A scene from last night’s writing.
“What will you do with your windfall? Buy yourself something nice for a change.”
“Candles,” I said.
“Not a romantic bone in your body,” Mdm Marchand chastised.
“I have nothing but romantic bones, I’m afraid. Maybe I’ll consider a cup of chocolate. Would that be extravagant enough for you?”
“It would be a step in the right direction.” She leaned over and put a plump hand on my arm, light but concerned. “You work too hard,” she said. “I wish you would marry, let some man take care of you, at least take some of your work away.”
“Hmph,” I snorted softly. “Marriage gave you seven children. I’m sure you had time to relax, my good friend.”
“Your parents would not like to see you so alone, I am sure.”
“I am not alone. I have all of you.”
She patted my arm. “You are such a good girl. I would consider Dantes if I were you. His father swears he is a good catch”
I laughed out loud. “Certainly! If he becomes a Catalan and promises me to give up this life of the sea.”
“You could do worse.”
I remembered his smile. “I certainly could,” I said, trying to smile as enigmatically as I could. “But what good is a husband who is never home? That’s as much work as before.”
Mdm Marchand rolled her eyes. “Off with you! I despair for your well being.”
“Good day.” I wiped the small tears of laughter away from the corners of my eyes. She was a good soul, and I felt her friendship deep inside of my heart. Hmm, maybe I would take her advice and marry one of her sons. That might be exactly what she would find satisfactory.
The candles I settled on were beeswax. They would burn clean and fill my house with warmth. I could picture myself sitting by my table, spinning in the glow. Then I decided what to do with some of my extra money. I purchased a small bouquet of flowers for my aunt, chrysanthemums. For the rest of the family I bought a fancy powdered cake. I still had change for in my pouch. It had been a good day.
