Chapter8
Lady Kathryn had been shockedto see Mr. Clifford standing in the garden with Lord Fletcher. She knew who he was because she’d asked her maid to find out his identity some time ago.
Mr. Sam Clifford, son of a baronet. Had his circumstances diminished so much that he had to accept a gardener’s position?
She’d often wondered about that as she watched him working in her neighbor’s garden, although she would never have admitted to anyone that she’d been fascinated by him.
Of course, her mother would have been appalled if she’d known Kathryn’s thoughts lingered on the gardener. As the daughter of an earl, Kathryn was expected to marry a titled peer. She knew what her mother’s wishes were on that front. Kathryn would be expected to marry well—a marquess, earl, or even a viscount would be acceptable to her mother. She wasn’t so naïve that she didn’t know why gentlemen asked her to dance—a handsome dowry was all the incentive they needed to overlook her plainness. But the minute she started to talk about anything other than the weather, they all drifted away.
When Mr. Clifford addressed her today, it was the first time she’d heard his voice. It was deep and gravelly, and the sound of it sent shivers down her spine. His beautiful hazel eyes seemed to bore into her very soul. Even though they’d never previously met, she felt a kinship with him. It felt odd to feel such a connection, but she couldn’t deny how she felt.
“Have you worked at a country estate before, Mr. Clifford?” she asked.
“Yes. Before I began helping Lord Ashford, I worked on my family’s estate west of here.”
“Were you unhappy there?”
“Not at all, my lady. My brother and I parted ways when he inherited the baronetcy a year ago”
“How dreadful. It must have been awful to have to leave your home.”
“I was sad to leave at first, but I’ve reconciled myself to it.”
“Do you have any other siblings?”
Mr. Clifford shook his head. “No.”
“Do you speak with your brother?”
“Not since I left.”
Kathryn couldn’t imagine not having a relationship with her brother. It would be best to move on from such a painful subject. “I would be happy to hear your thoughts on the plants that will thrive the best.”
“Of course, my lady.”
“You must be Mr. Clifford,” Audrey said, entering the garden with Grace on her heels. “My husband has informed me that you will be joining our staff.”
Mr. Clifford bowed. “I’m honored to be here, Lady Fletcher.”
“We’re happy you’re here. As you can see, the garden is in need of a major renovation.”
“I’m sure that, with Lady Kathryn’s and Miss Parker’s guidance, the garden will be the envy of the county in no time.”
“I like your enthusiasm, Mr. Clifford. Have you seen the gardener’s cottage yet?”
“Not yet, my lady.”
“I see. Shall I send for Charles to show you where it is?”
Mr. Clifford opened his mouth to answer, but Grace spoke first. “Why don’t we all go? It’s a beautiful afternoon for a walk,” she said.
“That’s a lovely idea,” Audrey said.
“Please, lead the way,” Mr. Clifford said.
Audrey and Grace led their little procession while Lady Kathryn walked beside Mr. Clifford. She was trying to think of something witty to say as they walked past the stables, but her mind was blank.
“Have you been in residence at the manor long, Lady Kathryn?” Mr. Clifford asked.