The kitchen staff lingered even after Lady Rose had left the room, their faces a mixture of relief and embarrassment.
One of the older scullery maids hesitated before stepping toward Kyle, wringing her hands.
"Your Grace, please… don't hold this against our young miss. She—she really is trying her best. But she's young, and she hasn't had much experience managing an estate like this. Things have been hard for her since…"
She began softly.
The woman trailed off, glancing at the others before lowering her voice.
"…since certain troubles began a few weeks ago."
The head chef cleared his throat and joined in, his tone more resolute.
"She does have her faults, but she's been making an effort. For all her temper, we know she's trying to adapt, and we're… proud of her for it."
Kyle studied their earnest faces for a long moment before speaking.
"If you're proud of her, then help her. And that means not letting her pride run wild."
His voice was calm but edged with authority.
