Page 55 of Eleanor’s Earrings

He nodded once and stepped away. A moment later she heard him laughing outside.

She threw the stocking anyway.

Charlotte poked her head out from under the wagon.

“You are enjoying this,” Eleanor said.

“Immensely.”

“You are supposed to be sensible.”

“I am. That is why I tied a good knot.”

“Nathaniel praised it.”

“I know.”

“You look pleased.”

“I enjoy professional recognition.”

“From him?”

Charlotte’s expression became innocent. “Would you prefer that only you receive his attention?”

“Charlotte!”

Her sister settled back down.

Nathaniel rode alongside a minute later.

Eleanor glared at him.

He looked startled. “What did I do?”

“Nothing.”

“That answer sounds dangerous.”

“Charlotte has developed a personality.”

“I thought she had one.”

“Not like this.”

Nathaniel nodded gravely. “Should I be concerned?”

“Yes.”

“More than usual?”

“Considerably.”

Charlotte called, “I can hear you.”

Eleanor called back, “Good.”

Nathaniel smiled. “I like your sisters.”