Page 26 of A Lord's Bet of Desire

Chapter 10

The carriage sped down a long cobblestone road, and at the end of it was Edward Pembroke’s estate. Great oak trees surrounded them, and Laura was filled with excitement. Although the estate was not as big as Sage Brook, it was stately and beautiful under the afternoon sun. Outside, the rest of the staff had already assembled in anticipation of Edward’s arrival.

Laura released Hortensia’s hand, who smiled at her affably. Laura was glad that she could be of help. It always frightened her when her mother suffered from the same fainting spells.

Laura poked her head out the window. “It’s beautiful.”

“It is a home, most importantly. There was a warmth to it when I first procured it. It’s well lived in.”

“Yes.”

Laura’s eyes met Edwards, and there was that shimmering handsomeness that she couldn’t pull her gaze away from. As the carriage came to a halt, Edward was the first to get out and put out his hand to help Laura. She reasoned that the servants must be so horribly confused by this gesture. But seeing their smiling faces, Laura wondered if it was common practice for Edward to be so kind. It was what Diana had explained to her.

Once Hortensia was out of the carriage, Edward made his way to the servants’ line, greeting each one as he passed. They all bowed and curtsied. The staff looked rather happy, something that Laura was not accustomed to. Edward reached the end of the line and greeted a man who appeared to be his butler.

“Harrison, this is Laura Hawkins. She’s the newest maid in our staff.”

Harrison nodded his head towards Laura. “We’re happy to have you.”

“I thank you. I am most grateful to be here.”

Edward clapped his hand onto Harrison’s back. “If you’ll show her to her room so she can get situated, I’ll attend to my affairs.”

“Very well, Your Grace.”

Edward walked away, and Harrison stepped in, taking Laura’s bag. “You’ll find the living quarters quite comfortable.”

“I do not require much.”

“Right this way.”

Harrison entered the estate with Laura following behind him. The first thing that Laura noticed was the remarkable domed ceiling in the entryway. On it were painted celestial beings and little cherubs, flying up high in the air. It was one of the most beautiful frescoes Laura had ever seen. The grounds were done in white marble, and a great winding staircase consisted of the same.

Servants flitted about, all in starched white uniforms. Harrison wore a black suit. The home was immaculate, and everyone appeared busy. Laura felt out of place wearing her maid’s uniform from Sage Brook. It was far less becoming. As she was led to the back of the house and down some stairs, Laura noticed how airy the home was. It crackled with life and beauty. Paintings lined the walls, and large vases were filled with fresh flowers.

“Your room is down here,” Harrison said.

Whereas before Laura was in the attic, she would now be in the basement. She secretly wished that the room would not be too dark. Opening the white door, Laura saw that her fears were unfounded. Although the room was on a lower level, large windows flooded it with light, and the small bed was made with fresh sheets. Laura wanted to laugh when she considered that she wouldn’t have to duck her head below a slanted ceiling ever again.

Harrison began to explain the room. “The commode is down the hall. Here is your closet.” Harrison opened the door to show her. “And you have your own private sink. Should anything not work, the staff will be willing to assist you.”

“It’s perfect.”

“Here we have an adjoining room.” Harrison knocked on another door and heard no reply. He opened it. On the other side was another room exactly like Laura’s. “Your flat mate is Diana.”

“Diana?” Laura’s eyes widened. She nearly shed tears for her former friend.

“She is currently working upstairs, but you’ll meet her shortly. You two are of the same age.”

“My friend at Sage Brook was named Diana.”

Harrison smiled. “Then I suppose it’s a happy coincidence.”

“Yes, I think so.”

“I will leave you to unpack your things. Your uniform is in the closet. Please change into it at your convenience and meet me upstairs.”

“Yes, sir.”

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