An Unlikely Belle

By Danie Marie

"Fans of Danie Marie novels are sure to love an enchanting trip back in time with her story of faith and romance in An Unlikely Belle." 

-James Michael Pratt, NY Times Bestselling Author of The Lost Valentine 

Maddy, born int

• Language: English
• Publisher: Trilogy Christian Publishing
• Release date: Feb 14, 2023
• ISBN: 9798887384184

Danie Marie

Danie Marie took first place in an online, Christmas short story competition, and third in another. You can read Danie's personal stories in the Inspire Christian Writers anthologies, Inspire Faith, and Inspire Trust. Danie also has four novels available on Amazon, in paperback and Kindle: The Hope Series - Kellen's Hope, Marla's Hope (sequel to Kellen's Hope), Where Darkness Dwells, & Nellie's Gold ~ Where Secrets Lie.

Book preview

Dedication

I dedicate this novel to my son, Michael, and daughter-in-love, Marja, who mean the world to me, and who have given my husband and me two beautiful grandsons. May the Lord continue to bless you and your family.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to Dale and Beth Blee, Debbie Nudo, Lynne and Liane Hooper for covering me in prayer as I worked through the publishing process. Also, to Mark Mingle for his kindness and for accepting An Unlikely Belle for publication with TBN, and Rhonda Webb, my product manager, as well as my editor from WorldMissionMedia and the page design team. I am forever grateful to all of you. May the Lord richly bless you!

Chapter One

Maddy sat at her school desk, twirling a long, wavy strand of hair around her finger, wondering if today, she’d finally hear from her brother, Nat. She had written him over a month ago of her upcoming graduation. And now, her graduation being a mere two weeks away, she had no idea what she was to do once she finished with her studies. Especially seeing as how she had to move out of the boarding house, allowing a new student to take her room. Early on and continuing through her four years of education, Maddy had done well at reading, writing, and arithmetic. So well, this last year, the instructor, Mr. Patterson, asked her to help instruct other children.

During this time, Nat had taken care of both her boarding and schooling, but she had no idea what she was to do next. Nat never mentioned a plan for her future in his previous letters. Their Da had worked at stables to make a living for their family and started teaching Nat at an early age—how to keep and train horses. And just before her first semester, Nat had done well to get hired as head hostler at the Stirlingshire Manor House, where he had been working these last four years. She missed him terribly. Her heart ached to see him.

Nat being the only family she had left—she did not know what she would do if something happened to him. His lateness in writing concerned her. Had he contracted something and was too sick and too weak to write?

The school master rang the bell, dismissing class for the day, shaking Maddy from her contemplation. She hurried home through town, past brownstone buildings, the red, brick, bank, stucco shops, and on to the white, clapboard boarding house, anxious to see if a letter had come for her. As soon as she walked inside, she looked at the small oak table by the door and thumbed through the mail. Still, no letter from Nat. Brows knit, she walked along the hall toward the first set of stairs, on up, then down the hall toward the stairs that led to her room in the attic. She bumped into someone and looked up.

Mrs. Sheldon. I’m so sorry.

Ya might a seen me if yer head weren’t down. Why ya lookin’ so glum?

It’s just…I was hoping to have a letter from my brother. It’s been some time since I last heard from him, and in two short weeks, I’ll be graduating.

Yes. Well, I think there’s somethin’ on yer bed that might be of interest to ya.

Maddy hurried upstairs to the attic. Dropped onto her bed. Picked up the letter and tore it open. It was a brief note but enough to make her squeal with delight. Nat was not only coming for her graduation but taking her home to live with him in his bungalow on the Stirlingshire estate where he worked.

An answer to her prayers, for that is what she secretly hoped for. Especially since she loved horses as much as he did. She figured it must be why he decided to bring her to live with him. How wonderful that they would be together again. He also mentioned having a surprise for her but that he would wait to tell her in person. She laughed at the thought of her brother having a surprise. She could not imagine what it might be.

At eighteen, thoughts of meeting a handsome young man and getting married occupied her thoughts. Maybe she’d fall in love with a young man who worked at the manor house. She could not be more ready for her life to begin. These last two weeks of school will feel unbearable waiting to see Nat.

The day of her graduation finally arrived, but her excitement rested on seeing Nat. What was his surprise? Had he found a wife? Oh, how she had longed to see the estate where he worked and lived! Nat’s letters always made it sound so grand.

