twenty-five
ALL THE ATTENTION Edith gave Perry spoiled him.
After his last attack, she hadn’t left his side, giving him tea and buttered scones, and making sure he was comfortable. He loved every second with her.
Sitting on the chair next to his bed, Oliver took notes. “At what time did the attack happen?”
“Around two o’clock.” Perry winced as he sat up, his muscles sore and aching.
“Do you want another pillow?” Edith asked.
He smiled, even though he was in pain. “No, thank you.”
“What did you feel the moment before the attack?” Oliver asked.
“I was worried about Edith and what her father had told her.” He still was.
“Worry.” Oliver cradled his chin. “Interesting. I have to check my diary and see how often you’ve been worried before an attack.”
“You don’t have to worry about me.” Edith patted his hand.
“I beg to differ. The whole situation involves me as well. And now you need a new professor.”
“I’m really sorry, Miss Winkworth,” Oliver said. “I’m not the type of doctor you need. But I’ll do everything I can to help you.”
“Thank you, Dr. York. You’re a godsend.”
Oliver blushed up to the roots of his hair. “Well, I have to consult my notes.” He left, muttering about worry and triggers.
“I need to talk to you,” Perry said once alone with her.
“I know what you’re thinking.” She puffed up his pillows. “I’m sorry for what my father said. He doesn’t know you. He jumped to conclusions.”
“I perfectly understand your father. You’re his daughter, and he wants to protect you. I’m not offended by his mistake. I wanted to talk to you about something else.”
Her eyes grew larger in alarm. “You’re worried about your reputation. It’s understandable. I’ve caused you nothing but trouble.”
“You and your father have the habit of jumping to conclusions and making assumptions. I was referring to finding an examiner for you. Sir James Harris, the queen’s physician.”
She narrowed her gaze. “He’s after the Star Maiden.”
“But he’s a doctor I personally know, and he’s a member of the London School of Medicine for Women’s board. Being associated with him will silence any gossip about you. I’ll send him a letter immediately.”
“Thank you, Perry.” She kissed his cheek, lingering.
“There’s something else.” He took a deep breath. “You know how I feel. You know I want to marry you and make you happy, but becoming a surgeon is your dream, and I can’t ask you to choose between marriage and your career. I’ll always support you, and I don’t care if we don’t get married. You’ll always be my only one.”
“I love you, Perry.” She hugged him. “I love you so much. I should’ve told you a while ago.”
He held her, kissing her cheek, neck, and lips. They fought over who gave more kisses to the other until she laughed and had to stop while he kept kissing her.
“It’s fear!” Oliver exclaimed, flinging the door open and causing Edith to gasp. “Fear is the trigger.” He waved a few pages of his notepad in the air.
Edith moved away from Perry.
“I analysed all the data, and the only common factor among Perry’s attacks is fear. When he gets scared, a seizure starts. Isn’t that wonderful?”
Fear. It could be.
