Michael JECKS - The Devil's Acolyte

‘Aye, an’ you’re a good woman. Come here, lass, give us a kiss.’

She dutifully gave him a peck on the cheek.

‘Nay, come on, make it a real one.’

‘I don’t have time.’

‘Course you do. An’ if you play your cards right, you can have me body as well.’

She clipped him round the ear. ‘Later, maybe.’

‘Ah, might be too late by then. You don’t know what you’re missing!’ he called as she left the shop.

She was a great woman, he reckoned. Sara would get all the support she needed from Cissy, and so would Emma. Poor woman was almost distraught about her husband, but she’d knuckle down soon enough. She had to, with all her kids. And although she had a few bob now, that wouldn’t last for ever. Nob shrugged. Someone else who’d have to come and get free pies. He wouldn’t let anyone’s children suffer.

He wondered about Sara’s claim on Joce. At least he might be able to help there… Even if the wedding wasn’t official, hadn’t been held at the church door, Sara still had a claim. Nob could bear witness to that. Joce had no family, did he?

It was a little later, into the forenoon, that a clerk appeared in the doorway.

‘Quick, a beef pie! I am due in the Abbot’s court.’

‘Master, I have one almost ready for you,’ said Nob calmly. ‘And I might be able to let you have it for a discount.’

‘Discount?’ The clerk’s eyes sharpened. ‘That sounds expensive.’

‘It could prove a nice little earner for a good master-at-law,’ Nob said dreamily. ‘Helping a wealthy widow. A young, attractive, blonde , wealthy widow.’

The clerk leaned upon the counter. ‘Tell me more…’ he invited.