His note said that he’d pick her up at two o’clock on the day of her graduation. She sat on a settee by the window, waiting expectantly to see his handsome face. A carriage came near. Is it him at last? The carriage passed. She heaved a sigh, for if he didn’t hurry, she’d have to go without him.

Maddy looked at the mantle clock. It was past time she left. Nat would have to meet her at the school. She took a few steps outside, walked back in, took off her blue wool sweater, and hung it on a hook by the door. Walking back out, she looked up and down the street. Nat still nowhere in sight, she hurried for fear she would arrive late for her graduation.

Wheels of a gig came near. Stopped. Maddy! Hold up.

She spun and saw her brother, half hanging out of the gig and holding out a hand to help her up. She ran to him, squealing in excitement. Nat. Oh, Nat! she said, embracing him.

He pulled back. Let me look at ya. My, how you’ve grown. Yer a beautiful woman, Maddy girl.

And you’re as handsome as ever. I’ve missed ya so, but we need to hurry, or we’ll be late.

Nat clicked his tongue, gave a little shake of the reins, and the black and gray horse started at a trot.

I can’t wait to introduce you to my friends. She laughed. "They’ve heard so much about you they feel they already know you.

Oh, and before we reach the school, I must know what your surprise is. I’ve been anxious, wondering what it might be.

Nat laughed. Eager, are ya? Well, I think yer goin’ ta like it, that is, if ya don’t mind workin’. He glanced over at her.

I’d be terribly bored if I didn’t have something to keep me busy. What is it? Tell me fast, the school is just up ahead. I must know so I can share it with my friends.

How would ya like ta care for three of the horses, feeding ‘em, groomin’ ‘em. Give ‘em a good wash every now and then….

Really? That would be splendid. Oh, thank you, Nat.

He pulled up beside the other horses tied up along the side of the road where Maddy had gone to school the past four years, pulled back the reins, and jumped down. After tying the reigns to a post, he walked to Maddy’s side of the gig and helped her down. One more thing ta tell ya, Maddy. I’m gonna pay ya—and this is one of the horses that’ll be under yer care.

What. I never imagined anything so wonderful.

Maddy looked the horse over. He’s beautiful. What’s his name?

Storm.

He looks like his name, what with his beautiful black and gray coloring. I love the contrast of his black mane and tail.

Once the graduation ceremony ended, her friends followed her outside to see Storm. Maddy noted several of her female friends seeming more interested in her brother than the horse that would be under her care. She smiled. So, he isn’t getting married after all. Not yet, at least.

Besides her girlfriends, several boys in her class and a few undergraduates, whom she had helped with their studies, came to see her off. I’m going to miss you all. There’s no telling if I’ll ever be back. But wish me well because I’m going to be on a wonderful new journey with my dear brother. Despite her joy, tears slipped down her cheeks.

It was nice meetin’ y’all, Nat said, but we need ta get Maddy’s things at the boarding house and head on out. We have a long ride ahead of us. So long.

Good-bye! Good-bye! Maddy called, leaning out the gig, waving.

How long’s it gonna take ta get yer belongings packed?

I got everything packed last night. My bags are sitting by the front door. I didn’t want to keep us here any longer than needed. How long will it take to get to my new home?

I made the journey here in a day and a half, and I’m tired. We need to find a place along the way where we can rest for the night. It’ll also help keep yer seat from gettin’ too sore from the long ride.

We’ll be there tomorrow? I can hardly wait.

Yep, and that’s why we’ll hurry. I can’t wait for ya ta see the place.

While Nat gathered her two small bags, Maddy hugged Mrs. Sheldon. Waved to the other boarders who sat in the front room. They all wished her well, and then she and Nat were on their way—to her new life and an exciting new journey. She pulled her blue bonnet over her head and tied it under her chin, hoping she’d find contentment living on the grounds of the large estate. She reached over and encircled her hands around Nat’s arm and, leaning into him, felt his warmth through the fabric of his shirt. Having him close again made her heart sing.

She hoped she’d make new friends quickly at her new home.

Chapter Two

Nat found a small place to have a bite to eat and stay the night, and according to his estimation, they were a bit more than halfway to the estate. After a satisfying meal of stew and bread, he rented each of them a room for the night. Taking their keys, he carried Maddy’s bags to her room. Seeing the wide-eyed look on her face, he said, Don’t worry, it’s just for one night. Wait ‘til ya see my place. It’s warm and cozy on winter nights, and I think it’ll suit ya more than anyplace ya’ve ever lived.

