Page 31 of Eleanor’s Earrings

“Inventory, Caroline.”

“Aye, Captain.”

“Why are there seven of you watching me?” Eleanor asked.

“Eight,” Nathaniel said from behind her.

She turned. “You do not count.”

“That is hurtful.”

Lydia grinned. “We are waiting to see whether you thank him again.”

“For what?”

“The earring.”

“I already thanked him.”

Rebecca said, “Very politely.”

Caroline added, “With words this time.”

Nathaniel looked interested. “Was another method under consideration?”

“No,” Eleanor said.

“Yes,” Lydia said.

“Lydia.”

Nathaniel folded his arms. “I believe Miss Whitaker has spoken. Although I am willing to hear the alternatives.”

Seven sisters erupted.

Eleanor stared at him.

Nathaniel lasted two seconds before laughing.

“You are becoming a bad influence.”

“On whom?”

“My sisters.”

Caroline shook her head. “He arrived too late.”

“Much too late,” Rebecca agreed.

Nathaniel looked at Eleanor. “Apparently I am innocent.”

“You have never been innocent.”

His eyebrows rose.

Eleanor realized what she had said.

“Not one word.”