Page 11 of Beneath the Harvest Moon

“You’re a lady now. I won’t have you up at the crack of dawn like the rest of us.” Mama frowned. “What if you have visitors? You can’t be seen in that! Put on one of your silk frocks.”

“Why would anyone visit me? I told you, I am here to help. I cannot milk the cows, tend the garden, feed the hens or take care of Papa while wearing silk and taffeta.”

“I didn’t insist you marry well only to have you return and work your fingers to the bone like me. Ladies do not work.”

“I am not a lady.”

Mama braced her hands on her hips. “I’m still unhappy that you disobeyed me.”

Do not be deterred. “You should have told me Papa was unwell. Jane needs to rest, and you cannot do everything yourself.”

“Your father will be back to full health in no time. Jane’s a sturdy lass, and she’s already gone to the fields.”

“You cannot send her out on the cart in her condition!” She would have words with Jane about succumbing to Mama’s demands.

“I worked until I had to push you and John out. It will do her no good to be idle.” Mama paused with a crusty roll in mid-air. “I hope you’re not thinking what I think you’re thinking.”

Blythe placed a wheel of cheese into a basket. “Did Elijah go out with John?”

“Yes, and don’t change the subject.”

“What about Violet?”

“She’s having lessons with her governess like a proper young lady should.”

“I planned to show her how to feed the chickens and milk the cows, like I did when I was her age. While French and art are admirable, it will do her good to learn practical skills.”

Mama narrowed her gaze. “What are you planning, Blythe?”

Stand firm. “You know I was unhappy in York. I am a farmer’s daughter. I would have been a healer and a midwife. I was raised to be useful, not a decorative ornament.”

“You’re far too beautiful to waste your life digging a garden and making medicines.”

“It is what I have always wanted. I have no interest in gossiping with other rich men’s wives.”

“Do you know how many girls would love to change positions with you, to have such beauty they could catch any man and raise themselves up in the world?”

“Plenty, I am sure. But it is not what I want.”

Mama shook her head. “I don’t understand you. Have you not met anyone else who takes your fancy? Now you’re out of mourning, you could marry again.”

Blythe stiffened.

Mama never missed a thing. “You have, haven’t you!”

Blythe sighed. “Mr Drake has proposed. But only so he can gain my shares in the bank and control the children’s shares.”

“And have you accepted?” Mama’s eyes widened.

“No.”

“So, you have come home to make him wait a little.” Mama nodded. “Nothing keeps a man on his toes like uncertainty regarding a woman.”

“I do not plan to marry him.”

“You will. A few weeks here will change your mind.” Mama slapped her palms together. “Well, if you want to work, then I’m more than happy to let you.” She raised a finger. “But I don’t have time to supervise you. Can you remember what needs doing? There’s no room for mistakes, my girl, especially at harvest time.”

“I am sure I will manage.”