Page 8 of Scarlett

The family owed her nothing and yet the kindness of the woman before her had ensured she’d had a home and anything needed for the past year.

Scarlett covered the woman’s hand with hers. “I am so very grateful that you gave me the opportunity to get to know my father. You are a gracious and kind woman. Please don’t worry about me. I will be fine.” Straightening her shoulders, Scarlett smiled at the woman. “Now, you must get some rest.”

Once inside her temporary bedroom, Scarlett went to the window and peered out to a view of the street. Where would she go? If the sale of the house was complete, it would only be a matter of weeks before she would be without a place to live.

* * *

As usual, Lady Price’s maid Bettina greeted Scarlett at the door. “Good day to you. Lady Price awaits you in the sitting room.”

The maid didn’t escort her as she knew the way and Scarlett was glad for it. She so enjoyed the privilege of studying in the opulent home. Getting to know Lady Price was a blessing she’d never have had if not for her father.

Although it was obvious a wealthy person lived in the beautiful house, it was not an uncomfortable home. Instead, every room felt inviting and soothing.

The front parlor was her favorite. Oil paintings depicting floral still life art adorned the walls, each one breathtakingly beautiful.

“Scarlett, how are you today?” Lady Price appeared through a doorway in a pastel green gown. “I see you like that particular floral one the best. I always find you studying it.”

“I do. It’s so vivid.” Scarlett glanced to her friend before looking back up at the painting.

Lady Price came to stand beside her. “It’s my favorite as well. The artist lives in Italy, as so many of the great ones do.”

As they made their way to the parlor, Lady Price looked to Scarlett. “Has it been decided what you’re going to do now? Will you remain with your stepmother?”

Scarlett informed her of the conversation with her stepmother, glad to have someone to talk to. “If you happen to know of someone who has an apartment to rent, I will be searching. Since I don’t know the area very well, I hope to ask for your help. Perhaps Bettina knows of an affordable place.”

“Don’t you worry,” Lady Price told her. “You are more than welcome to stay here until we help find you a suitable place to live.”

“Oh no!” Scarlett’s eyes widened and her hands fluttered up to cover her mouth. “I could never infringe on your friendship in such a way. I am about to cry because of your kindness.” She sniffed and wiped an errant tear. “I will be fine.”

Lady Price waited until they settled into chairs and tea was poured before saying anything else. “You will not be fine and we both know it. The amount you were left is barely enough to live comfortably for a few months at the most after paying for rent.”

It was the truth and it being said out loud made her tremble. “I will find work. I can sew and tutors are always needed.”

“There is another option.”

* * *

For two weeksnow Scarlett had been at Lady Price’s house and that morning she perused the newspaper with a pen in hand searching for an efficiency to rent. Although her gracious hostess would never ask her to leave until she was situated, Scarlett was not about to take advantage of Lady Price’s hospitality.

The kitchen was warm as they baked a ham for dinner. On the kitchen table, dough rested under a towel.

Scarlett had made it a habit to come to the kitchen and help out. It made her feel better to do something to repay Lady Price’s generosity.

“I’m going to take the mistress some tea,” Bettina announced walking in only to stop when seeing only Scarlett was in the room. “Where’s Nettie?” she asked, referring to the cook.

Scarlett stood and went to the stove to move the teakettle onto the burner. “She went to the market, should be back momentarily.”

“Ah well.” Bettina went to a cupboard and retrieved a pretty tray. Petit roses were etched on the edges and the handles were intricately carved. “I suppose there are no sweet biscuits about are there?”

It was hard not to laugh recalling Bettina had eaten the last few. “No, which is why Nettie went to the market. She plans to stop at the bakery and purchase some.”

“Very good then.” Bettina set two cups and saucers on the tray. Next she sliced leftover bread in small squares, toasted them lightly and drizzled berry jam over them. “This will do.”

As Scarlett poured the heated water into a floral teapot, Bettina sat and lifted her feet. “I’m going to soak my poor sore feet tonight.”

“Stay and rest,” Scarlett instructed. “I will take the tea.”

Bettina shook her head. “No Miss will not. Lady Price insists you are not a housemaid and doesn’t wish to allow you to do more than help Nettie for a bit in the afternoons.”