He needed a good meal under his belt, and it was time to present his problem to the men. It might reveal how they would go on without him, and at least he would have their input as to what to do next.
He knew, deep inside, that he would have to leave. Again. But he wanted to hear them say it, to endorse his course of action—and to prepare themselves for a new Lady of Wolfbridge.
ChapterSix
The dining room gleamed, a familiar and comfortable place that could seat six people or thirty with ease.
At this moment it was redolent with the fragrance rising from a roast of beef, still sizzling, and ready to be consumed by the four hungry men seated around the table.
“That looks…” Royce stared at it, and the assortment of vegetables Evan had prepared to go with it. “Magnificent.”
“Thank you,” grinned Evan. “I know you’re hungry, and Jeremy and I can always use a good evening meal.”
Giles carved and everyone helped themselves. There was little formality when it was just the gentlemen, and the sooner Royce understood that, the better.
“We’re fortunate in that the kitchen is only a few steps away,” he said, passing a dish of beans. “So Evan’s creations are always hot.”
“It’s appreciated,” nodded Royce. “Thank you.”
Pleased, Giles attacked his meal, suddenly aware that he was ravenous. And as always, Evan’s food was beyond delicious, especially this evening when he had presented a feast that would appeal to each and every gentleman present.
Plain, tasty and simple, it was satisfying, and the dishes emptied rapidly.
Conversation was kept to a minimum until the platters were almost bare. “Evan, you always surprise me,” grinned Jeremy, patting his stomach.
“How so?” Evan wiped a small spot of gravy from his chin with his napkin.
“You always get it right, my friend.”
“I try,” smiled Evan. “You never see the failures.”
“They probably taste good too,” said Royce. “You could out-cook most of London, Evan. Without question.”
“I’m glad you enjoyed it, Royce,” answered Evan. “It is your first real meal here, and as such I wanted it to meet with your approval.”
Royce leaned back. “I’m honoured. But from what Giles here tells me, it should meet with everyone’s approval, not just mine.”
“That’s true,” interjected Jeremy. “And from now on, that will be the case. But since you’ve just arrived, we do our best to make you welcome.”
“Appreciated.” Royce acknowledged Jeremy’s words. “So now we can proceed?” He shot a look at Giles.
“Indeed. It is time.” Giles pushed aside his plate and leaned his hands on the table. “There is much to discuss.”
Evan slid his chair back. “How about we clear and then meet for brandy?”
“An excellent notion.” Giles stood. “Royce, you are excused from such duties in honour of your first night.”
“Thanks,” he replied, “I will do my fair share from now on, though. I’ve plenty of experience with dishes.”
“Really?” Evan, his arms loaded with china and cutlery, raised his eyebrows.
“When you’re a soldier, you do as you’re told.”
“Ah,” Evan nodded. “Understood.”
“I’ll pop upstairs and check on Gabriel then…” Royce stood. “And brandy in the…what was it…Rose room?”
“Yes. Off the hall.” Giles watched his face.