She leaned over and kissed Nat goodnight, and he pulled her into an embrace. I’ve missed ya, Maddy girl. It’ll be good havin’ ya close. We’ve got ta get up early if ya want to get there before nightfall.

I might be too excited to sleep, but I’ll try. Goodnight, sweet brother, mine, she said and closed the door.

Maddy turned and looked the room over more closely. Parts of the wallpaper hung loose in places, but the floor looked clean. What about the bed? She sat on it. The springs squeaked, making her giggle.

Fragments of an old quilt had come loose. She lifted it to make sure there weren’t any bed bugs. None found, Maddy opened her bag and pulled out her nightdress. Once ready for bed, she slipped under the covers. More exhausted than she realized, while imagining the glory of the manor house, she fell fast asleep.

Before first light, a rooster awakened Maddy. She moaned. Aren’t you the early bird? Pulling the covers over her head, she realized where she was, threw off the covers, bolted out of bed, and started preparing for her final journey with Nat. Her dark blue dress, the only one she felt proper for her arrival, slipped it on, combed her hair, and tied a blue ribbon at the back to keep it from blowing willy-nilly on their ride. Then donned her bonnet.

She opened her door just as Nat was about to knock. Aw, yer up, he said quietly to keep from awakening the other guests. Was it the rooster that woke ya?

Indeed, it was.

Did ya get any sleep?

I don’t even remember dreaming. Guess I was more tired than I realized. I’ll be as spry as that old rooster by the time we get to my new home.

Nat handed her two-day-old biscuits. Sorry, but that’s all they could offer this early. Unless ya want ta wait an hour.

Maddy took them from him, headed out the door, and waited for him outside, bouncing on her toes while he got their bags. Once he put them under their seats, they were ready to leave. What about Storm? Doesn’t he need food and water?

I did that before I came ta get ya.

How did you have time to do all that?

I was up before that rooster, he said, smiling. Last night, I was thinkin’—I need ta take ya shoppin’ before we get there. You’ll need proper attire for when yer workin’ or ridin’. Boots, a skirt ya won’t mind gettin’ dirty, or whatever clothes ya need. And a nice dress or two.

But how can you afford all that? You’ve already spent enough on my boarding and schooling these past four years.

He looked over and smiled at her. For one thing, yer worth it, and I make plenty as head hostler. In fact, Lord Stirlingshire recently gave me a raise. I’ve been savin’ so I could do somethin’ special for ya on account of yer graduatin’ and all.

Aw, Nat. You’re too kind. She chuckled and then laughed and laughed. He gave her a sideways look. Have you noticed that I’ve learned to use better language? I still slip into our old ways, especially if I’m excited or when something makes me angry, but—

I have.

Let me teach you a few things I learned in school. Instead of saying ‘ya,’ the proper way of saying the word is, ‘you.’ Or, instead of saying ‘yer,’ the word is pronounced ‘your.’ Knowing proper English is important.

Well, well. Ya—you sound like a proper lady now. I’m proud of…you, Maddy. It would take a long time fer me ta learn ta speak like that all the time.

Maddy said, And I don’t care whether ya do or ya don’t. I loves ya just the way ya are.

The two laughed, then rode along in silence, Maddy enjoying the scenery. Rolling hills strewn with oaks and dotted with pines, here and there. They passed cattle farms and small villages. The next village we come to is larger than the last couple ones we passed and has a few nice stores where ya can find about everything you’ll need. If ya don’t find dresses ya like, we’ll go into town ta one of the higher-end shops, but it’ll take us about an hour out of our way.

"I’m sure I can find what I need in the next village. I don’t want to arrive any later than necessary.

Tell me about the family in the manor house. You mentioned Elizabeth in your letters.

Yes, she recently got engaged to Lord Chatham. A nice-looking fellow. And you’ll just love ‘er. She’s a darlin’ girl, friendly ta staff and all.

Really, Maddy said. I thought those in the regency looked down on commoners.

Some do, but not Elizabeth or her brother. They read the bible and appear ta attend ta its ways. Which I think is why they aren’t snobbish like some. And I believe they’re Protestants like us, which I find surprising. Most in the elite class seem to be Catholics. You’ll not be meeting ‘er brother. He hasn’t been home in two years, and I don’t know when e’ll be back. Hopefully, fer her weddin.’

