Whether or not anyone had guessed about Ruth's burgeoning feelings for Edward yet or not would not be found out for some time. No one was going to pressure her about the look she gave him when she saw him sitting by her bed while she was still fresh from her episode. It was doubtful that the man himself noticed and as for his own feelings, it was hard to say, his concern was evident but how deep it ran and the reason behind it was hard to tell with him so muddled.

Edward did prove reluctant when asked to leave. He'd been relieved to see Ruth up and aware of herself once more but with her episode so recent he wasn't sure if she was alright. Eventually, he'd given way to the doctor's request though and stepped outside to wait for further information. When it was suggested she be given some time away from her duties he nodded his head even before Mister Lane could speak up.

"Of course, she will be taken care of."

Of that, there could be no doubt. It was becoming readily apparent to most who knew his story that, at least in part, he must be transposing his guilt and shame about failing his wife and unborn child and transposing at least some of those feelings onto the single mother and her babe. The man was clearly fiercely protective of her. How deeply and completely he'd done so in his mind was impossible to tell, he didn't seem delusional so it was hard to say how dangerous this might be to his mental health.

Either way, it was made abundantly clear to the staff that even if Ruth was not working for her keep she didn't need to do so. Not while Edward had what authority he did. It wasn't as though the family couldn't afford it and his younger brother would not jeopardize Edward's slowly recovering mental health by going contrary to his wishes. For the moment Ruth was safe and as she stared at the wall she heard the door open.

Edward stepped back in and settled a potted plant on her table. A sprig of Lavender he'd had Albert take from the garden, the scent of it was supposed to be calming. Since her episode seemed to have been inflicted by issues of the mind his thought was that such a plant would help her avoid further issues. Since she had her back turned to him he assumed she must have fallen back asleep so he turned to leave without a word to let her rest.