Page 99 of A Tenuous Betrothal
“Oh, what a good thing to do. I quite like these East Wing servants.”
“They’re the ones to know if you want early news about the kinds of things Cook is baking up for dessert.”
They walked side by side, the water spread out in front of them in glorious blue splendor.
“This is not your typical gossip,” Rhi said. “It would require you to have real relationships with the servants. I’m impressed.”
He puffed out his chest in mock self-appreciation. “That I know all the bits of news no one else cares about?”
“Yes. I love that you care.”
He nodded, a slightly more serious expression lining his face. “Which means you do as well?”
“I do.”
He inched closer, their shoulders brushing. “Perhaps we shall be well-suited.”
“Perhaps. It is particularly intriguing that you have an interest in your servants.” She’d found something in common with one of Marc’s brothers and was pleased to be in his company. His inability to reassure her about Marc was concerning, but she expected Frederick to pay a visit that evening, and she would ply him for information then.
They followed a lovely path down the back steps to a boat-launching area. A small boat with a sail and team waited.
She rushed forward. “Are we to sail?”
“I thought it might be fun to actually participate in the race.” His grin widened.
“What! That sounds wonderful! Are we entered?”
“If you want us to be.” He waited, the adventurous glint in his eye making her smile.
Suddenly, that’s all she wanted in the world. She had control over so little. This was at least something immediate to work for. “Yes. Let’s win!”
He led her closer across the dock. “Ho, ho! We will do our best, won’t we, gents?”
“Yes, Your Highness.” The closest man nodded while doing something with the ropes. A great sail started to unfurl in the wind. The crew busied themselves with all the various things deckhands did. Even after the whole journey on the ship to Oldenburg, Rhi had not mastered an understanding of all their tasks, even so far as to know them by name. She wanted to board as much as she hoped to stay out of everyone’s way.
Karl pointed out into the bay. “These races were much more crowded last year. Now some of the British have departed our shores. Layton even sent some of our fleet to assist England.”
“Because Napoleon is no longer a threat to Oldenburg?”
“Oh no. That man will be a threat until he leaves this earth. England is fighting another skirmish with the British colonists.” Karl laughed. “Though they wouldn’t call themselves that. Americans, they’d say. And so the English required some of Layton’s fleet.”
She had not heard much about the new war.
“But come, let us prepare ourselves. The crew will need help, if you would like to join in.”
“I absolutely would. Thank you.”
Karl stepped aboard and then reached back to offer his hand.
His grip was steady and strong, and Rhi appreciated the attention and care he showed for her comfort.
Then laughing carried down to them, coming from behind. “Don’t leave without the most exciting Wilhelm,” Kristoff called out to them, hurrying down the docks.
“How could we?” Karl’s dry response belied the smile that grew on his face. “We’ve a race to join.”
“I knew she had it in her.” Kristoff mock-saluted and picked up his pace to a swift jog.
“A race towin, mind you.” Rhi held up her hand in greeting.
