Help prepare the hunters' luncheon.

The hunting party had barely disappeared beyond the estate gates before activity shifted elsewhere.

Several wagons, already laden with food, tableware and cooking equipment, stood waiting in the service yard.

The midday luncheon would be served in the woods once the morning's hunt was over, and half the household seemed determined to ensure Lord Ashcombe's guests wanted for nothing.

Curiosity drew you towards the bustle.

"You there!"

Before you had a chance to announce yourself, a familiar voice rang out across the courtyard.

Martha Green was balancing an impossibly large basket against one hip while attempting to fasten the straps securing a crate to the back of a wagon.

She looked up.

"Oh. It's you."

"I thought I'd see if anyone needed a hand."

She snorted.

"Anyone?"

She gestured broadly towards the organised chaos surrounding her.

"Take your pick."

Without waiting for an answer, she thrust the heavy basket into your arms.

"Don't drop that."

You adjusted your grip.

"I wasn't planning to."

"Good."

She grinned.

For the next hour, you found yourself working alongside Martha as wagons were loaded with everything the hunting party might require.

Blankets.

Cutlery.

Wine.

Fresh bread wrapped in linen.

Roasted meats carefully packed to keep warm.

Every time one task was completed, another seemed to appear in its place.

"You move quicker than you look," Martha remarked as the two of you secured another crate.

"I'll choose to take that as a compliment."

"It was."

She tightened a length of rope with practiced hands.

"I've worked with enough gentlemen's servants to know most of them think lifting a basket is beneath them."

"And you expected the same of me?"

"I was prepared for it."

She gave you an appraising look.

"You've surprised me."

"I'm glad to hear it."

"Don't let it go to your head."

Despite the words, the smile tugging at the corner of her mouth betrayed her.

By the time the final wagon stood ready to depart, the frantic pace had finally begun to ease.

Martha wiped her brow with the back of one hand before looking over the neatly loaded supplies with obvious satisfaction.

"That should keep the ladies and gentlemen happy."

"For at least an hour."

She laughed.

"You're learning."

One of the coachmen called for everyone to clear the yard.

The wagons would soon follow the hunting party with the luncheon.

Martha stepped aside to let the first cart roll past.

"Thanks for the help, Thomas."

She hesitated for the briefest moment before adding,

"If you're ever looking to keep busy again..."

She shrugged casually.

"...I wouldn't mind having you around."

Coming from Martha, it sounded remarkably close to genuine praise.

With a satisfied nod, she climbed aboard the last wagon to make a few final checks, leaving you with the distinct impression that earning her respect was no easy task—but perhaps not quite as impossible as it first appeared.