She chuckles. "Come. I'll introduce you to the other staff properly."
We turn into a sitting room where two women are arranging flowers on a long table. One of them looks up first, dark curls pulled into a messy bun, sleeves rolled up.
"Oh," she says, eyes widening and a blush rushing up her face. "You must be her."
Margaret nods. "Elaine.... This is Ruth and Celia."
Ruth wipes her hands on her apron and steps forward immediately. "It's nice to finally meet you Mrs, we were wondering when we would get to put a face to the chaos."
"The chaos?" I repeat.
Celia grins. "Don't worry. That's kind of a compliment around here."
I laugh before I can stop myself. It slips out easily, surprising me. "Good. I would hate to disappoint on day one."
They visibly relax instantly, ruth gestures to the flowers. "If you ever want any other flowers instead of roses, say the word. He prefers roses. We don't."
"That tracks," I say.
Margaret gives me a look but doesn't argue.
