“Try these.” Samuel handed her a brown nut tart. “They are my favourite. From America. Potter knows, so she makes them every week. Pecan tarts. We brought a supply of pecans with us.”
“Pecan tarts?” She bit into one and was assailed by its deep sweetness, and closed her eyes. “So sweet. It’s delicious.”
Dobkins tried one as well. She leant over and quietly asked, “Are you worried Murdock might find you?”
“Even if he does, what can he do? I’m officially Samuel Lyon, born in New York City. He can’t prove I am not.”
“Lady Vivienne.” The captain entered the room, carrying his leather medical bag and beaming. “It’s a pleasure to see you.”
Dobkins shot up to her feet, choking on the tart. Gagging noises came out of her. Her face reddened.
The captain grabbed her from behind and pressed her abdomen until she let out a loud gasp.
“Heavens.” Vivienne put a hand on her chest.
The captain smiled, still holding Dobkins. “Next time you want me to hug you, just say it. No need to risk your life.”
Dobkins slanted him a glare.
Captain Jackson helped Dobkins sit down. “Did you miss me?”
Samuel handed Dobkins a cup of tea. “Have some.”
“Goodness.” She glanced at the captain. “You caught me off guard. But yes. I missed you a little.”
They smiled at each other with a tenderness new to Samuel.
Vivienne took Captain Jackson’s hand. “Dear Captain.”
The captain’s smile vanished as he studied her. “Lady Vivienne.” He hugged her.
“You took very good care of Samuel,” she said.
“Sometimes I think it’s the other way around.” The captain sat in front of her and opened his bag. “Samuel has told me about his concerns regarding your health. I’m aware you got sick with pneumonia and suffered from permanent lung damage?” He opened his medical bag.
She nodded. “I have respiratory problems, and my heart isn’t strong.”
Samuel dismissed the only servant and Dobkins got up and closed the door.
“May I examine you?”
“Yes.” A little shiver went through her.
“Do I need to leave?” Samuel asked.
“Stay. Tell me about your symptoms, Vivienne.” The captain held her wrist and checked her pulse.
“Well, mostly I’m tired. Fatigue never leaves me. I feel weak and sleepy. I have a constant ache in my chest, difficulty breathing, and dizziness.”
“She suffers from itchy skin and rashes as well,” Dobkins said.
The captain auscultated her back and asked her to cough a few times.
“And I run a fever oftentimes.” Vivienne exhaled.
“Hmm.” The captain studied her eyes for a long time. “Push out your tongue, please.”
She did as told.
