“In a way. But I’ll explain tomorrow.”
After that, Jasper insisted on walking Anne back to Yew Cottage.
As they strolled across the churchyard, he said, “I wanted to tell you. Aunt Celia was very generous to me in her will—far more than I expected. With the inheritance and the sale of my commission, it seems I may be able to marry for affection after all.”
“Oh.” A moment of uneasiness pinched Anne’s stomach. “I am ... glad for you.”
“Don’t worry. You know I like you a great deal, but I am well aware another man has gained your affection.”
Anne’s face heated. “Well ... perhaps.”
“I wish you happy, Anne. I truly do. One day, I hope, I shall find someone too.”
Anne considered, then said, “You mentioned missing Rosa Stark, as well as me and your aunt. Perhaps you might pay a call on Rosa one day soon?”
He looked at her, brows high. “I admit that thought has crossed my mind. Do you think it would be a good idea?”
“I do.”Good heavens, Anne thought. Was she matchmaking now? She was becoming as bad as Nancy! “Although not tomorrow. Katherine and I are calling then. Has she ... said anything about Rosa?”
“To me? No. Too busy sharing lovelorn grins with Albert.”
Anne laughed. “As well she should.”
“I agree. Long overdue, I gather. I am happy for them both.”
“So am I.”
The next day, Katherine and Anne walked to Valley View Lodge together.
“I’m nervous,” Katherine admitted.
“Why? What do you intend to do?”
Katherine eyed her in concern. “What do you mean? Why do you ask it like that?”
“Well, I know Dr. Finch was not eager for Mr. Dalby to learn about the child and perhaps interfere in his life somehow. And not in the traditional, marriage sort of way.”
“Good heavens, Anne. I have no diabolical plans, I assure you. I wish to meet the child and to ... pass along some news. Good news, I hope.”
They arrived at the house and were met by a surprised Mrs. Tufley. “Gracious me! Good day, Miss Fitzjohn, Miss Loveday. Do come in. I’ll let the doctor know you’re here.”
“Thank you.”
She led them into a small, sunny room. “Come and sit here in the parlour. They’re out in the back garden.”
They sat down to wait, and a few moments later, Dr. Finch entered. “This is a pleasant surprise.”
Anne said, “Miss Fitzjohn would like to meet Robbie, if that’s all right.”
“Uh, y-yes. That is, let me just ask Ros—”
Rosa entered the room while her name was still on his lips. In her arms, she held her darling child with fair hair, round rosy cheeks, and blue eyes—eyes that looked almost green in the sunlight.
“Oh, Miss Fitzjohn. Anne. Welcome. This is my Robbie.”
Katherine swallowed, then asked, “May I hold him a moment?”
“Of course.” Rosa handed him over. “Always a risk, mind. But I changed him a few minutes ago, so you might be safe.”
