Due to the restricted space on the slope where the castle stood, the gardens were not so extensive or elaborate as those at Cleobury. But Cecily imagined possibilities of what she might do to improve the grounds, particularly the small, walled garden she discovered this morning. Fruit trees grew in each corner, and a low fountain burbled in the center of the garden, where the paths all met. Perhaps her rose might do well around the fountain. Before Cecily could contemplate further plans, someone approached. It was none other than Myfanwy. Cecily’s heart beat faster, anticipating an unpleasant exchange. Cecily suspected that the other woman embodied every secret dream men had. Her body was plump and curved outrageously, and those curves were quite evident due to the low cut of her gown and the lacing at the waist. Her hair was a tumult of blue-black curls, worn loose. She had a habit of curling one lock of hair around her finger in a way that Cecily knew was suggestive, through she couldn’t quite say why.
