Chapter 114: The Garden Surprise
"Good morning, Your Grace," Sarah greeted with a respectful bow as Salviana stepped out from her husband’s office and into the elegant parkour garden.
"Lovely morning, Sarah. How are you?" Salviana replied, a soft warmth in her smile.
"I am well, my lady. What may I assist you with?" Sarah asked as Emma, one of the more refined maids, entered and stood attentively by Sarah’s side. Salviana settled gracefully into a chair, her gaze thoughtful.
"The basket of goods from yesterday, please," Salviana requested, deciding it was time to organize her recent purchases.
"Of course, Your Grace," Sarah replied, nodding before retrieving the woven basket. As she set it before Salviana, Emma’s curiosity was clear, her gaze fixed on the items nestled within.
Salviana sifted through the basket until her hand paused over a delicate, golden hairpin. It was adorned with intricate filigree work, designed to resemble a delicate sprig of leaves winding around a small gemstone in the center, gleaming subtly in the light.
"Here, take this," Salviana said, holding the hairpin out toward Emma. "It reminded me of you when I saw it."
Emma’s eyes widened as she approached, almost reverently, to accept the gift. "My lady..." she gasped, clutching the pin.
Salviana offered a small, gentle smile, continuing to sort through the basket. She took out a small packet of flower seeds and set it aside, planning for the day when she would start her own garden. As she looked up, she noticed Emma blinking back tears, her lower lip quivering.