“Would you like me to read you a book?” I ask, thinking of Elinor’s father reading to her.
“Why would I want that?”
“I thought it might be something we could enjoy together.”
“No thank you, dear.” She lays back down. “But... I do likeThe Daily Mail. You could read that to me. It could be entertaining.”
And it is. Surprisingly so. My mom’s running commentary about each celebrity has me in stitches. It might not be Wodehouse, but it’s good fun, and I don’t think I’ve ever laughed so much with my mom.
When I leave, she says, “Next time, you bring that girl of yours. I want to meet her.”
“Don’t get your hopes up.”
She pats my cheeks. “There’s not a woman on earth who can resist that smile.”
***
I reach my townhouse long after dark.I’m tired, but surprisingly hopeful. On a hunch, I called Brandon on the drive. We ended up having a long conversation—one that leaves me with a lot to think about.
Meowing a whole litany of complaints, Mrs. Peacock greetsme. She rubs against my legs, shedding long gray fur on my best linen trousers. As I reach down to meet her demands, I spy a note that must have been put through the mail slot. I snatch it up. I recognize Elinor’s handwriting. There’s no stamp, and mail isn’t delivered on Sunday. She must have delivered it herself—Elinor was here at my house. I can’t believe I missed her. I tear open the card. It’s not long, but it’s enough.
Dear Edward,
I take it all back. Whatever this is between us, it is absolutely worth pursuing.
Also, I love you.
Yours,
Elinor
And you, ye well-known trees! —Sense and Sensibility
27
Elinor
Pepper runs into the cafe, breathless. “Elinor, we need you—now!”
My immediate thought is that Annie and Pepper are up to some more matchmaker shenanigans, and I really don’t have time for this.
“Can this wait five minutes? I’m just a few minutes from the end of my shift.
“No! It’s a tragedy! Annie needs you.”
“Where’s your dad?”
“He’s with Annie! He won’t leave her.” Panic jolts me.
“Okay! I’m on my way!” I run to tell Lois that an emergency came up and follow Pepper with my apron still on.
“Where to!”
“Lady Whimple?”
“Did Annie fall out of the tree?”
“Not exactly!”
