“May I do the honors today?” Grace asked Audrey.
“Of course, dearest. Thank you.”
“Mr. Wallings, how do you take your tea?”
“One lump of sugar, please.”
“If you’re amenable, I’d like to show you the garden after tea and share my thoughts on a new design.”
“I would be delighted, thank you,” Peter said.
“Mr. Wallings, how are you liking your new position?” Mia asked.
“Very well so far. I’ve only been here for a few days, so there’s a lot to familiarize myself with. From what I understand, there hasn’t been a vicar in residence for quite some time. My first duty is to find out what my parishioners need. Lord Fletcher has graciously agreed to contribute to the poor fund to help in that endeavor.”
“I’m sure you’ll do very well,” Lady Kathryn said. “My brother has said on numerous occasions that you’re the smartest man he knows.”
“I’m not so sure about that, Lady Kathryn,” Peter said, blushing. “Thank you for the compliment.”
“Believe me, my brother doesn’t give out such compliments about everyone.”
“Mr. Wallings, is there anything you need for the parish?” Audrey asked.
“Lady Fletcher, your husband has already agreed to add to the parish coffers for repairs and such.”
“Perhaps I can solicit support from the gentry in the area for a specific project you have in mind?”
Peter sat quietly for a moment, contemplating her request. “That’s very generous, my lady. I’ll sincerely consider it. One thing I would like to accomplish is to ensure that all the children in Reading have a chance to receive some form of education, specifically how to read and write. I’m not sure what programs, if any, are available right now.”
“Excellent choice. I will gladly try to help with that endeavor,” Audrey said. “At the very least, we will be able to provide books and slates for the children to use.”
“Thank you, Lady Fletcher. That would be most welcome.”
“Is there a schoolroom in town?” Audrey asked.
“That I don’t know yet, but I’ll definitely look into it. I’m not sure how many children there are in the parish, but I would be happy to open the church hall for such an endeavor if there isn’t a dedicated schoolroom.”
“What an excellent idea, Mr. Wallings. I can well imagine you’re making a difference in the parishioners’ lives already,” Grace said, handing him a cup.
“You’re too kind, Miss Parker,” Peter said, taking the tea. When their hands briefly touched, it felt so right, like she was meant to always be with him.
“Perhaps I can help too,” Mia said. “Maybe mittens and scarves for the children to ward off winter’s chill. I’m pretty proficient in knitting.”
“Thank you, Miss Mia. That’s a wonderful idea. I’m sure the parishioners would appreciate such generosity,” Peter said.
She nodded before sipping her tea. “Sister, may we go to the shop to get more yarn soon?”
Audrey nodded. “Of course.”
After tea, Grace led Peter out to the garden. “As you can see, it’s quite overgrown. Fletcher will hire a gardener to help out, but here are my ideas,” she said, pointing out the different areas she wanted to improve.
“I can’t wait to see all the improvements. It’s going to be quite beautiful.”
“Thank you, Mr. Wallings. Your good opinion means so much to me.”
“Miss Grace, I mean Miss Parker, I can’t tell you how pleased I am to see you again. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversations in London.”
Grace smiled. “As did I.”