She laughed and shook her finger at him. “He is a little standoffish, I grant you, but not so very bad. Perhaps when you get to know him. Shall we invite them down for a visit?”
“I suppose we could,” he said reluctantly. “Charlesworth does appear to care for my mother. I’ll give him that.” He yawned. “We could have a house party once I’m well enough. Invite our friends. A shoot and a ball, perhaps.”
“When you’re well.” Kate would love a ball held in the grand hall. But she wasn’t going to count on it just yet. It may not suit Robert to stay here.
James brought in the tray of food.
“I’ll cut it up for you,” Kate said.
She fed Robert spoonfuls of buttered egg. He ate little before resting his head back on the pillow. “Thank you, sweetheart, my appetite isn’t quite up to scratch. Think I’ll sleep a while.”
“Good.” She placed the tray on a table, then removed the extra pillows from behind his back and smoothed his blankets. “Sleep, my love.”
“You will rest, too, won’t you, Kate? Promise?”
“I promise, Robert.”
“And not on that chair, either. I’m much better. Go to your bed.” His eyelids closed, and in a moment, he had slipped into a sound sleep.
She stood for a moment watching him, then went to draw the curtains. He hadn’t said he loved her. But she’d read it in his eyes and it was enough for now. He must get better, then their life together would really begin.