Such a shame. I was looking forward to meeting the entire family.

Chapter Three

Having reached the village Nat had told Maddy about, he told her to look at storefronts and find one where she’d like to shop. Oh, there, she said, pointing across the street. Their window display looks like they’ll have plenty of clothes to choose from.

In her excitement, as soon as Nat stopped, Maddy jumped from the gig and hurried inside. They had an assortment of clothing such as she had ever seen. Lovely skirts in cotton, and brocade, in colors she never imagined wearing. A few silk skirts that, sadly, she’d never have occasion to wear. She straightened her shoulders, took a breath, and started looking at items she needed rather than wanted.

Nat waited outside. He told her to get him when she was ready for him to pay. She walked to a rack and felt the weight of a tan skirt. It felt light enough to wear during warm weather, and a heavier skirt of the same pattern, for cooler days. Shirtwaists, I need a couple of those, too. She pulled out a muslin, off-white shirtwaist she felt would work and one in blue. Nothing fancy, but for working and, she hoped, horseback riding, they would be fine. Realizing she’d need a jacket for cooler days or in the mornings and evenings—she found a fitted brown jacket that would look good with most of her clothes.

She walked to the window, knocked to get Nat’s attention, and held the items up for him to see. He nodded his approval; then, she walked over to look at dresses.

Hello, said a clerk. I haven’t seen you here before. Would you like me to hold those until you finish shopping?

Oh, yes, thank you. I just graduated from school, and I’ll be working at a large manor house tending horses alongside my brother.

How nice for you. Congratulations.

Thank you. All I have need of now are a dress or two to wear on nicer occasions. The clerk smiled and laid the clothes Maddy had already picked out behind the counter. Maddy hoped the store had dresses in her size. Sadly, they didn’t have as many dresses as skirts, but looking around, she saw a lovely, pale blue dress hanging near what she assumed was a dressing room. She loved the wide ruffle around the scoop neckline and along the edges of the puffed sleeves.

She asked the lady who had helped her if someone was trying it on. They just left, she said, handing the dress to her.

Maddy tried it on, turning in different directions, looking at herself in the looking glass to see if it fit well and looked good. Loving it, she hurried to the window and tapped again. Would Nat approve? she wondered. He turned to her, and his eyes grew large. He nodded. She left to change back into the clothes she had worn when she came in, then called Nat inside.

Before leaving the store, Maddy asked where to find the closest shoe store. The young lady pointed across the street. Oh, thank you. They hurried across the street, and right there, in the window display, she saw what she was looking for. Black shoes that would work both for working in a stable with horses, as well as for riding. The manager got her size, and although a little tight, they were a perfect fit and would surely stretch out, as all leather shoes did.

Maddy said, Can we get a bite to eat before we go?

Nat pointed to a small eatery a few doors down from the dress shop, took her bags, and led her across the cobblestone road. The normal Sunday meal was their only choice. Roast, potatoes, carrots, peas, and braised red cabbage, but it did not matter to either of them. In Maddy’s mind, it was the best meal of the week. She wiped her mouth and sat back in her chair. I’m so full. I’m fit to pop.

Ready to go? Nat asked. We’re almost there—should take little more than an hour.

Yes, I’m so excited to see the estate where you’ve lived these past four years and to see your home.

It’s your home too, Maddy, and I want ya ta feel that way about it. If there’s anythin’ ya want ta do ta make it feel more like yours, do as ya wish, ta fix it up.

She hugged his arm, smiled up at him, then sat back to take in the sights; a thrill of excitement ran through her veins as they drew nearer their destination.

Nat grabbed Maddy’s hand. What yer lookin’ at on the right, Maddy, is the outer edge of the Stirlingshire estate.

Oh, my! We’re there. I can hardly contain myself. It’s so beautiful, like much of the land we’ve seen. But to live on it, that’s another thing altogether—to live amongst its grandness.

Further on, Maddy saw an old rock wall. What is that, Nat?

What ya see there are ruins of what the first tenants built on the property, way back in the fifteen-hundreds. Impressive, isn’t it?

Such history as I’ve never seen. She sat forward, trying to take it all in, not wanting to miss a thing. Just up ahead, a break in the dirt road led to the right. Up ahead there. Is that where we turn? Maddy asked, pointing.

He smiled at her. Sure is, but don’t hold yer breath. It’s a long lane, ta the Stirlingshire Manor House, and stable.

