CHAPTER 15 AN INVITATION TO SOMERSET

The sun streamed through the windows of the dining room, casting warm rays over the well-dressed Fitzwilliam family as they sat down for breakfast. "The weather has been unseasonably warm, has it not?" Mr. Fitzwilliam remarked as he folded his newspaper. "The crops will be ready for harvest sooner than expected." Victoria Fitzwilliam sipped her tea, her eyes flicking to the open window where birdsong filled the air. "Indeed, the heat has made for an early growing season. But I wonder if the rains will come soon enough to sustain the crops." "Father, perhaps the farmhands could begin to irrigate the fields early?" Mary offered, trying to impress her parents with her knowledge of farming. Mr. Fitzwilliam nodded thoughtfully, stroking his chin. "A wise suggestion, Mary. But the cost of such an endeavor is not insignificant. The farm has already stretched its budget this year." As they spoke, Jane stayed silent, her eyes focused on the food in front of her. Her mind was still plagued