10 July 2012
I met my father in the library along with the guests. I made their acquaintance and listened to their tedious conversations of business and foolish gossip. Everyone couldn't seem to get enough of my father. He was engulfed in a sea of admirers. My father, Mr. Grey, is the most well respected banker in all of the state. Without his income me and my family would not be living at Somerset Manor. Somerset is our grand polished white rocked mansion, covered in lush tangled green vines, suffocating the outside walls. The windows are repetitive throughout the mansion, all squared and boxy. The front yard is covered in lavish greenery ranging from glorious morning glories and powdered pink amaryllis. Off to the side of the manor, a dark blue pond is located, that also comes with a charming brown wooden bridge. A thick black iron gate protects the manor like a respectful soldier guarding his king.
Then Mr. Bligh, one of my fathers recent business partners, bumped into my left side while I was in my own fool's paradise.
"I'm very sorry my dear, you know how clumsy I get after a few of your fathers cocktails?" Mr. Bligh apologized.
But he was right. He does get pretty clumsy after receiving a few of my dads cocktails. The way he talked, he slurred, which made it easier to understand that he was a bit tipsy. I smiled and said,"I know Mr. Bligh, I warned my father to keep the cocktails from your sight, but it seems that he didn't listen."
Mr. Bligh laughed and wrapped his thick arm around me, hovering over my shoulders.
"So Effy, since you have now reached an appropriate age, I am eligible to ask if you have found a suitable gentleman for marriage?" Mr. Bligh asked, leaning on me drunkly.
I bit on my tongue a little and contemplated his question as long as possible. My father taught me to think clearly and deeply when asked such questions. So I did.
I cleared my throat with a little cough and answered," No sir, Mr. Bligh. But I have thought of the subject and I promise you it is nothing to concern you or anyone else of. "
He looked at me as if he was having trouble finding words to say back to me. But instead of waiting to hear what he had to say, I smiled and excused myself from his presence.
I stepped outside for some fresh April air to clear my head. I walked to the dark blue pond hidden in the mass of trees in front of Somerset. Along my journey to the pond, I brushed the rough aged bark of several old trees that I climbed when I was 9. Gliding my hands graciously through the rough bark edges, brought back the foggy memories. When it was me and Luke. I like the sound of that, Me and Luke. Oh how I would do anything to be able to hold his generous hands, or kiss his soft candied lips. If only I could.
Chapter Two • Opuss № I