Bess stood up from her seat at the worktable and stretched, having just finished repairing the necklace that the shop girl had broken when she tried it on. She had been fired on the spot and now there was a sign on the door announcing that they were looking for help. Until a new employee was found, Bess was tending the shop alone as well as assembling new pieces in the backroom workshop. William usually took care of the store, but he was currently away overseeing the construction of his new store in London. “Clairies,’ as the upper class had dubbed their jewelry, were more in demand than ever and it was past time to expand.

Deciding to get a bit of fresh air before starting a new task, Bess left the workroom and walked through the shop. She could see herself reflected in the glass of a display case. Her rounded belly was becoming more noticeable now and she smiled softly. This pregnancy had been a surprise to both her husband and herself, but a very welcome one. She hoped that she would have a daughter this time.

The bell above the door tinkled as she stepped outside. The gentle spring breeze wafted over her and Bess stretched again, enjoying the warmth of the sun and the salty scent of the air.