Page 79 of A Winter By the Sea
Charles looked pointedly at the man still holding her arm.
Mr. Marsh released her, explaining, “She has injured her hand. I was trying to persuade her to see someone about it.”
Again Emily began to protest, “I don’t think that is—”
“I agree.” Charles spoke over her demur. “Mr....?”
“John Marsh, at your service.” He bowed and gestured toward the library windows, with their displays of books, prints, and gifts. “This is my establishment.” He turned back to Charles and ran a speculative gaze over his fine attire and aristocratic mien. “And you are ...?”
“Oh.” Emily spoke up. “This is Mr. Parker. A family friend. He and his parents are here visiting.”
“Ah.”
“Thank you for coming to Miss Summers’s aid,” Charlessaid politely. “I would be happy to escort her wherever she needs to go.”
Mr. Marsh touched a hand to his chest. “That would be most appreciated. And as you are old friends, I have no qualms about leaving Miss Summers in your care. In fact, you are a godsend, sir. As I really should not leave my library unattended, and it is my clerk’s half day.”
Charles nodded and offered Emily his elbow. She tucked the portfolio under her arm and placed her good hand on his sleeve. As they walked away, Charles asked, “Does your hand hurt? Tell me honestly.”
She sighed. “Yes. And my wrist is throbbing.”
“Then come,” he said warmly. “Let’s get you taken care of.”
———
An hour later they returned to Sea View, Emily’s hand and wrist wrapped tight. Charles insisted on seeing her safely home.
As they approached the door, he said, “By the way, I know it is not my place, but do you not worry about strangers staying here? After all, you are ladies without a man’s protection.”
“Not at all. We have Lowen and Mr. Gwilt.”
As if on cue, Mr. Gwilt opened the door to them, took their coats, and fussed over her injury. He led the way into the parlour, where her mother sat sewing in her usual chair.
Mamma glanced up and her eyes widened in alarm. “Emily, oh no! What happened?”
“I fell on the ice. Don’t worry, it isn’t broken, only sprained. We stopped at Dr. Clarke’s office to be sure. He said I should keep it wrapped for a few days, however.”
“That is a relief.”
“Yes,” Emily agreed, though inwardly, she lamented the accident. How was she to write with her hand like this? And if she could not write, how would she meet Mr. Marsh’s deadline?
Mamma looked up at Charles. “Thank you so much for bringing her home.”
He dipped his head. “My pleasure. I am glad I came upon her when I did.”
“Why do you not join us for dinner?” Mamma said. “It is the least we can do.”
“I would enjoy nothing more, but I’m afraid my parents are expecting me.”
“Send them a note. I am sure Mr. Gwilt would deliver it to their hotel.”
Robert Gwilt nodded eagerly. “That I would, madame. Happy to do it.”
Charles hesitated. “Are you certain it would not be too much trouble to add to your number at such short notice?”
“Not at all. In fact, Mr. Thomson was asked to dine at Fortfield Terrace tonight, so he shan’t be joining us. We won’t even have to set an extra place.”
“In that case, I gratefully accept. It will be like old times.”
