“Why don’t you let me be the judge of that?”
“Very well, but remember, you asked for it. Most of my time is spent on renovations.”
“What kind?”
“Some decorating, but also some structural repairs. Since it’s just His Grace and a small staff, some aspects of the manor are… well, in need of attention..”
“Wouldn't that usually be handled by the housekeeper?” Rose frowned. “The repairs, I mean. I can understand the decorating falling a bit behind, but there shouldn’t much for you to oversee as far as upkeep is concerned.”
“It would, but you can understand how even with a capable house keeper things can fall by the wayside. Besides, even if everything was perfect, I would still want to put my own spin on things, make it feel like my home.”
“I can understand that. Did you decorate this room yourself?”
“I did! It was actually the first room I did. I’m surprised you were able to tell.”
“Of course I can tell. I can see your touch almost everywhere here.”
She smiled. “That’s kind of you to say.”
“What else have you done other than this room?”
“Most of this side of the house. Which reminds me, do try to stay away from the west wing.”
“Why?” she frowned. “Is something wrong with it?”
“I haven’t gotten to work over there, so it is a bit run down. It’s also where Christopher’s office is, so I’d like to make sure we don’t interrupt him while he is working.”
“I can understand that, but,” she hesitated.
“What is it?”
She shook her head. “Nothing.”
“Are you sure?” Veronica frowned. “It seems like you’ve got something on your mind.”
She glanced back at Milly. “It’s nothing.”
“Is this something we need to talk about when we’re alone too?”
“I don’t want to worry her.”
“There’s nothing I could say about my life here that would cause her any need to worry. I can assure you, so whatever it is you can feel free to ask away.”
She smiled, relife showing on her face. “Well, I am glad to hear that, but I still need to ask, does he treat you well?”
She smiled. “Better than I expected.”
“Why does that sound like you are avoiding my question?”
Veronica laughed. “I’m not. It's the truth. I had rather low expectations when I first arrived, but things have gone surprisingly well. We even picked the dogs out together.”
“You did?”
“Yes, we did.” She nodded. “It was a lot of fun. Over all, things have been…well.”
Rose sighed. “Well? Honestly sister! You must think I hardly know you if you believe I will let you get away with just that.”
In truth, Veronica did not want to acknowledge what had been growing between them, it was still too fragile. Too uncertain.
