Bewitching the Duke

Mrs. Patterson pulled out teacups as she nodded. “She knew Davie didn’t get the doll when he fell out. She’s a right smart girl. She knew he couldn’t get it with his arm in a sling.”

“Mrs. Patterson, what do you need around here?”

She glanced back at him as she poured the hot water. “What do you mean, Your Grace?”

“I know your husband died. I’m just wondering what type of help you need around the house. Is the roof leaking? Do you need a footman to come by and help you with any repairs?”

She blinked furiously. “My roof started leaking this spring after a windstorm.”

“I shall get a man to come by and fix it.”

She placed a teacup in front of him. “Bless you, Your Grace.”

“What else do you need?”

“Nothing,” she replied, staring into her cup.

“Why, Mrs. Patterson, I do believe you are holding something back.”

She wiped away a tear. “Your Grace, I love it here. My children are so happy . . .”

“But . . . ?”

“I have to leave. The little bit I earn from sewing won’t pay for what I need. I have a brother in Suffolk who will take us in.”

Colin could tell from the quivering tone of her voice that there was more going on than just her leaving. He wished Selina would return. She would be able to get Mrs. Patterson to talk about it. Or perhaps, he could try.

“Why don’t you want to live with your brother?”

“He’s a terrible man, Your Grace. I fear he may do . . . unnatural things to my babies.” She continued to stare into her tea.

Colin closed his eyes for a long moment. There was no chance he would let this woman take her children to her brother’s home. “Mrs. Patterson, would you consider working up at the manor house for me?”

She looked up. “What do you mean?”

He laughed softly. “My home is in disrepair. Most of my servants are twice your age. I need to start bringing in some younger servants so the older ones may think about retiring.”

“You want me to go into service?”

“Yes, but you would be able to keep your house here and come home every night.”

“I can cook, sir.”

Colin smiled. “Then I will speak with Mrs. Roberts.”

“I know she would appreciate the help, Your Grace,” Selina said from the bottom step. “Her legs are bothering her more and more every day.”

“Will you think about it, Mrs. Patterson?” Colin asked as Mary stirred on his lap.

The woman smiled. “There is nothing to think about, Your Grace. I would be honored to go into service in your household.”

“Excellent.” He took one last sip of tea. “I might need some help with this,” he said, nodding to the little girl on his lap.

Selina laughed and walked over to Mary. Slowly, she picked up the girl and hande

d her to Mrs. Patterson. “Davie is doing just fine other than his petulance. Give him another day in bed and then let him slowly get up and do things. But not too much at first.”

“Thank you, Selina.”