Snippet #1262863

“Another fine morning, wouldn’t you say my dear?” Devin looked across the greenhouse in admiration, seated at a delicate white garden chair. From his position underneath the shade of the parasol, the composition of colours, mixed amongst the green and streaks of sunlight, painted a breathtaking picture, one that Devin would never tire of seeing.

Raising his tea to his mouth once more, he soaked in the aroma for a moment before taking a sip, closing his eyes to greater appreciate the flavour, as well as intently listening to his conversation partner, smiling to himself.

“Now don’t be like that.” Devin placed his empty cup to the glass table. “Its beauty can’t compare to you, my darling.” Extending his hand, Devin stroked the side of her cheek.

“Talking to the local flora again, Young Master Winsley?” A middle aged man approached Devin, taking the cup and placing it on his silver tray, quite clearly the butler.

“As always Xavier. Sometimes I feel I’m the only one who truly takes some time to appreciate its variety…” Devin turned from the rose he had held, the delicate sway of its petals and distilled water within the vase the only sign he had disturbed the flower. Rising from his seat, Devin moved over to a nearby Lilac bush, adjusting the direction of their petals.

“You certainly do take the time to appreciate that variety, my young master.” Xavier spoke in a tone of complete understanding. “Shall I fetch you some more tea?”

“That won’t be necessary.” Devin noticed a nearby caterpillar on the leaves of the Lilac bush, laying his hand out to allow it to climb on, cradling it. “I have business to attend to in town, given the letter I received the other day.”

Xavier watched Devin hold the insect for a couple more moments, the way his master had approached him indicative he had more to say.

“The delicate balance of the world…” Devin mumbled some more to himself, musing on the workings of life. “It’s self sufficient, a delicate cycle that nature itself governs…”

With little hesitation, Devin clenched his hand, crushing the bug in his palm. Removing his glove, he handed it to Xavier. “Could you perhaps wash that for me Xavier? I seem to have stained it.”

“Of course Young Master Winsley. I’ll return it to Florence, and prep the car for our departure.” Xavier regarded Devin, and that cold calculating expression of his, the young master taking his jacket from his chair, exiting the greenhouse. The Master’s mood had changed somewhat in the past few days, ever since that letter had arrived. It did not augur well with the servant, but he would perform his duty, regardless.