Mrs. Longhorn wrinkled her brow in confusion. Astrid had to be mistaken, Mrs. Longhorn decided. She went to the breakfast nook as the maid opened the windows.
“My, the sun is particularly bright this morning.” Mrs. Longhorn shielded her eyes.
“May I serve you coffee?”
“Yes.” Mrs. Longhorn nodded, then turned to her husband. “Leopold, get up darling, breakfast is here.” He groaned in protest and the maid politely pretended she had not heard him, busying herself at putting the cotton napkin in the mistress’ lap and briskly removing the silver tray.
The smell was overpowering. “Just coffee, Astrid.” Mrs. Longhorn did her best to keep her composure. She pushed back in the chair.
“Are you unwell missus?” The maid sounded genuinely concerned, she put the silver lid back on the tray.
“H
