Chapter Text
It wasn’t like at the other great houses. He didn’t corner her in the pantry or slip into her room at night. His orders were more like suggestions; his voice never raised. At holidays, there were gifts to go with her bonus. She held them close, these things his hands had touched.
Fresh flowers in a vase. Children laughing in the street. A bit of chocolate filched from the kitchen, melting on her tongue as she goes about her chores.
He catalogues all the little things that bring her joy. Wonders what he could possibly do to make her smile just for him.
“He’s sweet on you, you know.”
The china clatters in her hands. “Excuse me, sir?”
“The delivery boy.” Dark eyes find hers over the fold of his paper. “I’ve seen how he looks at you.”
“It’s nothing.”
Cheeks flushed, she prays her face isn’t as easy to read as that silly boy’s.
It was a strange thing, becoming mistress of a house she used to serve. During the day, she caught herself polishing silver. At night, she stifled every cry, wary of being overheard.
“So quiet,” he teased, nuzzling her afterward. “Don’t worry. I’ll teach you to use your voice.”