North Mansion Part 7

            James returned when he said and he continued to try to get to know his ward. Instead of both running separately in the morning, they took to working out together. At least partially, from what James could understand she also lifted weights and swam every day, but the varying time made it challenging for him to join her. He met the land’s tenants and farmers during the course of the next week. The girl chose to accompany him and soon enough he found out why. One of the renters had a son about her age and from he gathered, they hung out a good deal.

            “James, this is my friend Peter Blessing.”

            “Good to meet you, Peter.” James held out his hand, receiving a rather stiff greeting

            “You as well, milord.”

Eleanor caught her friend’s eye

            “Peter and I go hiking together on the weekends and hangout whenever we get a chance.”

            “I’m the only kid her age in the area.” He added “Everyone else is much younger.”

            “I see.” James said “And what do you do for school?”

The boy hung his head

            “After Dad left, I dropped school to work. I work in town at the grocery store, sir.”

James said nothing, but ideas were sparking in his mind. He kept himself from asking prying questions and guided the conversation to safer topics. 

Update: Insert paragraph: 

“Sir, may I have a word?” Mr. Flanders caught up to James in one of the corridors

            “Of course, Mr. Flanders, what about?”

The butler looked a little uncomfortable, but knew what needed to be done

            “Do you plan on continuing to leave periodically?”

            “At this time, I must. Why do you ask?”

            “I don’t mean to over step my position, but I am concerned for Eleanor. In your absence, she was not herself. I fear she feels Lord North’s death more keenly when alone.”

            “And what do you propose I do?”

The butler cleared his throat and maintained his demeanor and bearing

            “Take her with you sometimes. Find her a more engaging teacher then Mr. Clark. Talk with her or give her something to look forward to.” He appeared only slightly more awkward “These are merely suggestions, milord, I don’t want to…”

            “Don’t worry, Mr. Flanders. You have been here long enough to give advice, I believe. Thank you for bringing these concerns up. I will see that they are tended to.”

The butler began to leave

            “Thank you, milord.”

James reflected on the conversation and his ward’s behavior as he reached his office. He had to come up with a plan to help her with the grieving process of their father.