The estate's winter benefit was the largest fundraising event of the year. Ashcombe House opened its doors to donors, local officials, and people whose names appeared on buildings throughout Bellweather. The proceeds went to the Ashcombe Foundation, which funded clinics and community gardens.
I was asked to prepare the winter garden for the reception.
The request came through Peter, along with a list of tasks and a note that I would be paid for overtime. I asked him to put the amount in writing. He did, though his smile showed how much he disliked it.
The event was three days away. I cleaned the glass, trimmed the climbing roses, and moved the late varieties into the center of the greenhouse. The warm air helped, but my fingers still went numb when I worked without gloves.
I kept the l
