Chapter Twenty-Two
The day after her trip to Brighton, Rose stepped into the servants’ hall, knowing this conversation was necessary. They deserved to hear directly from her that she and Sebastian were to marry.
The long wooden table was filled with staff taking their morning tea. Mrs. Blythe pouring fresh cups, Finch halfway through a biscuit, Prudence mending one of Rose’s gowns. At the sight of her, those sitting stood respectfully.
“Good morning,” Rose said, her voice warm but serious. “I hope you don’t mind me interrupting your breakfast, but I wanted to speak with you all about something important.”
“Of course, Lady Rose,” Mrs. Blythe said, though Rose could see the slight tension in her shoulders. The uncertainty of recent days had affected everyone.
Rose looked around at the faces that had been her constant through so many years.
“I know you’ve all witnessed quite a lot these past weeks.
You’ve seen Sebastian’s true identity revealed, you’ve watched constables come and go, and I’m sure you’ve wondered what all of this means for Wentworth Manor. For your positions here.”
A few of the younger staff exchanged worried glances. Even stolid Mrs. Carter seemed to be holding her breath.
“First, I want to thank you for your unwavering loyalty, not just recently, but throughout my entire life. You’ve been my family when I had no one else.
” Rose’s voice caught slightly. “You protected me, cared for me, and stood by me even when doing so might have put you at risk. I will never forget that. I hope my news will make up for some of the turmoil. My father has left me the estate and everything else, other than the illegal aspects of his business. I can do as I choose now.”
Mrs. Blythe dabbed at her eyes, and Rose could see several others looking emotional.
“In addition, Sebastian and I are engaged to be married. As soon as the arrangements can be made, we will marry.”
This brought smiles and murmurs of approval, though Rose could tell they were still waiting for the more practical information.
“I know some of you may be wondering what this means for the estate, for your positions. My father’s illegal activities are finished forever.
Sebastian, Mr. Hale, and I are committed to returning this estate to completely legitimate business.
It may take time to rebuild, but we will do it properly. ”
She saw shoulders relax around the room.
“More importantly, you all have positions here for as long as you want them. This is your home too, and Sebastian understands that. In fact, he’s specifically asked me to assure you that he values the kindness you showed him during his time here.”
Finch, who had been looking particularly worried, visibly sagged with relief.
“There will be some changes, of course. Finch, Sebastian will need a proper valet—are you interested in the position?”
Finch nearly choked on his tea. “Me, my lady? But I’m no one important. Hargrave always said I was near useless.”
“Sebastian and I wholeheartedly disagree,” Rose said with a smile. “He appreciates your big, kind heart and your loyalty. We both feel you will shine in this new position.”
“I’d be honored, my lady,” Finch said, straightening with pride.
“We’ll also need to hire a new butler and make other adjustments as we grow the legitimate business. But the point is, we’re planning for growth, not reduction.”
Mary raised her hand tentatively. “Will Lord Ashford—if his title is restored—will he be bringing his own staff?”
“He has no staff to bring, Mary. His family lost everything years ago. You are his staff now.”
The warmth that spread across the gathered faces told Rose everything she needed to know.
“I also want you to understand that while Sebastian will be master of this house, I will still be involved in its daily operations. Mrs. Blythe, I’ll still need your guidance.
Mrs. Carter, your excellent meals. All of you—your expertise and care.
Nothing fundamental changes about how we run this household. ”
“What about the village, my lady?” asked one of the footmen quietly. “There’s been talk.”
Rose nodded, having expected this concern. “There will be gossip, certainly. Some may disapprove of our marriage given our families’ history. But we’re prepared for that. What matters is that we know the truth, and we’re committed to rebuilding this estate’s reputation through our actions.”
She looked around the room one more time. “Are there any other concerns? Questions about what’s to come?”
“When might the wedding be, my lady?” Prudence asked shyly.
“Soon. Within the month, if possible. Which means we’ll all be quite busy with preparations.” Rose smiled. “I hope you’ll help me make it a celebration worthy of a new beginning.”
The mood in the room had shifted from worried anticipation to genuine excitement.
“We’ll make it beautiful, Lady Rose,” Mrs. Blythe said firmly. “Won’t we, everyone?”
A chorus of agreement filled the room.
“Thank you,” Rose said, feeling her throat tighten with emotion. “All of you. For everything you’ve done, and for everything you’ll do.”
