Page 14 of When He Was a Duke
“Yes, sir.”
“During the summer party, this is where the guests will gather fortheir croquet and games. And just over there, beyond the hedges, is our maze. We keep it trimmed at all times.”
Sebastian’s gaze swept across the expanse, taking in the grandeur of the estate. “How many gardeners do you employ?”
“Six to eight. Your priority will be the roses, as it seems you know what you’re doing. Like I said, they’re important to the family.”
“I can do whatever you need. I’m strong and I grew up working in gardens.”
Thorncroft continued to inspect him, as if he were suspicious of his intentions. Or was that simply a result of Sebastian’s paranoia? Given that he did have dishonest reasons for being here, he worried his charade needed more refining.
“Don’t take this the wrong way, but you talk kind of fancy for a gardener,” Thorncroft said.
“My mother was educated but was forced out of Society.” He’d prepared that answer should it come up. Hopefully, it was a good enough explanation for his new employer. “But she educated me herself.”
“That so?” Thorncroft nodded, as if he’d like him to elaborate.
“I assure you, I can do the work and be thankful for it, regardless of the extent of my vocabulary. I’ll be proud to tend to the roses and whatever else needs doing.”
“Very good. Lady Rose spends a great deal of time outside. My aim is to surround her with beauty.” Thorncroft’s voice warmed. “Finest young woman you’ll ever meet. Lost her mother young. Staff here would do anything for her.”
Sebastian kept his expression unreadable. Lady Rose, beloved and sheltered, while Sophia had grown up under cruelty. The contrast stung. A fire lit in his belly. He would make this right. Even if he died trying.
They were nearing the rose garden again when Thorncroft stopped abruptly. A slim figure stood by one of the trellises, her darkhair twisted into a knot, bonnet dangling down her back.
“That’s Lady Rose,” Thorncroft said. “Best give her a moment.”
It was then Sebastian noticed she was crying. Not admiring the roses at all, but dabbing her eyes with a lace handkerchief, her shoulders trembling.
She must have heard them, because she straightened and quickly restored her composure.
“Mr. Thorncroft. Good morning.” Her voice was graceful and melodic, though Sebastian caught the strain and sadness beneath it.
“My lady, apologies for intruding.” Thorncroft bowed, removing his cap.
Sebastian followed suit, heart thudding unexpectedly. She was beautiful. Dewy skin, expressive mouth, and striking green eyes that shimmered with pain.
“Are you quite all right, my lady?” Thorncroft asked gently.
“Oh yes. Quite well.” She hesitated, then added, “The gardens are especially lovely today. You must extend my gratitude to your staff. You’ve all done such a remarkable job.”
Thorncroft seemed to grow several inches. “Thank you, Lady Rose.” He gestured toward Sebastian. “This is Sebastian Doyle, our new gardener. I’m showing him the grounds.”
Her gaze shifted to Sebastian. For a moment they locked eyes. A thrill went through him, almost like one would experience when seeing a long-lost friend. Or lover? Someone familiar at any rate. He lowered his eyes.
“Mr. Doyle. I saw your arrival this morning. I hope you find the work to your liking.”
“Thank you, my lady. I’m honored by the opportunity.”
“I’m quite fond of our gardens. They were my mother’s sanctuary, as they are mine.” Her tone held the weariness of grief that remained after the loss of a parent. He understood it only too well.
“I’ll do my best to meet Mr. Thorncroft’s standards,” Sebastian saidquietly. He glanced up and found her eyes once again. They were the green of a mountain stream, impossibly clear.
She gave a small nod, sighing. “I must return inside. Much to prepare for the house party.”
“We’ll have everything perfect for your guests,” Thorncroft said.
“I know you will, dear Mr. Thorncroft. You always do.”
