While this meant Ruth was able to enjoy a quiet, bothersome free dinner with her father and the Duke of Goldclaw, she couldn’t help but feel a ping of envy. Why, she wasn’t sure. She wanted her sister to be happy, and judging by her demeanor this morning, she was.
One of the maids entered the room then, walking across the beautiful hardwood floor with a tray in her hands.
“Faith, what is this?” Sophia asked as the plate was being sat down in front of them.
“Lacy pancakes!” Ruth exclaimed at the sight of their intricate shape. These pancakes were shaped like an oval with swirls on the outside as well as designs cut into them. She knew the dough was piped directly into a pan atop the hot hearth. A difficult and time-consuming job.
“I have not eaten lacy pancakes since we visited London with Mama. Do you remember, Ruthie?”
Ruth did of course recall those wonderful days. She cherished her memory of that visit to London with their mother, the last visit they were to take together. When she closed her eyes, she could conjure up the images of their visit to the Royal Menagerie where they’d stood and watched the many exotic animals. It was there, in front of the pen containing Miss Nancy, a bright spotted leopardess from Anjengo, that she first found herself feeling compassion and empathy for all animals, caged or otherwise.
The leopardess’ big, sad eyes were burned into her memory and she remembered how their mother seemed to be consumed with sadness upon seeing the majestic animals held in captivity.
“She was a loving woman, our mother,” she said while stirring her drinking chocolate.
“Yes, she was. I miss her so much, Ruthie.” Sophia took her sister’s hand and squeezed it. “I wish she were here to help me through this courtship. I am so unsure of myself and my conduct. The Duchess, while she is so kind, is looking out for the benefit of her son, not me.”
Ruth squeezed her sister’s hand back, feeling awful for her earlier envy.
“Do not worry. You are charming and beautiful. He will fall for you, and Papa will surely look out for your interests. Now, what of these pancakes?”
They turned to them and smiled at one another while the servants arranged them on a plate for the two of them.
“His Lordship ordered them special for the both of you. He said to tell you they are his favorites, and he hopes they will find favor.”
Sophia beamed at this. “You see? Utterly charming and considerate.”
It was clear from her sister’s dreamy expression that Lord Rotham had captured her heart without trying. Of course, her sister was in such a want for love and marriage she might have considered herself in love with any lord who showed her affection; a matter of concern for Ruth.
She was about to voice this thought to her sister when the door to the breakfast room opened and to Ruth’s utter dismay, Lord Cragshade entered. He was on a crutch still and came to a halt upon seeing them. For a moment, he hesitated but when he caught sight of Sophia, his face brightened, and he carried on walking.
“Well, good morning. You must be Lady Sophia. I have heard much about you. And Lady Ruth. Good morning to you as well.”
Ruth nodded and pushed her plate away, her appetite forgotten. A knot formed in her stomach as she thought of her encounter with the man the previous day. Sophia, who had no idea of the man’s true nature, smiled at him.
“Lord Cragshade, I am pleased to see you’ve recovered your health. Is the rest of your family not joining us for breakfast?”
The young man slid into a seat, leaning his crutch against the table as he snapped one finger for the servant.
“Tea - and make it strong.”
The manner he used to address the servants bothered Ruth. She believed that just because one was of a higher-ranking position, one was not entitled to treat others rudely. Evidently, Lord Cragshade did not prescribe to this philosophy.
“My uncle, the Duke, and my cousin have gone hunting with your father. However, my aunt will join us shortly.”
A servant picked up the pot with the steaming tea and poured it into a cup, setting it down before Lord Cragshade. He looked at the beverage and shook his head.
“This is not strong enough. Take it away.” He waved dismissively just as the Duchess entered.
“Lawrence, I will not have you addressing my servants as though you are their master. You are a guest in this home.”
Ruth grinned at Sophia, both pleased that the Duchess was putting the insufferable man in his place.
“Aunt Judith, I was just talking about you. Lady Ruth was concerned as to your whereabouts.”
Ruth looked up, having voiced no such specific concerns.
“Oh, is that so, Lady Ruth? You were worried for me? You needn’t be.” She slid into her seat and focused her attention on Sophia.