When he turned down the road, Maddy asked if oaks lined the entire lane to the estate.

Just until ya reach an expansive lawn and garden. That’s where it opens into a glorious view of the Stirlingshire Manor House. I can’t wait fer ya ta see it.

Maddy gave a squeal of delight. Her body tingled with excitement. She sat back, looking up at the massive branches, creating a canopy above them. I love this. It’s so romantic.

Nat threw his head back and laughed.

A few minutes later, Maddy gasped. I think I see it. There, through the trees, she said, pointing ahead to her left. Suddenly, the lawn, garden, and manor came into full view. She sat wide-eyed. Speechless. Mouth open. Tears welled in her eyes, blurring her vision. She swiped them away with the palms of her hands.

The Stirlingshire Manor House was beyond Maddy’s imagination. Its pinnacles and turrets rose into a brilliant blue sky. The massive three-story rock manor had windows and fireplaces aplenty. And the garden had an abundance of flowering plants and bushes, such as she had ever seen. Nat stopped the gig, allowing her to take it all in.

Oh, Nat….

I know. I was breathless when I first saw it. I knew ya’d love it. Ready ta see the stable, barn, and our bungalow?

She nodded.

Down a bit further, he turned the gig toward the right, and they rode a short way to the stable, riding rings, and other fenced areas. My goodness. I cannot believe how big the stable is. How many horses do they own?

Twenty, and next spring, we’ll have more. Several of the mares are expectin’. Storm, sired, most of them. I’ll break ‘em when they’re ready; then they’ll go to auction. All the horses are Arabians, and they fetch a pretty penny. You’ll love seein’ the foals in the spring.

A short way from the stable and past the barn, Nat pulled up to what looked to be a bungalow and stopped the gig. This is home, Maddy.

She jumped down. It looks charming, and you have your own English garden. Did you plant the flowers around it?

I did. Thought ya might need a bit of beauty at our place.

I have the most thoughtful brother. Thank you, Nat. Can I go in?

Of course. Go on in and see what ya think. I’ll bring our bags inside.

Maddy hurried in, stopping just inside the door to let her eyes adjust. A heavenly fragrance filled the air. Finally seeing what scented the room, she gasped. The most beautiful bouquet of flowers she had ever seen sat on a small kitchen table. She walked over and leaned in to smell the various colored roses, then looked over the rest of the room.

The main wall had a rock fireplace. Two chairs sat apart, facing it, a stool sat on the right, and an oil lamp on a small table on the left. The back wall, near the kitchen table, contained a cabinet with a working area for preparing food beneath it, a wash station with a window above, and beside it on the right, a small wood stove. Windows on either side of the door brought in sunlight.

Nat strode in with their bags and closed the door with his foot. How do ya like the flowers?

They’re wonderful. Thank you, Nat.

It wasn’t me. I asked one of the young ladies who works at the manor ta have ‘em here as a welcome home gift for ya. Sarah did a better job than I had hoped. I’ll have ta thank ‘er. Let me show ya yer room. He set his bag down and carried in the bags with her new clothes. Well, here ‘tis. I hope ya like it.

Maddy stepped into the small but cozy room. The far window had blue cotton curtains and a lovely quilt, with rose, and blue hues, covering her bed. Nat, she said, touching it, this lovely quilt looks new.

Tis. Several of the women have been takin’ a little time each night over the last months ta work on it fer ya. They were excited hearin’ that my sister was comin’ ta live with me and help in the stables.

Tears rose in her eyes. I can’t wait to meet them all and thank them. I love the room. She sat on the bed to test it. Oh, this feels wonderful. Nat, I can’t thank you enough. She jumped up and gave him a tight hug.

We’re just in time fer supper, but we’d better hurry, cuz I’ve also got ta park the gig back by the stable and put Storm in his stall. Oh, and I’ve got ta get yer other bags from the gig. Then we’ll ride ta the stables.

After parking the gig, Nat unhitched Storm and got him settled in his stall.

I never imagined how large a stable you worked in. It’s massive. Far bigger than the one Da worked in.

Indeed, it’s probably three times the size o’ that one and much more elaborate, what with the rock walls, black iron bars, and latches.

Maddy put her arm through Nat’s as they walked to the kitchen. She could not wait to walk inside the manor, even if only their kitchen. Never in her life had she been in such a magnificent place.

