Here is the tale of Elida Cabot. Seeking the short stories? Venture here! Seeking the Chronicles of Lottie Hamilton? Find those here.
Lottie has been invited to tea with her stepmother… well, more like a demand than an invitation. While in the crow’s nest thinking things through, Mullen lent an ear to let her know she wasn’t alone.
“Really Charlotte, if you are going to come to tea, I wish you would dress appropriately.”
“It’s nice to see you too, stepmother.”
“What’s she doing here?”
“Ah Melvina, my dearest sister. Pray tell me how your health is today.”
Petronilla giggled a bit behind her fan.
“Now Melvina, is that a way to greet your sister?”
“Stepsister,” she spat.
Magritte stared her daughter into silence.
“Greetings, Charlotte.”
Petronilla stepped forward to air kiss her on both cheeks.
“I am glad you could join us today. Would you care to join us? Tea is ready.”
“Thank you.”
She took Petronilla by the crook of the arm and they moved towards the table set for tea by the picture windows looking out over the sky and ocean. Sitting Petronilla began to pour the tea while Magritte and Melvina joined them at the table. Clearing her throat gently, but clearly, Petronilla immediately poured a cup for her mother and then put the pot down. Melvina glared at her sister in an attempt to force her to pour a cup, but Petronilla ignored her, leaving Melvina to take matters into her own hands.
“As our guest, would you like something to eat?”
“Oh, thank you, but no. I did eat a hearty meal before everyone boarded. Had I known you would be joining us on this voyage, I would have skipped the meal.”
The two sat and chatted together as if they were old friends until, finally, Magritte broke in.
“Charlotte, I appreciate you not wearing your work clothes. Thank you. Of course, perhaps we should find some new outfits for you that are more appropriate to a young woman of your station.”
