Page 139 of Eleanor’s Earrings

“Yes,” he said.

One word.

No qualification.

No caution.

Eleanor felt it more deeply than praise.

“Thank you.”

“For what?”

“Not trying to improve the plan.”

“I could.”

“I know.”

“I have three suggestions.”

She stared.

Nathaniel grinned.

Eleanor threw a rolled blanket at him.

He caught it awkwardly with his left hand and immediately regretted the jolt through his injured shoulder.

She rushed forward. “Your shoulder?”

“Fine.”

“You winced.”

“I was surprised.”

“You are a terrible liar.”

“You married me in your mind five minutes ago, and now you are insulting me.”

Eleanor froze.

Nathaniel’s smile widened.

“I did not.”

“You did.”

“How would you know?”

“You made the face.”

“What face?”

“The one you make when imagining something you intend to deny.”

Eleanor narrowed her eyes.