| “Yes, I spoke to him. His name is Owen. He seems nice.” “Is he handsome?” “I suppose so. I saw Lila and Sarah gawking at him from the street corner.” “Those two are terrible. They are going to try everything in their power to make a husband out of that man and if it doesn’t work they’ll crawl back to Gabriel.” “I don’t trust them. They are too, I don’t know, aggressive. I hope they don’t scare him away. We need the money.” “Do you know where he’s from?” “I can’t be sure. He used this strange currency to pay for his stay. It’s real gold though, so I let him use it to pay. Gabriel was none too happy though.” “Gabriel is only worried he will lose Lila’s favor to this Owen person.” “That is true.” Isabella laughed. “Well, get a move on. He will be up here in a matter of moments.” As if on cue, Owen walked in. He smiled graciously to the two women and bowed his head slightly. “Hello, ladies.” He looked at Isabella a little longer than he did the mother. “Hello, Mr.—“ the mother halted. “Just call me Owen. I thought Ms. Isabella told you.” “She did but I thought it inappropriate to call you by first name. But if you insist that is exactly what I shall do.” “Good because I do insist.” He smiled. “Well, I hope you enjoy your stay here. If you need anything at all just call Isabella or me. My husband doesn’t attend to guests and, well, I don’t think Gabriel would appreciate it if you asked him anything.” “I don’t think so either.” He laughed. “Not to worry, I am honored to be in the care of two such lovely ladies.” He bowed and smiled. “Oh, Owen. You flatter me so.” Isabella’s mother giggled and Isabella turned her head and rolled her eyes. “Mother, if it’s alright, I think I’m going to take a walk.” Isabella cut in. “Yes, of course. We can’t have you inside all day. Go ahead.” Isabella merely nodded to the two of them and walked out, her blue linen dress billowing behind her. “I shall leave you in privacy, Owen. Enjoy your stay.” She too left. Owen closed the door and sat down. He thought about everything that happened since his coming to this tiny little fishing village. He couldn’t even remember the name. He will have to ask that woman, or even better, Isabella. He smiled as he thought of her. She seemed different to him. None of his flattery seemed to have any effect on her. |