"I understand, Mrs. Mercer," Ashton replied politely.

"Working all morning must have been tiring. I brought lunch for everyone; please have some," Tessa said, her tone softening into that of a caring mother.

Ashton nodded his thanks and went to eat. As she watched him walk away, Tessa remarked, "That young man seems strong and handy."

I understood the subtle implication behind her words. She saw Ashton as a mere laborer. Last night, Logan had been ...