“Very true,” Bess agreed. She had been twenty-three when she had wed, though she had been carrying on an affair with her future husband since she was twenty-one. Most of her friends who had married very young were unhappy. They had thought they were in love, but as they matured, they realized they had nothing in common with their spouses. “I would like to meet her if she wishes to visit the shop.” If she knew more about the young woman, she and William might be able to come up with a man who would be compatible with her.

“It sounds like he would be perfect for the job. William should be home soon. Send him by and we’ll talk to him. He won’t be able to start right away as we need to renovate the upstairs rooms.”

Bess scooped the rest of the rings into her hand and smiled at Aslan. “Real gold does bend and scratch easily. You’d be surprised how many people don’t know that.” She chuckled. “But that works in our favor as we repair jewelry too. Do you mind waiting a few minutes while I examine these more closely?”