Don’t Work Too Hard, Grace

Grace woke with a start, feeling a feathery touch on her face. Her eyes fluttered open to see Charles staring down at her, his hand still resting on her cheek.

"Good morning," he said softly, his innocent eyes filled with curiosity.

Grace sat up quickly, her heart pounding. "Good morning, Charles."

Her gaze shifted to the doorway, where she saw Rose, standing with a gentle smile on her face. 

The sight of the older woman made Grace's heart skip a beat. What must Rose think of her, the nanny, being the last one to wake up in the house? She felt a rush of embarrassment and guilt.

"I'm so sorry, Mrs. Brandon," Grace stammered, scrambling to get out of bed. "I didn't mean to sleep in so late. It's very unprofessional of me."

Rose walked into the room, her expression kind and understanding. "There's no need to apologize, Grace."