“Truly?
“Helena, like anything in life, there are no guarantees, but evidently the young man expressed an interest to Thomas at some point and now Thomas believes we should give him a chance.”
“Then why does Thomas not ask him?”
George leaned in as though he was to impart a great secret. “Apparently, Thomas and Jenny developed feelings for each other, and now that Thomas is courting Lady Alderman, he feels he must leave the task to me.”
Helena nodded. “So, hehasadmitted having feelings for her?”
“Apparently. In any case, he wants me to ask the lad.”
“And you are consulting me, why?”
“I am not quite certain how to go about this. Should I ask him directly? Should I speak first to his parents? Or maybe I should ask Jenny? You know the family so well—I thought you might be able to advise me.”
“Hmm,” Helena said, as she considered what might be the best approach.
“Of course, if you think we are on the wrong track altogether, then I should like to know that as well.”
“You know what? Perhaps it would be better to sound out Jenny first. She will know the best way to approach this if she thinks this will suit him.”
“But do you think Jenny might be hurt if her brother was to work for Thomas when she was unable to? I know it was her big dream to be a pastry cook in a great house.”
“I think Jenny is magnanimous enough to not stand in her brother’s way if she believes it will benefit him. Although, I cannot say it will not hurt her at some level.” She thought for a moment then asked, “Are you planning to go over there now?”
“That is my plan.”
“They should be finished at the bakery shortly. Let us have tea first. Then would you like me to accompany you?”
“What would that accomplish?” he asked.
“In case Jenny should need my support. I am not saying she will, but I would like to be available to her should she need me.”
“If you like. I came in the trap, so you will not need your horse.”
* * *
The bakery was already closed when the trap pulled up in front of the bakery.
Helena said, “Sometimes Jenny lingers in the bakery after they close the shop. Let us go in the back way and see if she is still there.”
“I will secure the horse and join you,” George said jumping off the trap and helping Helena down.
Helena found the back door open and she went inside and called out, “Jenny? Jenny, are you still here?”
“Over here, Helena,” she answered. “I am wiping down the pastry table.”
Helena went over to Jenny and put her arm around her shoulder. “How lovely to see you. How have you been holding up?”
Jenny gave her a weak smile. “Well enough. What brings you here today? Shopping?”
“No.”
“Are you in there?” George called out.
“Over here,” Helena replied.
“George is with you?”
