For the past month, Edith had been crowing about her proficiency behind the wheel, so much so that Matthew was beginning to seem quite fascinated. The way she told it, Branson had hardly taught her anything, as she was naturally gifted at driving. Robert had even given in and complimented her efforts, which merely inflated her ego to such a size that Mary's snide remarks on the unladylike behavior of driving oneself could not diminish it.
It was beginning to get on Mary's nerves. What was so special about controlling a mechanical carriage? She simply had to do something about it. She would have to learn how to drive and become even better at it than Edith, so that once more she would be the superior one in the family… and have Cousin Matthew's attention again.
She stormed out to the garage, scarf fluttering behind her, and burst through the doors, startling Tom from where he was poking at a car's underbelly with a wrench. She posed dramatically, waiting for him to acknowledge her.
"Yes?" He peered out from under the car.
"I need to speak with you." Mary said primly, clasping her hands together.
"Alright," Grabbing a rag, Tom stood up, swiping grease off his hands. "How can I help you, Lady Mary?"
"You've been teaching Edith how to drive." Mary stated.
"Well, not anymore. She thinks she's got the hang of it now." Tom nodded.
Mary raised an eyebrow. "Don't you agree with her assessment?" If Edith wasn't as good as she claimed, Mary could easily surpass her skill, and she would once more be the best at everything either of them attempted. She suppressed a cackle of glee.
"Not to be rude, but it's only luck she doesn't crash some days."
Yes! Mary exclaimed inwardly. Clearing her throat, she said "Thank you for being honest, Branson. I can sincerely promise not to claim my lessons are finished before you approve of my talents, if you like."
"Well, alright, if you really want to." Tom's voice sounded skeptical.
Mary raised an eyebrow. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"If you'll excuse me, my lady, your disparaging comments towards driving, not to mention myself, have not escaped me." Tom scowled.
"Perhaps I've changed my mind about cars. You'll have to change my perspective on your personality yourself." Mary declared, smirk twitching at her lips.
"You'll hear more than a few impassioned speeches before you're done learning everything about me." Tom said warningly.
"I'm sure I can survive." What am I doing? Letting the chauffer talk back to me! Gracious, I'm getting soft. She thought, tilting up her chin. "Now, what time tomorrow?"
Tom glanced over her appraisingly. "After you finish breakfast."
"I'll be here." Mary spun on her heel and sashayed away, leaving a surprised Tom in her wake.
Perhaps I underestimated her. He thought, turning back to the car. This is certainly going to be an experience.