Page 47 of Eleanor’s Earrings

“You should,” Rebecca said. “I already checked it.”

Eleanor folded her arms. “Things change.”

Nathaniel coughed.

She looked at him. “Do not.”

“I said nothing.”

“You were about to.”

“I was breathing.”

Rebecca said, “That is what he always claims.”

Nathaniel looked wounded. “You too?”

“I learn quickly.”

Eleanor pointed at her. “Go check the oxen.”

“I already did.”

“Check them again.”

Rebecca grinned. “Things change.”

Nathaniel turned away laughing.

Eleanor stared after her. “I am surrounded by disloyalty.”

“You trained them well.”

“I did not train them to mock me.”

“No. That appears natural.”

Eleanor looked at him.

Nathaniel smiled.

“That can be corrected.”

“How?”

“I have seven sisters.”

His smile faded slightly.

Eleanor nodded. “Exactly.”

*****

BREAKFAST THE NEXT morning led to a disagreement over the last biscuit.

Lucy reached for it.

So did Lydia.