Page 30 of Forbidden: Claude

Claude left the room. Evelina stood speechless, not knowing how to respond.

“Rose, I have a feelin’ ye are no’ really needin’ soul cakes or undergarments at all,” said Isobel. “What are ye up to?” She crossed her arms over her chest and looked at Rose from the corners of her eyes.

“Isobel, whatever do you mean?” asked Rose, walking over to the pouch of coins on the table and scooping it up, giving it to Evelina. “Here you go. That should be more than enough. Be sure to pick up a nice gown for yourself as well while you are at the clothier’s shop.”

“A gown? For me?” asked Evelina. Rose leaned in closer and whispered. “Claude likes the colors of blue and purple the best. And if you have a chance, get yourself a bottle of rosewater too. The scent of rosewater is one of his favorites.”

Evelina gripped the pouch of coins tightly in her hand. Her heart beat faster. Thinking of being alone with Claude sent a spiral of heat surging through her. “How do I know what kind of undergarments to get for you?” asked Evelina.

“Oh, just get whatever you’d like. I trust your judgment.” Rose swiped her hand through the air in a dismissing manner.

“Thank you, Rose,” said Evelina, feeling uncomfortable. She couldn’t take what was offered until she told Rose the truth. “I need to tell you something first. Once you hear what I have to say, you might change your mind.”

“Evelina,” came Claude’s bellow from the corridor. He appeared in the open doorway with a scowl on his face. “God’s eyes, what is taking you so long? We need to move faster. If you are going to be tagging along, I won’t have you slowing me down. Do you understand?”

Evelina felt as if she were never going to be able to tell Rose the truth. She didn’t move, not knowing what to do.

“Whatever you have to tell me can wait until later,” Rose told her.

“That’s right,” said Isobel. “Now go on and get outta here so I can take Rose to town. Our shoes await us.”

“Thank you,” whispered Evelina, clutching the pouch and hurrying to join Claude.