She didn’t have to ask him twice. He covered her mouth with his, and she opened to him. John thought he was experienced, but her innocent kisses undid him. He didn’t know what he’d do if anything ever happened to her.

CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO

CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO

Eleanor and John broke apart at the sound of people coming down the steps, and she put her arm through his as they waited. Fortunately, the maids and footmen arrived at the same time the cook was leaving. Soon, Rennie had everyone in hand. Eleanor really had not thought there would be much more to do than refurbish the house. Yet this morning had made clear that the house needed much more.

“We won’t get any tea until this mess is cleaned up.” One maid filled a sink with water, while another got out buckets and mops. The servants here seemed willing to do what they must. “Shall I take you home?”

“Yes.” She glanced at her brooch watch. It was much later than she had thought. “It is almost time for luncheon. That will also give me an opportunity to ask Jacques if he has any recommendations for a new cook.”

“Jacques?” John looked confused. “Who is he? Wouldn’t the housekeeper be the one to help find a cook?”

“Jacques is our chef de cuisine. He assisted one of my sisters when she required a new cook. Apparently, he is still involved with the servants in the émigré community. That is how I found my maid. She is of French descent on her mother’s side and trained with one of the French dressers.”

“In that case, please speak to him straightaway.” They started up the stairs that she supposed went to the hall, where sunlight poured though the fan window over the door.

“The rain has stopped. Do you mind walking to Berkeley Square?” Her hat might look strange, but Eleanor wanted the exercise.

“Not at all. If it is warm, I’ll have your coat brought over.”

“Thank you.” She had not really thought about how considerate he was.

Lumner opened the door and bowed. “Shall I have a footman follow you with your coat, my lady?”

“That would be perfect, Lumner.” It seemed everyone in the house was conscious. “We are very glad you will soon be here, my lady.”

“As am I.” She smiled at the butler as she and John strolled out the door. She would have liked to hold his hand but constrained herself, taking his arm instead. The rain seemed to have made the air cleaner. “I will ask Jacques to attend us during luncheon.”

“Thank you.” He slid her a smile. “It occurred to me that if you had not agreed to come today, I would not have known about the problems in my own house.”

Eleanor was surprised Lady Montagu had not taken more of a role. “Does your mother not like the town house?”