My Dear Emma [Sherlock Holmes Romance]

Chapter Two

It was near nine o'clock when I awoke the next morning. Utter exhaustion was the current companion, however, the excitement of Thomas possibly making a call on my father gave me the energy I needed to freshen up for the day. When I came downstairs to the breakfast table, Papa was just waking as well, for he was not fully dressed yet.

"I am going to be late," he complained as he tried to fasten his waistcoat and eat at the same time.

"Forgive me," said Mrs. Jenkins, standing in the doorway. "There is a young gentleman here, Doctor."

Papa sighed and nodded. "Bring him in. Thank you, Mrs. Jenkins."

Mrs. Jenkins nodded and left to the other room. Mama entered from the opposite door, smiling at me as she sat at the table.

"Why don't you go freshen up?" she asked, pouring herself a cup of tea.

"Am I not already freshened up?" I asked, astonished that she did not notice. "Besides, there is no need."

I motioned to Thomas as he entered. He smiled, keeping his gaze on me as he bowed. Thomas wore a black coat, a plum-colored waistcoat, and black trousers. His hair was smoothed back; in his hands were his gloves and black bowler hat.

"Please forgive me for calling upon you at such an hour," Thomas said to my father. "I come with an invitation from my father. He wishes for you and your family to join us on holiday to the countryside."

"The countryside?" asked Mama, quite intrigued by the invitation. "John, I say, it would be fine to travel to the countryside."

It would indeed," I added, smiling at Thomas.

"It would only be for three days," Thomas went on, "my father is expected back Sunday evening."

"Oh, Papa! May we, please?"

Papa looked at me, then at Mama.

"I thought you did not favor the detective," he said, staring long at Mama.

"We may have conflict of interests," Mama replied, nodding. "But 'tis only three days, and a very generous offer. I should think it would be a good opportunity for Emma to be out and, to see the sights and make new acquaintances."

Papa looked at Thomas for a moment. Perhaps he saw him through a different perspective; however, in my view, I could see Thomas almost begging my father with his eyes.

"It could not hurt," said Papa slowly. "I do not have any patients after today. When is your father planning to leave?"

"By the ten o'clock train, Thursday morning," Thomas replied; his eyes were dancing with excitement. "There is a pair of good horses. Perhaps you may wish to bring something that you might ride them."

"Your father does not prefer horses," Papa raised an eyebrow. "I should know; I crossed into Germany from France with him, on horseback."

"It is true, my father does not like them, but I find horses rather diverting. They are my source of entertainment."

"Then we shall meet you at the train station," said Mama. "Please thank your father for the invitation."

Thomas smiled and nodded. "I shall do that, Mrs. Watson," he said, bowing. "Good day, Dr. Watson; Miss Emma."

I smiled as he followed Mrs. Jenkins out.

"Mary," said Papa, his expression was thoughtful. "Though I don't fully understand the current situation, I can see your handwriting all over it."

"Why should you say such a thing?" Mama asked; she stood abruptly, but I could see that she had not intended to.

"I merely imply that in your determination to secure our daughter's future, you have created the most brilliant plan. What I don't understand is why you have chosen to involve the very man you wished I never work with again."