Page 37 of Beneath the Harvest Moon

Mother’s jaw dropped. “Have you discussed this with her? Do you have an understanding?”

“No, I would not do so without warning you first. Which is why I am here. I want Blythe to be happy. I want her to find her purpose in life. And you can help her. I will not forsake this chance of fulfilling our childhood dreams. You and father cannot serve this village forever. You once believed Blythe would make an excellent midwife and healer, and, I must say, I am an excellent physician.”

“Indeed.” Father said from behind his paper.

“We will do as we have always planned. We will take over from you and provide medical care for the village and beyond.”

“Fine plans, boy, but you forget one thing. She has not agreed to any of this.”

“I will ask her once I have established that you will continue her training. Will you do it? If not for Blythe, then for me.”

Mother sighed. “You are asking me to forgive the girl who broke my son’s heart, the girl I looked upon as a daughter. Her rejection of my teaching hurt, but her rejection of you hurt more.”

“It would make me happy beyond measure if you would do this for us.”

Mother’s lips pursed as she stared into the waning fire. “I shall think on it. But please promise me you will be on your guard, my boy. She broke our trust, and it will be difficult for her to earn mine back.”

“What say you, Father?”

Father dropped his newspaper. “You’re a learned man, and no parent could be prouder than I. If this is what you wish, then I stand by your judgement. I always had a soft spot for Blythe. I think it’s that little smile and twinkle in her eye.” Father winked.

Mother tutted.

He blew out a long breath. Mother would come around. God willing, she would, because now that the prospect of marrying Blythe had been said out loud, he could not silence his desire. Nothing would stop him from making her his.

CHAPTER 14

Blythe kissed Elijah on the cheek. “Do you have everything?”

“Yes, Mama,” Elijah grumbled.

“Write once you arrive.”

“You know I will not, Mama—not straight away, at least. I will have far too much to do. This year I am a prefect.”

“Be kind to the younger boys.”

Elijah grinned. “I will boss them around as I was bossed around. It builds character.”

Blythe shook her head. “Take care on your journey.”

“I plan to read the books Doctor Sharpe has given me.”

“That was very kind of him.”

“Medicine is fascinating, and I think I shall study it at university.”

Blythe swallowed. “If that is what you wish, you will have my support.” Her insides quaked with dread at the prospect of telling Mrs Simmonds. “You have plenty of time to ensure that is what you want to do.” She pecked him on the cheek again.

“Mama!”

The back of her throat burned, but she held back her tears, if only to avoid embarrassing her son further. “You have become a fine young man, Elijah. I am very proud of you.”

“Thank you, Mama.” He smiled, and it was as though his father stood before her. “I shall try to write more frequently, and it will not be long until Christmas. Will you still be here then?”

“Yes. I think I shall remain.”

“Good. You are much happier here than in York, and it makes me happy to see you so.”