Page 54 of Eleanor’s Earrings

“Borrowing.”

“You criticize my stubbornness and then steal my methods.”

“I am learning from the best.”

She tried to look severe. She knew she failed by the look on his face.

Nathaniel rested one arm against the wagon. “How are you?”

“Bored.”

“Good.”

“That is a terrible thing to say.”

“Bored means not in pain.”

“I can be both.”

“That sounds like you.”

Eleanor folded her arms. “You are enjoying having me trapped under here.”

“A little.”

“I knew it.”

“You are easier to argue with when you cannot walk away.”

“I can throw things.”

Nathaniel looked around. “What do you have?”

Eleanor picked up a folded stocking.

He immediately stepped back.

“Wise man.”

“I remember the laundry incident.”

Her eyes widened. “You said you would never mention that.”

“I said nothing to anyone else.”

“That still counts.”

“I disagree.”

“Of course you do.”

Nathaniel smiled. “You look better.”

The words were gentle enough to stop the argument.

Eleanor looked away.

“Thank you.”