Page 73 of Presage and Piracy
“And I am Miss Edith Bartlett.” A tall, dark-skinned woman with enchanting eyes flashed her a grin.
Heather smiled at the three women. “I am so pleased to make your acquaintance.”
“Edith is also an apothecary,” Grace said from her position at the table’s head.
Anticipation zipped up Heather’s spine, and her eyebrows shot up as she gazed with interest at the woman. “Are you, indeed? Do let’s be seated. I believe that you and I will have a great deal to discuss.”
Tableware clinked,and a steady hum of voices surrounded Percy as they broke their fast. He was both relieved and glad to have returned home, and to have married the woman he’d come to love so dearly. His stomach gave a familiar happy wobble, and he hid a grin. He’d never known joy such as this.
Heather was remarkable. His gaze slid across the table to where she sat in deep conversation with Miss Edith Bartlett, no doubt discussing her abundance of plants and what they could do for the apothecary.
Pride swept over him. He could scarcely wait to see what their future held and what adventures they would have as she took on new clients. Life with Heather would never be dull.
Percy sipped on his coffee, relishing the earthy burn that stole down his throat.
“What—” Miss Huntsbury dropped her fork to the table as a maid raced in.
“Beggin’ your pardon, but there’s a woman ’ere wot says she needs ’elp.”
She gestured behind her, and a petite woman with dark brown hair and red-rimmed hazel eyes entered.
“I’m ever so sorry to interrupt your morning meal. I can return?—”
“Nonsense.” Miss Huntsbury stood and helped the woman to her seat. “How can we help you?”
The woman dabbed at her reddened nose with a kerchief, her gaze hesitant as she took in the room. “Erm…” She straightened her shoulders and began again. “I need your help. My haberdashery is being threatened by the gentleman owner of the bookstore next door to my shop. And a notice came ’round this morning stating that I had all but eight-and-forty hours to vacate or I would be sent to gaol.” Her eyes welled up with tears. “Please. Please help me.”
Miss Huntsbury’s lips thinned as she faced the women at the table. “Come, ladies. We have work to accomplish.”
