Free Portrait of a Scandal by Danielle Lisle

Thomas finally said.
    “A ride?”
    “Yes. I was hoping to show off my new wife to those who find the urge to grace Hyde Park with their presence,” he said with a chuckle, as he leant back in his chair. “Mother was kind enough to have her mare sent over for you to use, since you have not one of your own in London.”
    “That was kind of her.”
    “Quite. I told my parents of your stallion, and I must admit my father was very impressed with a lady being able to control such a strong animal. My mother, on the other hand, was distraught at the idea,” he said with a mocking sigh. “She would rather spend her time in the comfort of a carriage, and offered her steed for you while we stay in town.”
    “I am sure I will take great pleasure in riding the animal. I must say, I have never ridden while father and I were in London. He prefers the carriage, as well.”
    “Then after your meeting with Parker and Mrs Smith, we will ride?”
    “I look forward to it.”
     
    * * * *
     
    Nellie smiled at Geoff as he led her into the library. A tall man with a cropped beard and a demure woman stood waiting for her as she entered. The man bowed, while the woman offered a lacklustre curtsy.
    “My Lady, I am Parker, the butler, and please allow me to introduce you to Mrs Smith, the housekeeper.”
    “Thank you, Parker. It is a pleasure to meet you both. Please.” Nellie indicated they should sit with a gesture of her hand towards a group of settees, on which they all sat. “I know Thomas introduced us last eve, but I fear your names had escaped me. I will do my best to ensure I do not forget them in the future.”
    The two exchanged a glance, but said nothing. Their surprise at her frankness was a revelation.
    “How long have you both served my husband?”
    “We have served Lord Sterling since he bought the house, my Lady,” Parker said. “We were employed with the previous owner.”
    “Well, you hardly need me to point out how you both excel at your roles. Your time here alone speaks of your excellence.”
    The eyes of both the housekeeper and butler widened slightly.
    “That is kind of her Ladyship to say,” Mrs Smith exclaimed.
    “Not at all. You and the staff will learn very quickly that I am a woman who finds it important to speak the truth. While I am happy to express my delight, I feel it just as easy to express my displeasure, but I can see there is little fear of that,” she offered. “Please know that you can come to me with any concerns you have regarding the household. I will always be open to your thoughts.
    “Anne, my maid, will also be of a great help to you. She has known me since we were children and understands me better than I do myself at times. Feel free to seek her counsel if I am not available.”
    Mrs Smith pursed her lips slightly, and Nellie wondered at the cause. Anne was not under the housekeeper’s command like the other maids of the house. No lady’s maids ever were, as they were employed by their mistresses. And while Anne could be brash, she was a wonderful lady’s maid and a true friend. But there was something about the housekeeper that caused Nellie to hold on to a hint of reserve. Trust for this woman would need to be earned.
    “Is there anything you wish to discuss with me while we are all together?” Nellie asked. “I am sure there are menus and such that will require my attention, but please inform the cook that for the time being, she holds free rein in her meal preparations. Once I have a firmer grasp on her capabilities, we can then confer over menus.”
    Parker and Mrs Smith shared a glance before the butler shook his head. “Then there is nothing else that I can think of, my Lady.”
    “Very well, but should you think of anything, please come to me. I will not begrudge you the time on any account.” Well, perhaps if she and Thomas were alone…
    “Of course, my Lady,” Parker said.
    “Wonderful.” Nellie rose, a smile forming upon her lips at the thought of her