Chapter Four

Walking at a fast pace beside Nate to the kitchen, Maddy gazed at the massive stone manor house and noticed on the right side of the manor where the property sloped down, there were four stories, where the property sloped down.

I love the vines creeping over the stones. Look how high they’ve grown. It gives the place a warmer, homier look. Without them, I think the manor might look a little cold—and all those windows. Goodness, what a job to keep them clean.

Nat laughed. Aw, Maddy, the things ya think of. They came to a narrow, arched mahogany door on the side of the manor facing their bungalow, which was a good hundred yards away. This is the door we enter and gather to eat with staff. Are ya ready?

She nodded enthusiastically, and he opened the door. The scents of roast and freshly baked bread assailed her amid the sounds of chatter and clattering.

Maddy smiled, excited to meet those she’d work with. Everyone seemed to turn at once. Welcome home, Maddy! they chimed. Her hands flew to her mouth.

Hello, Miss Maddy. We’re so glad to have you with us. A well-dress man said, stepping up to her. He took her hand and kissed it. My name is Holden. I’m the head butler. He took a bow and said, May I escort you to the table?

Eyes wide, she took his arm and let him lead her to the end of a long bench, where three place settings remained. She slid down the bench, Nat slid down beside her, and Holden followed. The bench on the other side of the table was almost full. Except for a couple of seats left for the women who were putting food on the table, and a man who stood by a large stove. Holden leaned forward and spoke to her, If you’re ever in need of anything, let me or Sarah know.

Sarah raised her hand and smiled.

Are you the one who put those beautiful flowers in our bungalow?

The lovely girl, with the bright blue eyes, and a wayward red curl, which had slipped from her cap, blushed. Nat said, She is, indeed.

Thank you. Their sweet fragrance filled the room.

Sarah tipped her head.

You can meet everyone else after we eat, the chef said, scowling. I like the food I cook eaten while it is still hot.

While heaping plates and bowls of food passed around the table, Nat leaned over and whispered, That would be Francké. He’s from France, our head chef, and a bear, but he prepares delicious food for the family of the house, and for us, of course. Sometimes there’s enough leftover for us to have a taste o’ some o’ his better ‘cuisine’ when the family has guests.

Maddy smiled at her brother. She thought the chef must do a lot of taste testing while preparing food, for he looked portly, and his cheeks were bright red. She assumed from too much drink. There was much banter around the table. One of the young men looked at her from across the table. Nat, ya didn’t tell us what a beauty yer sister is.

The girl sitting beside him elbowed his side, frowning at him. Heads suddenly went down and quieted. Oh, dear. I don’t want to spawn any jealousy. People had always commented on her large blue eyes.

Nat chuckled. Drake works for me in the stables, and the two of ‘em are always at it. But don’t let ‘em fool ya, Maddy. They’re in love.

Maddy followed what the others did and made a sandwich with the beef and bread, leaving off the raw onion, preventing a stomachache later. If cooked, she would pile it on. Onions only bothered her when eaten raw. Her brother, on the other hand, could eat an entire raw onion without any problem. She took a generous portion of the braised red cabbage, wondering if it was as good as their mum used to make.

Taking a bite with the three-pronged fork, she savored its sweetness. Francké must have stolen Mum’s recipe. It’s just as good or better. Francké, your red cabbage rivals our mum’s. God rest her soul. It’s delicious.

I should hope so, he said, sounding offended.

There were chuckles around the table, including Nat. She sat wide-eyed, having meant it as a compliment. To change the subject, she said, I want to thank those who made the beautiful quilt. I’ve never had anything so beautiful.

You’re welcome, came from several in the group of women, including Sarah.

Tomorrow, Nat said, I’ll be showin’ Maddy the stable and the horses with which she’ll be workin’. But since she just got out o’ school, I want ‘er to enjoy some time off before she starts.

Maddy straightened. What are you talking about? I’m ready to start now. No need to pamper me, Nat.

If yer sure—I guess it won’t matter cuz you’ll only be workin’ ‘bout half the day, or however long it takes ya ta groom the three horses I’m puttin’ in yer charge. The rest o’ the time is yers ta do what ya want.

No pampering? Indeed! a female staff member said. Wish we had it so easy. We work our fingers to the bone from sunup to sundown every single day, with few days off. Heads nodded in agreement.

Maddy slunk down in her seat, realizing how privileged she was to work for her brother. Would the others, who worked for him, resent her, too?