Page 16 of The Duke’s Christmas Redemption

“His Grace prefers everything run with absolute efficiency,” the housekeeper explained, showing Charlotte the meticulously kept account books. “He restored order to the household after... well, after the difficult times.”

Charlotte heard the unspoken reference to William’s father’s mismanagement.

“The house clearly benefits from such careful attention. Though I notice several positions remain unfilled?”

“His Grace has been... cautious with expenditures,” Mrs Walden said diplomatically. “Though now that the estate’s prosperity is restored, perhaps some additional staff might be considered.”

The afternoon light shifted as Charlotte absorbed the complexities of her new domain. Mrs Walden’s methodical explanations painted a picture of a household run with military precision, every detail carefully considered and controlled. Yet Charlotte couldn’t help noticing signs of strain beneath the surface - too few maids for the number of rooms, gaps in the usual hierarchy of household staff that meant some servants were performing double duties.

“The kitchen gardens provide most of our vegetables and herbs,” Mrs Walden continued, turning to a new page in the household book. “Though the head gardener says we could increase production significantly with another pair of hands. At present, we must supplement with purchases from local farmers more often than strictly necessary.”

Charlotte made a careful note.

“And the conservatory His Grace mentioned? Could that not provide fresh fruits and flowers through the winter months?”

“When it was properly maintained, yes.” Mrs Walden’s tone held careful neutrality. “The previous Duchess grew oranges and lemons there, among other things. But since the repairs became necessary...”

She trailed off diplomatically.

“I see.” Charlotte closed the household book, her mind already cataloguing possibilities. “Mrs Walden, I should like to tour the house properly before I dress for dinner. Would you be so kind as to show me through?”

The housekeeper’s approval became more evident as they proceeded through the house. Charlotte asked intelligent questions about each room’s purpose and maintenance, noting which areas needed attention and which systems worked well.

The library particularly caught her attention - two stories of books in gleaming shelves, with tall windows providing excellent light for reading.

“His Grace often works here in the evenings,” Mrs Walden volunteered. “The previous Duke preferred the smaller study for business matters, but His Grace says the library helps him think more clearly.”

Charlotte could understand why.

The room held a peaceful atmosphere despite its grandeur, with comfortable chairs placed near the windows and small tables positioned conveniently for books and writing materials. She could easily imagine spending winter evenings here, if William didn’t object to sharing the space.

Their tour concluded in the family dining room, a handsomely proportioned chamber with windows overlooking the terraced gardens. The table was already being set for dinner, fine silver gleaming in the late afternoon light.

“Sarah will help you dress for dinner, Your Grace,” Mrs Walden said. “Unless there’s anything else you require?”

“No, thank you. You’ve been most helpful.” Charlotte paused, then added, “I know that managing any change in routine can be difficult for a household. I hope that you’ll feel free to advise me if I inadvertently disturb any of His Grace’s preferred arrangements.”

The housekeeper’s expression softened slightly.

“Your Grace is very considerate. I believe that you’ll find your own way of managing things, in time. His Grace values competence above all else - demonstrate that, and he’ll trust your judgment.”

Back in her chambers, Sarah helped her change into an evening gown of pale blue silk. As the maid dressed her hair, Charlotte studied her reflection in the ornate dressing table mirror. The Duchess looking back at her seemed both familiar and strange - still Charlotte, but somehow more. The diamond drops William had sent as a wedding gift sparkled at her ears, completing her transformation into Her Grace of Alverton.

A soft tap at her sitting room door heralded a footman.

“His Grace asks if you would like him to escort you to dinner, Your Grace.”

Charlotte’s heart quickened.

“Please inform His Grace that I would be delighted.”

She had just finished putting on her evening slippers when William appeared in her sitting room doorway. He had changed for dinner as well, as was customary, his dark evening clothes emphasising the breadth of his shoulders and the stern elegance of his bearing.

“I trust that you’ve found everything satisfactory?” he asked, offering his arm.

“Very much so.” Charlotte placed her hand on his sleeve, acutely aware of his solid presence beside her. “Mrs Walden has been most thorough in explaining the household arrangements.”

They descended the stairs together, their steps falling into natural rhythm.