Help bring out the food

The afternoon was drawing to a close.

With the hunting party preparing to return to Kingsmere Hall, the remaining platters, baskets and serving trays had to be carried back to the waiting carriages.

Martha tossed you a wicker basket.

"Since you're standing there looking useful, you can carry that one."

"I was hoping you'd ask."

"Careful."

She smirked.

"I might start believing you enjoy manual labour."

Together, the servants formed a loose procession towards the carriages waiting near the main path.

You had just placed your basket onto one of the wagons when a familiar voice reached you.

"Excuse me."

You turned.

Lady Charlotte stood a few paces away, holding a folded riding cloak across her arms.

One of the buttons had come loose.

"I'm terribly sorry to trouble you. I wondered whether you might know where I should leave this."

You accepted the garment.

"I believe Mrs. Wilcox has been collecting the ladies' things, my lady."

"Would you be so kind?"

"Of course."

She smiled gratefully.

"Thank you."

As you began walking together towards the servants' wagons, Charlotte glanced curiously towards the bustling field kitchen.

"It all seems rather... busy... but organised"

You laughed.

"It may not look like it."

"But everyone knows exactly where they're supposed to be."

"I'm beginning to suspect the servants keep this estate running more than any of us."

"I'm not sure Lord Ashcombe would appreciate hearing that."

She smiled.

"Then perhaps we shall keep it between ourselves."

"I think that would be wise."

For a few moments you walked in comfortable silence.

Charlotte looked towards the distant woodland where the hunt had taken place.

"I've always liked watching everyone prepare for these gatherings."

"There's something comforting about seeing people work together."

"I think Martha would agree with you."

"Oh?"

Charlotte looked amused.

"Is she still frightening the footmen into behaving?"

"Without a doubt."

Charlotte laughed softly.

"Good."

"They deserve it from time to time."

You reached the servants' wagon, and Charlotte accepted the cloak once more after you had secured the loose button.

"I appreciate your help, Mr. Thomas."

"It was hardly a great service."

"Perhaps not. But thank you anyway”

For a brief moment your eyes met.

Then voices called Charlotte back towards the assembled guests.

"I should return."

"They'll be wondering where I've disappeared to."

"I'm sure they will."

She offered you a warm smile.

"I hope we have another opportunity to speak before you leave Kingsmere."

"I hope so too, my lady."

With a graceful nod, she turned and rejoined the hunting party.

You watched her go for a moment before Martha's unmistakable voice carried across the camp.

"There you are!"

"If you've finished charming the nobility, I've still got three crates that won't carry themselves."

You smiled to yourself.