Two hours before, the table had been shrouded in a white cloth, the same as the six dining chairs, sideboard, and small bookcase. The window had been draped in black, as had the mirror above the mantel. When she’d thrown back the covers and let in the hazy dusk light, she had thrown back the final barrier protecting her heart. Time and again, she waited for the fear of what she and Matthew would do this evening to overcome her. Yet, nothing came but delicious anticipation and a hefty dose of guilt that she was prepared and shamefully willing to commit adultery. Jane squeezed her eyes shut. “May God and Elizabeth forgive me.” Inhaling a strengthening breath, she opened her eyes and walked out of the dining room toward the kitchen. She stirred the small pot of soup she’d made, allowing the smells of bubbling cream and tomatoes to fill the room. She then opened the stove door and pulled out a gently sizzling tray of roasting meat and potatoes. The meager meal was pitiful compared to the feasts Mrs.
