Richard smiled at Jasmine.
“I will find the Countess now to ask her,” he said. He winked at Jasmine. “Do not worry. I am most persuasive.” He kissed Jasmine on the cheek, then went to find the Countess. Patricia frowned at Jasmine.
“Penelope…do you refer to the former Duke’s daughter?” she asked. Jasmine nodded. “Why do you wish her to be your servant?”
“She sought me out, as she knew I would treat her well,” Jasmine replied. She was truthful, but also kept to herself the finer details. “She seems quite a sweet girl.”
“She is. And she loves babies. I would imagine she would be thrilled to assist in the care of sweet young Bry.”
“I would like some help,” Jasmine admitted. Patricia chuckled.
“I get the feeling you are eager to no longer care for three babies on your own.”
“Honestly, Mistress, yes.”
“No need to sound ashamed or guilty. It is very hard work, dear girl,” Patricia said. Richard came back with the Countess and Penelope.
“Richard tells me you seek to have Penelope as your servant?” the Countess asked haughtily. Jasmine nodded and curtseyed. “Hmph. Well, I have no qualms about ridding myself of this girl. She is hopeless for even the most basic of tasks, and is achingly plain. Not to mention, she is a former royal, and who would want a former royal in their house?” Penelope, standing behind the Countess, blushed in embarrassment. “Are you sure you wish to have to deal with her?”
“I am more than happy to train her in whatever tasks she may need,” Jasmine replied. “I have knowledge of the chores, after all.” A mere month ago, Jasmine would have been just as clueless as Penelope, but after spending time as a servant herself, she felt confident she could teach Penelope everything she needed to know. And she wasn’t seeking out Penelope just because she wanted a servant anyways.
“True,” the Countess conceded. She looked at Penelope. “Well, girl?”
“I would be delighted to be in the service of Miss Smith.”
“Miss Smith for now,” Richard said, putting an arm around Jasmine’s shoulders. “But soon, she will be Lady Townshend.” Jasmine forced a smile at her betrothed. He smiled back, seemingly not noticing the effort behind her expression.
“Very well,” the Countess said dismissively. “Pack your things and go to the Muscats’ today. Jasmine can begin your training whilst she still has chores. After all, despite her willingness to teach you after becoming a noblewoman, it will not be her place to do so.” Penelope bowed her head, but Jasmine could see relief and excitement in her eyes.
Jasmine couldn’t help but feel the same emotions. Penelope would be able to help her with the babies. Yes, she still had to do the feeding, but with Penelope to assist in the babies’ other needs, Jasmine might finally get a full night’s sleep.