“A solid history, then,” Gwyneth looked around her. “One wonders how many of your Ladies have sat in this very seat, enjoying such a conversation.”
“A good point,” mused Evan. “And I believe that notion deserves something sweet while we ponder.”
Jeremy grinned. “Ahhh. Excellent suggestion.” He rose to help Evan. “By the way, Trick and Jane were at church this morning.”
“Oh, how are they? I must pay a visit soon.” Giles turned back to Gwyneth. “The estate neighbouring this one is known as Fivetrees and is currently owned by the Fairhurst family.”
The name meant nothing to Gwyneth, so she merely looked interested.
“Trick, a nickname for Trevallyn Jones, was one of our gentlemen until last year. There were some unpleasant happenings, and he had to leave us for a while, during which time he became close to Mrs Barnsley’s daughter Jane. They wed just before Christmas.”
“And they are now working for the Fairhursts?” Gabriel chimed in. “I’ve heard the name, that’s about all.”
“Not exactly working,” said Jeremy, returning to the table with a delicious-looking Simnel cake, complete with the traditional eleven balls of marzipan.
Gwyneth’s mouth watered for the taste of the masterpiece Evan had created from fruits and almonds.
“Trick and Jane have agreed to be caretakers of Fivetrees, which is currently available for purchase,” Jeremy finished his commentary and set out plates.
“The current owner, Miss Judith Fairhurst—or I should say Lady Withersby, since she also married recently—has become my ward,” said Giles, accepting a piece of cake. “She resides in London with her husband; he has his own estates so she has no need to. or interest in, retaining Fivetrees. Her uncle, with whom she lived for a short while last year, died under mysterious circumstances, and the rest of the family washed their hands of it all.”
Gabriel gave a dramatic groan as he ate. “This cake, Evan…” he paused and placed his hand over his heart. “The best Simnel cake I have ever tasted.”
“I’m happy you like it,” grinned Evan. “I’ve always enjoyed making it. The scent alone reminds me that winter is on the way out and Spring lies ahead.”
“One can only hope,” said Royce, who had been quietly listening to the conversation. “Giles, the unpleasant circumstances you mentioned in relation to Fivetrees…can you elaborate on that?”
“Briefly. Some details should be omitted, I think. Not suitable for the dinner table.”
“Very well, but I’d like to have an idea of what happened…”
“Sir Amery Fairhurst was killed,” answered Giles, his voice level. “Poisoned in his own dining room.”
Silence fell for a minute or two, and Gwyneth stared at her cake, trying to absorb that pronouncement.
Gabriel recovered first. “Oh my God. By whom?”
Giles sighed. “We do not yet know the identity of the poisoner. There was a deal of incorrect assumption at the time. Lady Adalyn was, in fact, present when it happened, as was Trick. Information was laid against him, and that’s what took him away for close to six months last year.” He ate a small piece of cake. “Thankfully, his name has been cleared, so he and Jane are free to mind Fivetrees for Judith.”
“A relief indeed,” said Evan. “And I heard—from Mrs Barnsley, of course—that they might be giving us some happy news soon.”
Jeremy’s face lit up. “Really? Oh how wonderful. And how we shall be able to rag Trick about impending fatherhood.”
Gwyneth enjoyed the following responses, noting Giles’s amused grin, and Royce’s removed interest. He was listening—had been listening to every word. And Gwyneth would wager he’d remember who said what at exactly what moment. She could almost see his mind working to catalogue and store information, expressions, details…
He caught her looking at him and dipped his head politely.
She looked away and managed another small bite of cake. Delicious though it was, she knew she had reached her limit. Her back was starting to ache, her limbs felt exhausted and she wanted her bed.
Evan noticed. “My Lady, I am pleased you enjoyed your meal, but I sense it has also tired you. It’s your first time up this long…may I suggest you retire soon?”
Grateful for his observation, she nodded. “I am loath to leave, gentlemen, but I fear Evan is right. I am most content, well-fed—and beginning succumb to an annoying weakness.”
Royce immediately rose, just before the others did the same. “Allow me, my Lady.” He walked to her side and picked her up from her chair without hesitation. “Time for you to return to your room. With your permission I will convey you to your bed?”
His arms were firm, and his eyes pure blue as he stared at her. “You’re tired. Let go for now.”
Unable to resist, she nodded. “Thank you, Royce.”
