The second course was then served, a rich venison stew with root vegetables, followed by a third course of freshly baked bread and a light leek and potato soup. Aiden tried to turn his attention away from Katie and toward the culinary delights and conversations that buzzed around him. Still, his eyes often strayed to Katie, and his desire for her touch ignited.
As the plates were cleared and the conversation continued, Griselda leaned over to speak to Aiden, her voice carrying a note of genuine interest. “Aiden, how are ye findin’ the feast this evenin’? I trust the food and company are to yer likin’?”
Aiden glanced up, his eyes meeting Griselda’s with mild surprise, as though he had been pulled from a deep reverie.
“Aye, Maither, ‘tis a fine affair,” he said, his voice measured and polite. “The food is excellent, and the guests seem pleased.”
Aiden hoped that no one could detect that his demeanor was not a reflection of his feelings for Katie, but he worried that Katie would find it difficult not to feel the chill of his indifference.
As the evening wore on, the laughter and music continued, a stark contrast to the turmoil within Aiden’s heart. He tried to maintain his composure and engaged the guests in polite conversation, but his thoughts remained fixed on Katie.
The hall was filled with the warm light of chandeliers and the heady aromas of the feast. Aiden’s intense gaze once again settled on Katie and slowly ran the full length of her body and rose up to meet her confused stare. He nodded to her in brief acknowledgment before he turned away again.
As the evening progressed and the fourth course was served, Griselda leaned closer to Katie, her voice low but warm, ensuring their conversation was private amidst the ongoing festivities.
“Katie,” she began, glancing around the room, “I wanted to take a moment to explain a bit more about yer future role here as the lady of the castle. ‘Tis nae just about the grandeur and the social events. There are many aspects to this position that might nae be immediately apparent.”
Katie was intrigued by Griselda’s statement and grateful for the guidance. She nodded attentively. “I’d appreciate that, Griselda. I’ve had some schooling in running a household, so I understand the basics, but I’d love to hear about the specifics of managing such a large estate.”
Griselda smiled approvingly. “Of course. The first thing ye’ll need to grasp is the importance of the daily operations. Take Mr.Caldwell, for instance,” she said, pointing to a man overseeing the serving of the dishes. “He’s our butler, responsible for the smooth runnin’ of the household. His role includes everythin’ from managin’ the servants to ensurin’ that supplies are ordered and safely stored.”
Katie nodded, her eyes following Mr. Caldwell’s efficient movements. “Of course. What about the handling of the accounts and budgets? How is that managed here?”
Griselda’s eyes twinkled with appreciation at Katie’s insight. “We have an accountant who works closely with Mr. Caldwell. They manage the estate’s finances, includin’ the budget for staff wages, maintenance, and supplies. Regular audits are done to ensure everythin’ is in order.”
Katie leaned closer, visibly interested. “What about the scheduling of events and the allocation of resources for feasts and other occasions? I imagine that requires careful planning.”
Griselda nodded. “Indeed. The plannin’ of events is a collective effort. We consult with the head cook, Mrs. Jennings, and the steward to coordinate the menu, seatin’ arrangements, and the overall logistics. ‘Tis important to keep detailed records and communicate clearly to ensure everythin’ goes off without a hitch.”
Katie listened intently, absorbing the details. “Anything else you’d like me to know, my Lady?”
Griselda smiled, pleased with Katie’s understanding. “Aye, maintainin’ relationships is vital. We have a network of trusted suppliers who provide everythin’ from foodstuffs to textiles. Regular visits and personal interactions help strengthen those bonds and ensure we receive quality goods.”
Katie’s eyes brightened as she considered this. “That makes sense. And what about the apprentices and young staff? How do you support their development?”
Griselda’s expression softened. “We provide them with trainin’ and opportunities to learn their trades. Their growth is important, as it supports nae only their futures, but also the well-being of their families. We also have programs in place to ensure their safety and fair treatment.”
Katie glanced around, taking in the bustling activity of the hall. “It sounds like a complex and rewarding responsibility. I’m eager to make a positive contribution. I’m familiar with household management, but the scale here is impressive.”
Griselda’s face lit up with warmth. “I’m glad to hear ye say that. Yer background will serve ye well, and I’m here to support ye in any way I can. Remember, ‘tis nae just about managin’ the household—‘tis about nurturin’ the people who make it function smoothly.”
Katie glanced over at Aiden, who was now engaged in a lively conversation with his brothers. They seemed relaxed and content, their laughter mingling with the music playing in the background. Aiden’s attention appeared divided between theperformers and the servants, his current demeanor a stark contrast to his earlier coldness.
Katie’s heart ached with mixed emotions as she observed him. The sight of him enjoying the evening surrounded by family and friends reminded her of the complexity of their relationship. She wished for a connection that went beyond the formalities and miscommunications.
Griselda continued, her tone gentle yet firm. “I know this is a lot to take in, but ye’re more than capable. You have a natural grace and kindness that will serve ye well. And dinnae forget that I am here to help you every step of the way.”
Katie offered a grateful smile, feeling reassured by the woman’s words. “Thank you, Griselda. Your support means a great deal to me. I’ll do my best to fulfill my duties and contribute to the household in a meaningful way.”
As the two of them chatted, the mood in the hall remained vibrant and celebratory. The music played on, the performers entertained, and the guests enjoyed the feast. Katie felt a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that her role was integral to the well-being of the people around her.
The conversation between Katie and Griselda continued, their voices blending with the ambient sounds of the feast. Katie felt a sense of calm as she engaged with Griselda, appreciating the guidance and support she offered. It was a small step toward finding her place in this new world, and she was determined to make the most of it.
Griselda’s comforting presence and the warmth of the guests offered some solace, but Katie couldn’t ignore the ache in her heart. She knew that the evening was far from over and that there were many more faces to meet and conversations to navigate. For now, she focused on the task at hand, determined to make the best of the situation while holding on to the hope that, somehow, things would change for the better.
CHAPTER 13
As the laughterand music filled the hall, Katie took a deep breath and prepared herself for the rest of the evening, hoping that amidst the grandeur of the feast, she might find a glimmer of understanding or a sign of the connection she so desperately sought with Aiden.
