“My lady? Are you awake?” Naomi extended her arms and legs in a languorous stretch and opened her eyes. Brenna stood beside the bed, arranging a tray with Naomi’s chocolate and toast. A small parcel beside the cup caught her notice. “What’s that?” she inquired in a sleepy voice. The maid handed her the rectangular item. “From his lordship. He wanted you to have it first thing.” The plain, white-paper wrapping gave no clue to its contents. She gave it a gentle shake. A soft rattle inside intrigued her. “Thank you,” Naomi said. After Brenna left, Naomi untied the bit of twine holding the paper closed, revealing a small box. She opened it and found a note. Clara told me what you did at dinner last night. Thank you. Please enjoy these with my compliments. Do not leave your bed until you have eaten each one. If you’re still interested, I’d like to show you the parts of my home I enjoy.
