It was not yet dawn, but Elfleda Wodehead had already been awake for hours. The bread had been baked, the kitchen cleaned, and there would be nothing more to do until the sun rose. Even the chickens were sleeping. She wondered what she was supposed to do next.
She went back into the bedroom, where Egelric was sleeping soundly, and sat on the edge of the bed, her head in her hands. In the dim light that shone through the open door, she studied her feet. That gave her an idea.
“Egelric!” she said, shaking her husband awake.
“Wha-what?” he asked, jerking awake.
“Egelric, do you know those pretty heeled boots that the Duchess has?”
“Boots? What?” He seemed to remember her admiring those boots, but – what in God’s name was she waking him up for?
“Yes, those pretty black boots Duke Alred gave her. Do you know where he got them?”
“No. What do you want, Elfleda? I’m sleeping,” he said, turning over onto his side, his back to her.
“Do you remember that cobbler in town that made the fox-skin slippers? He made them.”
Egelric grunted.
“How much do you think he asks for boots like that?”
“I don’t know, Leda. Ask me in the morning.”
“It is morning. Now listen, you have those fox skins that the Duke gave you. Do you think he would take them for boots like Matilda’s?”
“I don’t know, Leda,” he whined. “What do you want with fancy boots?”
“Oh, Egelric, I don’t know,” she said, sighing. “I just can’t stop thinking about her boots. I would be so happy if I could have such pretty things.”
“She’s a fine lady, and we’re just common folk, Leda.”
“I know,” she said mournfuly, picking at the blanket. “I know I can’t have all of those lovely things she does, but I guess I could have just one pair of fine boots, couldn’t I, Egelric?” Her voice softened as she pleaded. “Then I would feel like a lady, too.”
Egelric was bewildered. Elfleda was always particular about her appearance, but she had never expressed an interest in finery before this day. He thought that she must truly be unwell, to be taken with such whims.
“Oh, Egelric, couldn’t you ride to town today and see if you could get me boots like hers?”
“Elfleda, I have work to do today.”
“Please? I so seldom ask you for anything.”
That was true enough. Indeed it would be the height of insolence for her to ask him for favors considering the way she treated him. And yet, her voice was gentle and she seemed in earnest. He supposed he was going to play her fool again, but he had begun considering her request. “I would have to start before sunrise if I want to make it back tonight,” he protested.
“The sun hasn’t risen yet.”
He sighed, but got up. Luckily the days were long.
Chapters
What is she up to?