Page 44 of Beneath the Harvest Moon

After several trips back and forth, the trestle tables looked as though they might collapse beneath the weight of abundant food.

Mama set her fists on her hips. “I think we’ve done ourselves proud, my dears. No one can say we’re not generous with our harvest supper fare.”

“Indeed, not.” Blythe nodded. “There is enough food here to feed an army.”

Mama clapped her hands with a beaming smile. “Let us refresh ourselves before the festivities begin.”

Before the looking glass in her bedroom, Blythe pinched her cheeks, then headed to Jane’s room.

Jane sat in the rocking chair, knitting what appeared to be a tiny bonnet. “Oh, you look beautiful, Blythe.”

“You are very kind.” Blythe ran a hand down the shimmering sapphire silk. “Is it too grand for a harvest supper?”

“Definitely not.” Jane beamed.

“How do you feel?”

“The twinges have ceased. A rest is all I need.”

Blythe placed her hands on her hips. “You are not trying to placate me, are you?” She would not put it past Jane to hide her condition until the situation became desperate.

“Of course not.” Jane smirked. “You look just like your mam.”

Blythe dropped her hands with a huff of disgust.

Jane continued to giggle. “Enjoy the harvest supper. Perhaps you’ll be able to dance with Doctor Sharpe.”

“I doubt that.” The ache in her chest flared. He would never speak to her again, let alone ask her to dance.

The clicking of Jane’s needles ceased. “What do you mean? I could have sworn you had developed an attachment once again. Not that I believe it was ever broken. Don’t think I haven’t noticed him sneaking into the cowshed like he used to do when you were sweethearts.”

“You knew?”

Jane raised her dark brows in mock disapproval. “This room overlooks the cowshed.”

Blythe wandered to the window and stared at the building that evoked both affection and now sorrow. “I told him the truth.”

“Oh.”

Oh, indeed. The view beyond the diamond-paned windows blurred. “It was not meant to be. I have hurt him twice now, Jane, and I cannot expect his forgiveness.”

“He never asked me about you. Not that I would ever say anything, for it is not my place. Your mam swore us to secrecy, and you know I dare not risk her displeasure.”

Blythe turned on her heel. “Must I remind you that we agreed not to let my mama’s opinions dictate our actions?”

“That is easier said than done.”

“I agree, and I know it makes me a hypocrite, but I have told her I will return to York after Michaelmas.”

“I thought it was just the festivities that had made her so cheerful.” Jane dropped her knitting in her lap. “Must you go? It has been lovely to have you home again, and Violet seems so happy, as did you.”

Music drifted through the open window. Blythe seized the opportunity to leave. She would not burden Jane with her concerns. Despite the selfless woman’s protestations, her child would likely arrive before the night was out.

“I should go, but I will return every half hour to check on you.”

“There is no need. Enjoy yourself.”

Blythe snorted.