Page 148 of Eleanor’s Earrings

“Absolutely not.”

Lydia smiled. “I will help.”

Eleanor and Nathaniel both said, “No.”

Lydia looked delighted.

Nathaniel turned back to Eleanor. “You are hovering.”

“I am not.”

“You are.”

“I am sitting.”

“You can hover while seated.”

“That is physically impossible.”

“I have seen you do it.”

Eleanor poured his coffee.

Nathaniel accepted the cup.

“Thank you.”

“You are welcome.”

He took one drink.

“Too strong?”

“No.”

“Too weak?”

“No.”

“Too cold?”

Nathaniel stared at her.

Eleanor realized what she was doing.

Lydia whispered, “Hovering.”

Eleanor pointed toward the firewood.

Lydia went willingly.

Nathaniel smiled over his cup. “I find this side of you very charming.”

“What side?”

“The one pretending not to fuss.”

“I do not fuss.”