Back at Eloise's childhood home, Damien was hard at work outside, trying to tidy its appearance so it looked as though someone still lived in the home.
Eloise sat on the step, watching Damien as he moved around. He had rejected her offer to help and dismissed the idea of using the guards outside.
Rather than press him, Eloise allowed herself the quiet pleasure of observing him in this different setting. Damien had that rare ability to blend in anywhere.
"I could do it far better," Aiden grumbled, frustrated at being denied the chance to cut more wood. "Would you not agree that I cut the wood perfectly, Lady Hawthorne?"
"I don't think it was a matter of how perfectly you cut it," Eloise replied gently, trying to spare Aiden's feelings. "There was concern about the axe slipping from your hands and striking someone or a window. If you want to help in the yard, you only need to ask Damien nicely."
