Angel of Mercy

Chapter 40

Morning came all too quickly. They had set an early departure time to begin the journey to Leeds. The day was cloudy and overcast, Emma suspected snow was soon to come.

She did not sleep very much that night, wanting to savor the moments she had left in Ethan's arms and company. He did not sleep either; they alternated between talking and holding each other. Emma left the locket beneath her nightgown and Ethan held his head against her chest so he could feel where it rested.

When dawn broke Emma reluctantly got up.

"I promised Eleanor I'd speak to Nathan before I left." Emma explained as she pulled on her wrapper.

"More questions about my accident?" Ethan asked, stretching his arms above his head.

"No nothing about that. Eleanor wants me to find out how Nathan feels about her."

"Can't she tell?" Ethan asked sarcastically. 

Emma smiled, "Apparently not."

"I can't believe you're really going to leave today." he reflected, swinging his legs to the floor.

Emma walked to stand before him and took his face in his hands. "Please don't hate me for this."

"I don't hate you. I just wish things could be different."

"I know." she kissed his forehead, "I must get ready. I'll meet you at breakfast."

After Ethan left Eleanor arrived to help Emma dress. She wore a heavy gown to keep warm during the long day of traveling. It was lavender with a high neckline and black buttons.

Before heading to the stables, she passed Jeremiah who was watching after Daisy as she did her morning business. Emma stopped and petted the dog, murmuring how good she was and to look after her master. Daisy had completely healed from her injury and was an affectionate and gentle animal. Just what Ethan needed.

"I will look after her good Miss Rhodes." Jeremiah promised.

"I know you will. Keep up with your studies."

He nodded, "I like learning. Mr. Capshaw says, I'm doing well for having no schooling before."

"I'm glad. Take care of yourself Jeremiah."

"You too Miss Rhodes."

She gave Daisy one final pat then returned on her way. When Emma arrived at the stables, she found Nathan preparing the horses that were to pull the carriage.

"Nathan, I don't mean to intrude on your work, but do you have a moment?" Emma asked.

"Of course, Miss Rhodes. Is something amiss?" Nathan was dressed warmly as well in thicker breeches, a heavy brown coat and leather gloves. 

"No, everything is fine. I just wanted to ask. How do you feel about Eleanor?"

Nathan blushed.

"Do you see her as a sister?" Emma inquired. 

His blue eyes widened in surprise. "Of course not!"

"Might I suggest telling her that?"

"You mean ask her to go courting?" Nathan asked, scandalized.

"Yes, that's exactly what I mean." Emma confirmed.

"Are you sure she'll say yes?" he asked nervously.

"Aren't you?"

"I suppose so." he admitted reluctantly.