Page 131 of Eleanor’s Earrings

“She cries at night because she misses her grandmother. The doll belonged to her.”

Eleanor’s irritation softened. Lucy’s impulsiveness had always been tangled with tenderness. She saw a hurt and ran toward it before asking whether running was wise.

“You have a generous heart,” Eleanor said. “I would like you to keep it long enough to reach Oregon.”

Lucy smiled. “I will try.”

“Try harder.”

“Yes, Eleanor.”

A beat passed.

“Do you think Nathaniel will kiss you again today?”

Eleanor stared at her.

Lucy’s innocent expression was nearly perfect.

“Extra cups,” Eleanor said.

“How many?”

“All of them.”

“I knew asking was worth it.”

Eleanor walked away before Lucy saw her smile. She had no idea what kind of man would someday keep pace with Lucy. He would need quick reflexes.

Nathaniel attempted to teach Lucy a card game.

This was a mistake.

“You cheated,” he said.

Lucy looked scandalized. “I did not.”

“You had three queens.”

“That is luck.”

“There are only four in the deck.”

“Yes.”

“And Rebecca had two.”

Lucy looked at Rebecca.

Rebecca looked at the cards. “Oh.”

Eleanor folded her arms. “Explain.”

Lydia said, “I may have combined two decks.”

“Why?”

“It made the game more interesting.”