ren't crooked. She double-checked the water level, stepped back, and gave a small nod to herself. It wasn't th

e pocket of free time. She debated slipping outside for some fr

ote with Alexander Ashbourne's initials. "Mr

polite nod and unfolde

he conservat

A.

rely did anyone use it. The room had a reputation among the staff-quiet, sun

ned entrance, smoothing her apron. She hesita

d through the domed ceiling, warming the tiled floor. Alexander stood by

he heard her. "May

s,

borate display of orchids, lilies, and baby's breath. "The conservatory hasn't been updated si

"You want...

row slightly. "Is

she admitt

oticed the little details. You handle the garden arrangements. You choose colo

respond. No one had ev

be open the space for weekend guests or reading," he continued. "What do

ower tables near the corners, something casual-iron or wicker, not polished wood

poke. "Interesting

felt a small bit of tensio

fficient. But you also pay atten

nts from her employer, especially one like Alex

he work proper

t underestimate the valu

"My mother spent a lot of time here. She always said peopl

nversation felt more perso

ck. "You don't say

shrug. "There's

continued, "You mentioned you'

"After my mo

's yo

sn't much

her

that," he s

y, but they landed with weight. May

een working without pause today. Go to

rowned

d the kitchen staff to prepare something

sure if that's

"It's a gesture, not a tran

ism and confusion. But eventually, she gav

her, the door clicking softly behi

l of the conversation. It hadn't been personal in a romantic sense. There

it had bee

s own quie

lready laid out for her: warm vegetable soup, crusty bread, and a small cup

around. No not

the

he kin

began to eat, unsur

behind a half-open door, a pair o

ame, arms crossed, lips curv

was being

uld change