,” I said,
backing up, trying to stare intently at the elaborate
carvings in the four posters of the bed. I walked out,
feelings his eyes as I closed the heavy door.
Having attended first to my lord, I began
arranging tea for my staff meeting, pouring a cup for
each participant, and setting each with a small piece of
scone in case they felt peckish. Shortly, Hilda, the
youngest maid with a round face and red cheeks,
arrived first, and, bless her heart, with some fresh
milk.
“Morning. A nice thing you’re doing here, what
with the tea and all,” she said, pronouncing thing like
fing. “I’m completely knackered.”
“Thank you and good morning, Hilda. The milk
is most appreciated. And I’m striving to do well. I’m
sure I won’t please everyone, but our duty is first and
foremost to our lord.”
“Very stately of you.”
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