“How enlightening.” Greta stared sharply at Jenny while her hand returned to her necklace.
Andrew sat back and crossed his arms pleased that his son was gaining in confidence. “A fascinating subject, William. Please tell us more.”
William reddened and launched into a discussion of his favorite subject. As he began to describe the Byerly Turk, Andrew, with a degree of amusement, felt Greta sag back against the cushions beside him. He must take her to London to dine with her friends. This was all too unfamiliar. Once she became more acquainted with English ways, she would enjoy the Season in London as well as their time spent in the country. And surely, she would come to love the children. What woman could not? Why even Miss Harrismith, who sat listening intently to every word William uttered, while preventing Barbara from jumping up, was obviously very fond of them.
William came to the end of his discussion and gazed expectantly at Greta.
“Thank you, William. That was… most educational,” Greta said.
Andrew smiled warmly at his son. “Your knowledge is impressive, William.”
Barbara managed to evade Miss Harrismith and slid off the sofa. “William knows everything!” she declared in a loud voice.
Her brother grinned at her.
It pleased Andrew to see how fond of each other they were.
“Perhaps I should take the children for a walk as they’ve finished their tea, Your Grace?” Miss Harrismith suggested.
“Yes, thank you, Miss Harrismith.”
When the door closed on them he turned to Greta. “Now you know all about breeding horses.”
“I do hope so…” With a smile, she reached out to bring him closer.
The door opened, and Raymond strolled in. “Well, here you are. I could do with a cup of tea, I just rode from the village.”
“Ring for a fresh pot, Ray,” Andrew said. He rose. “I shall join you before dinner, Greta.”
She pursed her lips and nodded.
“My secretary wishes to see me, but come to the library in a half an hour, will you, Ray? There’s something I need to ask you.”
Raymond turned from smiling at Greta. “Very well, Andrew.”
Andrew left the room feeling unsettled. The sense of order he’d wished for in his life seemed further away than ever.
