He waited until the older woman brought over two plates.
“Agnes, I’d like you to meet Eve.”
Eve stared down at her lap, unable to look the older woman.
“Baby, look up. There’s no reason to be afraid of her.”
“She won’t like me,” she whispered to Patrick.
“I already like you, child. Anyone that brings a smile to this boy’s face is a good person in my book.”
Eve’s head snapped up, and her mouth dropped open.
He could tell Agnes was going to take to the girl right away. She had a soft spot for little ones who needed extra love.
“I’m delighted to meet you, Eve.”
“I … I’m glad to meet you, too, ma’am.”
“You’ll call me Agnes.”
Eve nodded and tried to smile.
“Do you know how to bake, child?”
Eve sat up straight. “I … yes. It’s been a while. Not since my mom was alive, but I know I enjoy it.”
“Good. Maybe you could help me out sometimes. I’m a superb cook, but I can’t bake to save me.”
“I would be happy to. Any time,” she said eagerly.
Agnes nodded. “Good. Now eat before it gets cold.”
The cook was halfway across the room when Eve asked what was on her plate. From the way Agnes paused, she’d heard it also, and he knew her heart went out to the girl even more.
“It’s French toast, baby. Haven’t you ever had it?” Patrick asked.
“No. I was only allowed one egg and one piece of toast for breakfast.”
Patrick’s hand fisted in his lap as anger raced through him.
“Well, here, you’ll have all sorts of things. Tell Agnes or me if there’s anything you don’t like.”
“Oh, I’m sure I’ll like everything.”
He glanced at Agnes and grinned as he looked down at Eve.
“There are several things I won’t eat,” Patrick informed her.
“Really? What?”
“Cooked spinach, tuna, peas…”
She grinned. “I don’t like peas,” she admitted. “I had to eat them every night of my life.”
“You’ll never see a pea in this household, child,” Agnes spoke up.
She nodded and took a bite of the toast that was covered in syrup. “Mmmm, this is so good.”