Page 11 of A Spinster to Heal the Duke
He devoured every bite without further question, only saying, "Next course," when he finished one portion of the meal and was ready for the next.
When he finished dessert, the Duke asked, "You made all that? Not just the entree or a side in each course?"
Anne had watched him eat, smiling more with each bowl and plate cleaned. She happily carried the tray down and back up again to serve each course, pleased to see the Duke not only finally eating but enjoying her food.
"I made the entire meal, Your Grace," Anne said proudly.
I have no words,the Duke thought.Our time together has been strained since I crossed the threshold to this place. What could I say now that would complement the food and her skill without further, dare say, insulting everything and everyone else about this place.
"I will not disturb you any further this evening. I am glad you have eaten and even more pleased you seem to have enjoyed your meal, Your Grace," Anne said, clearing the table.
She left the room, and the Duke did not say anything further though he lay awake that night wondering what he could or possibly should have said.
The following morning, even without sleep, he was more amicable toward his hosts than he had been. He also joined the Drowtons at breakfast. He hardly noticed his pain making his way to the table until he reached the bottom of the stairwell.
As he stumbled, Anne was just in time to catch him.
"I was just on my way to see if you would be joining us this morning. I hoped I hadn't caused you to overdo it last night," she said in a more amicable manner than she had previously addressed the Duke with.
"No," he replied in a softer tone than she had grown accustomed to. "I shall dine this morning."
Anne turned away, but he could see a soft smile had graced her countenance.
When she smiles, it is as stirring as the first bite of her food,the Duke considered before shaking his mind of the thought.
Aloud, he said, "I appreciate your assistance, but I can manage. If you will please lead the way to the dining table."
"Of course, Your Grace," Anne replied.
As the Duke followed, he looked at painted portraits, busts, statuary, and other decorations adorning the house.
"I suppose there is a certain charm balanced with an aristocratic air here,"the Duke observed."Perhaps it seems less than what it is because you have so few servants about. It's not that unlike some of the other barons and viscounts I have stayed with for a hunting season."
Anne paused and looked around them.
"I suppose it is not so grand as where you must live, but it is the only home I have known since I was ten," Anne replied. "I guess it is good to know that we are no more or less than another of Grandfather's title."
When they reached the dining room, the table was already set. The Duke greeted Lord Reedley and Charles, but he was most eager to eat and relax in the parlor.
He had seen enough of his room for some time and hoped to pass the afternoon on the couch in peace with a full stomach of the cakes, muffins, and tea that set before him — and even a few slices of ham and bacon if his stomach could manage.
Jeremy and Charles attempted to make conversation with him, but the Duke kept all of his responses as brief as possible.
"It is good to see you up and about this morning, Your Grace," Jeremy observed.
"Please, call me Grandon, Sir. We are in your home, and you are my host. Let there be no titles," he replied.
"Very well, thank you, Grandon," Jeremy replied happily. "It is so good when we can lay down what divides us and come to the table together as men."
"Mm," Noah replied, stabbing at his food with his fork,
I should probably slow down. Eating so quickly is neither good for my digestion nor appearance,he thought.
"And you look much better today," Jeremy continued. "Perhaps I can persuade you to a game of Commerce this evening."
"We shall see," Noah replied. "It is early yet."
He speaks to me like he is an uncle I have come to visit. Doesn't he have any duties he must tend to? Property to check on?the Duke wondered.
