Anne swallowed. “She is well. Married to a kindly rector.”
“I am glad.” He shifted his knapsack, then asked, “And will you be in Painswick long?”
“I’m not certain yet. What about you? How long can they spare you this time?”
He shifted again. “Let’s not talk about all that. Let’s enjoy our time while we can. You’re here visiting Miss Newland, I suppose?”
“I was, yes, but—”
“I do hope I shall see more of you while you’re here.”
Anne replied, “And I hope you don’t wish those words back when you learn that I am staying in Painswick Court for the present.”
His brows rose. “What?”
“Dr. Marsland asked me to take on the role of sickroom nurse during your aunt’s current illness. So unless she rallies quickly or he finds someone more experienced, I shall be doing what I can to help her for a fortnight or so.”
“Good heavens. Not that I disapprove, but ... well, I am surprised you would be willing, after what happened with your sister.”
“And I was surprised Lady Celia did not refuse to have me for the same reason.”
“Probably doesn’t know.”
Anne huffed. “Doesn’t know!”
“Or perhaps I should say, doesn’t remember.”
Indignation flashed. “Because she has forbidden so many matches?”
“No, that’s not what I meant. Look, it’s been some time. And Jude has married since then, among other things. A lot has happened.”
Anne slowly shook her head, thoughts churning. If only her sister could forget as easily as Mr. Dalby and Lady Celia apparently had.
A few moments of awkward silence followed.
“Yes,” Anne said at last. “A lot has happened. Well, I am headed back there now, so...”
“Shall we walk together?” Colonel Paine offered his arm.
She hesitated only a moment before taking it. “Thank you.”
As they passed through the churchyard door and through the trees, Dr. Finch came striding up St. Mary’s Street and onto Painswick Court’s gravel drive.
He looked from her to the handsome officer with interest. Anne immediately felt self-conscious and released Jasper’s arm. A nurse should not be too familiar with one of the family, she knew. She said, “Dr. Finch, have you met Lady Celia’s nephew?”
The doctor’s expression darkened and his nostrils flared. Or was she imagining it?
Uncertain, she went on, “Colonel Paine, this is Dr. Finch, one of your aunt’s physicians, new to Painswick, I believe, since you were last here.”
Jasper nodded. “Dr. Finch.”
Whatever she thought she’d seen in the physician’s expression evaporated, and he said pleasantly, “Ah. Colonel Paine, yes. I’ve heard your aunt mention you. Miss Fitzjohn speaks of you fondly as well.”
“And how is my aunt?” Jasper asked. “I would have come sooner, but I had some ... official matters to attend to.”
Ernest Finch lifted his chin in understanding. “Her heart is weak. Dr. Marsland is treating her for dropsy. But I should let him give you the particulars.” He glanced toward the house. “Well, I had better hurry in. I was expected half an hour ago. Good day, Colonel. Miss Loveday.”
He gave a short bow and let himself in through the side door.