As the staff began to disperse, chattering about wedding preparations and new arrangements, Mrs. Blythe approached Rose.
“That was well done, my lady. It was good for them to hear it from you directly.”
“I couldn’t let them wonder about their futures. They’ve sacrificed too much already.”
“Shall we discuss the practical arrangements? There’s quite a lot to organize.”
Rose nodded, feeling a sense of peace settle over her. “Thank goodness for you, Mrs. Blythe.”
“And you, Lady Rose.”
*
A week passed before Sebastian returned to the estate.
He arrived on Tempest, wearing a well-tailored coat that transformed him from gardener to gentleman.
Mrs. Blythe had prepared one of the guest rooms for him until the wedding, though she assured Rose their private quarters would be ready for their wedding night.
The day after his return, they gathered with Mr. Hale in the study to discuss the estate’s future. Afternoon light streamed through the tall windows as Hale spread documents across the mahogany desk.
“The estate has always had potential for legitimate profit,” Hale began, tapping the papers. “Your father chose smuggling because it was quick and lucrative, but it wasn’t the only way.”
Rose leaned forward, studying the detailed maps and ledgers. “What do you recommend?”
“Expand the cider orchards, improve the tenant farms, invest in livestock.” His weathered finger traced property lines. “The land is fertile. With proper management, we can produce wool, grain, quality cider. Build a reputation as a respectable estate again.”
Sebastian nodded thoughtfully. “And the trading connections?”
“Many merchants are eager to distance themselves from the scandal. I’ve already made inquiries with honest shipping companies in Brighton.” Hale’s eyes brightened. “They’re interested in legitimate partnerships.”
Rose felt hope budding in her chest. “How long before we see results?”
“A year, perhaps two for full recovery. But the foundation is solid. There’s something else to consider,” Hale continued. “The servants and villagers need to see that this manor is no longer a place of secrets. They need visible proof that you both mean to restore its honor.”
Rose glanced at Sebastian, an idea forming. “What if we host a wedding feast? Invite everyone from the village, share our plans for the future?”
“I think that’s splendid,” Hale said warmly. “We haven’t had a community celebration since your mother was alive.”
“We could make it annual,” Rose said, excitement building. “Tie it to the harvest, give everyone something to anticipate.” She turned to Sebastian. “What do you think?”
His smile was answer enough. “I am in full agreement. A new tradition for a new beginning.”
Rose felt her heart skip at the warmth in his eyes. “Then it is settled.” She turned back to Hale. “There is one more thing. Would you walk me down the aisle on my wedding day?”
Hale went very still. His eyes grew bright, and for a long moment he seemed unable to speak. When he finally found his voice, it was rough with emotion. “Me, my lady?”
“You’ve been our truest ally through everything. There’s no one else I’d rather have.”
Hale pressed his lips together, blinking rapidly. “It would be my greatest honor.”
After the meeting, Sebastian and Rose walked arm in arm to the rose garden. She untied her bonnet to feel the autumn sun on her face, breathing in the crisp air that promised winter’s approach.
“I should check on the roses,” Sebastian said. “Thorncroft hasn’t hired a replacement yet, and I won’t let aphids destroy your garden.”
Rose smiled. “Do you mean, our garden?”
“I shall forevermore think of it as yours, my love.”
They found the swing and Sebastian helped her settle onto the wooden seat before joining her, his thigh warm against hers.
“I’ll never forget the first time I saw you here,” he said. “You took my breath away.”
“You were quite mysterious yourself. The brooding gardener with gentle hands.”
He traced a finger along her jaw. “I’m beginning to remember who Sebastian Ashford was. It feels strange, but good.”
“And how do you feel now?”
“Like I am exactly where I belong.”
They swayed gently, discussing wedding plans and the harvest feast. The more they talked, the more Rose’s excitement grew. This would be their fresh start—not just as a couple, but as part of the community.
She did have one niggling worry, however. “I know nothing about… what happens between husband and wife.”
His hand stilled on hers. “It is of no consequence.”
Heat crept up her neck. “You’ll be patient with me?”
“Always.” His voice was tender. “I’ll take care of you. I promise.”
The sincerity in his tone made her chest tight with longing.
Sebastian reached into his jacket pocket. “I have something for you.”
He withdrew a delicate chain, sunlight catching on a deep blue sapphire set in tarnished gold.