Page 37 of Eleanor’s Earrings

“That is encouraging.”

Lydia stood. “I suddenly remember urgent work somewhere else.”

All seven sisters vanished with suspicious speed.

Nathaniel watched them go. “Did I frighten them?”

“No. They are attempting subtlety.”

“They are poor at it.”

“Very.”

He held out the sack. “Dried apples. Martha says you should eat something.”

“Martha has fed me twice.”

“She says you gave half of it to Lucy.”

“Lucy was hungry.”

“So are you.”

Eleanor accepted an apple slice. “Are you always this interfering?”

“No. Sometimes I sleep.”

She bit the apple to keep from smiling.

Nathaniel sat on the ground opposite her. “I have been thinking about the other day.”

“That sounds dangerous.”

“You entered the river after I told you not to.”

“You fell into it after I suggested that was unwise.”

“I did not fall deliberately.”

“Neither did I.”

“You ran.”

“To the rope attached to you.”

His jaw tightened. “I was afraid for you.”

Eleanor’s answer softened. “I know.”

“I do not want fear to turn me into a man who mistakes orders for care.”

She studied him. “That is a very specific thought.”

“I have had a long morning.”

“So have I.”

Nathaniel nodded toward the apple. “Eat.”