Page 18 of A Rogue to Resist
Katherine opened her mouth to argue further but was interrupted by the arrival of Mr. Thompson and Rosabel, who had finally caught up to them.
“Your Grace, my lord, my lady,” the steward said with a deferential bow. “Begging your pardon, but Mrs. Finch has sent word that refreshments are prepared back at the house.”
“Thank you, Thompson,” Lord Greythorne replied. “We’ll return shortly. First, I’d like your professional assessment of these fields.”
The steward shifted uncomfortably, his gaze darting between Katherine and his new employer. “They’re excellentlymaintained, my lord. Lady Katherine has implemented several innovative farming techniques that have significantly increased yields.”
“And if these fields were returned to the main estate?” Lord Greythorne pressed. “What impact would that have on Lady Katherine’s dower property?”
Thompson hesitated, clearly reluctant to be drawn into the dispute.
“You may speak freely,” Katherine assured him. “I value honesty. My feelings are made of sterner stuff than you’d imagine.”
The steward nodded gratefully. “In that case, my lady, the loss would be significant. These fields represent nearly a third of Willow Park’s arable land. Without them, the property’s self-sufficiency would be severely compromised.”
Lord Greythorne frowned. “And the impact on Greythorne estate, if they were to remain separated?”
“Less severe, my lord, but still considerable. The home farm needs expansion if it’s to support the estate properly. These fields would be ideal for that purpose, given their proximity and proven fertility.”
Katherine watched Lord Greythorne’s expression carefully as he absorbed this information. His face revealed little, but she sensed his mind working through the implications.
“Thank you, Thompson,” he said finally. “That will be all for now.”
As the steward bowed and retreated, Katherine found herself studying Lord Greythorne with reluctant curiosity. He was nothing like his predecessor.
Where Edmund had been slight and fastidious, almost feminine in his mannerisms, Drake Halston was all masculine authority. His broad shoulders and commanding presenceseemed to fill any space he occupied, and there was a restless energy about him that suggested a man accustomed to action rather than idle society pleasantries.
Yet there was intelligence in those watchful eyes, and a certain shrewdness that reminded her to remain vigilant. Handsome he might be, but that only made him more dangerous to her hard-won peace.
“Shall we return to the house?” Rosabel suggested, breaking the momentary silence. “I confess I’m quite parched after our walk.”
They made their way back toward the manor house, Katherine deliberately slowing her pace to walk with Rosabel while Lord Greythorne strode ahead.
“What do you make of him?” Katherine asked in a low voice.
Rosabel considered the question thoughtfully.
“He’s not what I expected,” she admitted. “There’s a directness to him that’s almost... refreshing, after Edmund’s constant dissembling.”
“He’s arrogant and presumptuous,” Katherine countered.
“True,” Rosabel agreed with a small smile. “But not without cause, it seems. He clearly understands estate management, and he’s asking intelligent questions rather than making arbitrary demands.”
Katherine frowned. Her sister-in-law’s assessment was uncomfortably accurate. Lord Greythorne’s criticisms, while irritating, were not entirely without merit. The stableswerein a deplorable state, as were several other buildings they had passed on their initial tour.
“He blames me for the estate’s condition,” she said, unable to keep the bitterness from her voice. “As if I had any say in how Edmund managed his inheritance.”
“Then perhaps you should make that clear,” Rosabel suggested gently. “He may not understand the limitations of your position during your marriage.”
Katherine’s expression tightened. “I have no desire to discuss my marriage with Lord Greythorne, or anyone else.”
“Of course not,” Rosabel agreed quickly. “I merely meant—”
“I know what you meant,” Katherine sighed, her irritation fading. “Forgive me. This place... it brings back memories I’d rather forget.”
Rosabel squeezed her hand sympathetically. “We can leave whenever you wish. James insisted I bring the carriage, even though Lord Greythorne offered transportation.”
Katherine managed a small smile at her brother’s protectiveness. “Let’s at least take refreshment before we depart. I’d hate for Mrs. Finch to think I’m avoiding her.”
