Chapter 205

*LORENZO* When I enter the kitchen, it’s crowded and humming with the early morning banter of some of the staff, Jenkins among them. Seeing me, they all stand as one, a frankly feudal display of deference, which I find irritating. But I let it go. “Good morning, all. Please. Sit. Enjoy your breakfast.” There are various pleasant mutterings of “Don Lorenzo.” During its heyday, this Mansion would have employed well over three hundred and fifty staff, but now we manage with twelve full-time and about twenty part-time employees. We also have eight tenant farmers, whom I met on my recent trip. They raise livestock and various arable crops across ten thousand acres. All organic. Thanks to my father. By the tradition the outdoor and household staff eat at separate sittings. At this moment the assistant estate managers, the gamekeeper, assistant gamekeeper, and the gardeners are enjoying Jessie’s cooked breakfast. I note that mine is the only plate with French toast. “I hear you’ve had a break