She looked toward the dark fields beyond the stable yard. "There is always something that needs repair." The answer felt heavier than it should have.
Nathaniel studied her expression. "Does that ever bother you?"
"What?"
"Doing the work and letting someone else take credit?"
For a moment, he thought she might refuse to answer. Instead, she smiled sadly. "You notice more than most people."
Nathaniel said nothing.
Genevieve rested one hand against the stall door. "When I was younger, it bothered me constantly." Her voice softened. "Now I try not to think about it."
"That does not sound healthy."
She laughed. "Probably not." The humor faded quickly. "The truth is that arguments rarely change anything."
Nathaniel felt frustration rise again. "Sometimes they should."
Genevieve met his gaze. Something vulnerable appeared there for just an instant. "Sometimes..." Then it disappeared.
Footsteps echoed across the courtyard. A servant approached carrying a stack of correspondence. "Miss Carter."
Genevieve straightened immediately. "Yes?"
"Your father would like these reports reviewed before tomorrow morning." The servant handed her several folders.
Nathaniel glanced at the documents: estate finances, crop records, infrastructure assessments—hours of work. Genevieve accepted them without complaint. "Thank you."
The servant departed.
Nathaniel looked at the stack. "You are reviewing all of that tonight?"
"Most likely."
"It is nearly dark."
"I noticed."
"And your father asked you to do it?"
"Requested."
Nathaniel raised an eyebrow.